UKSTT Successfully Concludes Annual General Meeting with Leadership Appointments and Strategic Council Expansion
Trenchless technology society strengthens governance structure and confirms officer positions for continued industry advancement
KENILWORTH, WARWICKSHIRE – The UK Society for Trenchless Technology (UKSTT) held its Annual General Meeting on Thursday, 9th October 2025, at Camden House in Kenilworth, marking a significant milestone in the organisation’s continued growth and development within the trenchless technology sector.
Chair Graham Howard welcomed attendees and presented a comprehensive review highlighting UKSTT’s successful events throughout 2025, whilst outlining ambitious plans for 2026, including the highly anticipated 3rd Annual Trenchless Conference at the Manufacturing Technology Centre in Coventry. The society continues its collaborative work with industry patrons to promote trenchless technologies across the sector.
Key leadership appointments were confirmed during the meeting, with Graham Howard entering his second term as Chair. The following honorary officers were appointed for a further one-year term: Tim Sargent as Vice Chair, Claire Gowdy as Secretary, and Leon Woods as Treasurer. Tim Sargent delivered the Treasurer’s report on behalf of the finance committee, with the 2024 audited accounts made available for member review.
In a strategic move to accommodate increased society activity, the council agreed to expand the maximum number of council members from 20 to 25.
Dawn Greig, Leon Woods, Iain Naismith, Jim Albarella, and Andy Gundry were successfully re-elected after completing their terms, whilst Fran Thums, who was co-opted earlier in the year, secured election to the council.
Additional nominations from Richard Swan, Andrew Sapnik, Paul Cleaver, and Dean Morgan will be processed following approval of amended articles currently being finalised with solicitors and awaiting Charity Commission consent. An Extraordinary General Meeting will be called to complete these appointments.
“This AGM represents another important step forward for UKSTT as we strengthen our governance structure to support our expanding activities,” said Chair Graham Howard. “The dedication of our council members and officers ensures we can continue delivering value to our members whilst advancing trenchless technology adoption across the industry.”
The meeting, which commenced at 10:00am and concluded at 10:23am, also recognised the contributions of departing members. Chair Howard expressed gratitude to Jo Parker, who stepped down from her Special Advisor position, acknowledging her invaluable support, experience, and guidance over the years. Thanks were also extended to Jill Tickle for her service to the organisation.
About UKSTT The UK Society for Trenchless Technology is the leading professional body dedicated to advancing trenchless technology solutions across the United Kingdom. Working closely with industry patrons and stakeholders, UKSTT promotes innovation, best practices, and professional development within the trenchless technology sector through conferences, training programmes, and industry collaboration initiatives.
For more information about UKSTT membership and upcoming events, visit www.ukstt.org.uk