How to Submit a Winning Entry for the ICoTA Future of Energy Excellence Award

The opportunity is clear: £1994, industry recognition, and invaluable networking - but how do you craft an entry that stands out?

Awards
read time
Written by
Suzanne Robertson on behalf of the Young Professionals and Technical Committee
Published on
September 18, 2025

The opportunity is clear: £1994, industry recognition, and invaluable networking - but how do you craft an entry that stands out?

As Cameron Anderson-Smith from Oilenco, our 2024 winner, discovered, the benefits extend far beyond the prize money. "It gave me a real sense of encouragement and recognition at this stage in my career," he reflects. "Beyond the win itself, the event provided a chance to meet some interesting people and gain valuable experience presenting."

Where to Start?

  • Start Early – Avoid the Rush - Don't underestimate the time needed to craft a compelling 200-word summary. Starting early allows you to refine your story and gather supporting evidence without the stress of the October 1st deadline looming.

  • Tell Your Story Clearly - Your intervention project has a narrative. What were the specific challenges? What solutions did you implement? The judges want to understand not just what you did, but why it mattered and how you approached complex problems.

  • Embrace Transparency - Don't hide the difficulties. The most compelling entries acknowledge challenges faced and lessons learned. This demonstrates maturity, problem-solving ability, and genuine learning - qualities that resonate with industry professionals

  • Highlight Your Unique Approach - What made your contribution different? Perhaps you applied existing technology in a novel way, developed innovative workarounds, or brought fresh perspective to established processes. These differentiators make your entry memorable.

  • Show, Don't Just Tell - Before and after comparisons are powerful. Quantify improvements where possible - reduced costs, improved efficiency, enhanced safety metrics. Data transforms good stories into compelling evidence.

  • Leverage Testimonials -Third-party validation carries weight. A brief quote from a supervisor, client, or colleague about your contribution adds credibility and external perspective to your submission

  • Submit with Confidence - As Cameron advises: "It's definitely worth going for. It's a chance to share what you've been working on, get feedback, build connections and develop your confidence."

The worst outcome? You gain experience articulating your professional achievements.

The best? Recognition, prize money, and connections that could shape your career trajectory!

The clock is ticking - October 1st deadline approaches. Your intervention story deserves to be heard.

Ready to submit your entry? Visit the submission page here