Page 3 - INDEX Autumn 2025

C S A SPE CIAL

RE C OGNITION AWARD

ANDREW WA TKIN CHAIRMAN ' S S A Y

The final award of the awards evening was one that was well overdue… and could not be more deserved. So here we are. A year on from when I was elected as the CSA Chair. That year has been a challenging
one for the association. We knew that getting our training systems accepted by BESA to demonstrate the
Andrew Watkin, this year’s recipient, has worked But Andrew’s contribution isn’t defined by titles. It’s necessary competence to obtain a CSCS card would increase applications for membership. However, we
in the commissioning industry for 25 years, defined by his presence, loyalty, and heart. Always have been shocked by the size of that increase. In the early days there were some delays in processing
beginning his career back in 2000. After spending welcoming, always supportive, and always there the applications and we apologise for that. I am glad to say that we have now a) caught up and b)
six years with Commtech, he decided to do it his in times of need — whether as a trusted advisor, a improved our systems to minimise any future issues.
own way and set up Airtech Premier in 2004. He steady hand, or simply someone to share a laugh
has been proved correct as it has thrived ever with. And anyone who knows him will agree: you are It is not all bad. We have revamped our commissioning management training material and brought the
since. Andrew has been part of the CSA family always greeted with a big smile, usually followed course delivery fully in house – it is now presented by our own Tony Anderson – a very experienced
almost from day one. An individual member since by a bigger laugh. Outside of the commissioning CxM. Feedback on the new set-up has been extremely positive. We have also completed the preparation
2000, he later brought his company on board as world, he has dedicated huge energy to charity and successful launch of all three water-treatment DLC packages, a truly immense effort by the water
a corporate member in 2011. And if you’ve been work, especially in support of CRY – Cardiac Risk in treatment committee that deserves our heartfelt thanks. We already have had about 70 people enrol
to a CSA committee meeting in the last 19 years, the Young. Through fundraising and awareness, he’s on these courses.
chances are you’ve seen him there — because he’s made a positive impact that has touched many lives
barely missed one! Some people collect stamps… far beyond our industry. Andrew is also very much We have also maintained our contributions to other construction lead bodies such as CIBSE, BSRIA,
others collect committee minutes. a family man. Based in Yateley, he enjoys nothing the BESA and Accentuate and made new links with organisations such as the Nuclear Commissioning
more than a good holiday and spending quality Excellence Forum. Our training and technical sub-committees have also continued their work to update
Over the years he’s taken on just about every role time with those closest to him. He’s supported and improve our material to make sure that you the members have access to the best information and
the CSA could throw at them. Tutor, vice chairman throughout by his wife Nadine — who was with him we are so grateful for their continuing efforts.
in both 2014 and 2021, and chairman not once but at the awards – and deserves a mention for always
twice. In fact, during his second stint, he kindly being right by his side, whether at CSA events or Reflecting on this year’s CSA Awards, I’m sure you noticed that there were additional awards for
“volunteered” to extend his chairmanship into 2018 in everyday life. Together they have two sons, who water treatment activities. These joined the existing commissioning and commissioning management
— proving that when the CSA needs a safe pair of no doubt keep him on his toes just as much as the categories and we thank both the existing and new sponsors that have come on board to support those
hands, they don’t just step up… they stay put! committee ever has! awards. Even without the new categories, there were a record number of entries and the quality of many
of those entries was so high that differentiating between them when scoring was quite frankly a real
problem, but one that was so nice to have. Of course, the event itself was a real humdinger. Over 350
people and no lesser a person than Kevin Keegan to present the awards! How far our event has come
from 10 years ago.
C HAI R M AN ' S C HAR I T Y I have to say that this year’s Special Contribution award was so apt. Andrew Watkin has been one of the main

planks of the CSA management team for so many years and it was a real pleasure to recognise his efforts.
The Alzheimer’s Society builds understanding and support for more
people affected by dementia than anyone else. It is the UK’s leading I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all the people who contributed to the record amount of money
dementia charity. It leads the way in bringing together people from raised at the awards for this year’s charity, the Alzheimer’s Society. Thank you very much.
all spheres of society to create a future where dementia no longer
devastates lives. The society has over 45 years’ experience and provides tailored
support to those that need it, funds groundbreaking research and campaigns tirelessly Elsewhere in this issue you will see reports from our CEO, Neil Burdess and the CTO, Tony Anderson. I
to make curing dementia a priority. have to say that it would be pretty impossible for the CSA to maintain our achievements without the
tremendous efforts that those two make and I can confirm that my role would be untenable without
Dementia is everywhere. It affects millions of people, having a huge impact on the NHS, social care and society as a their support. Thank you, Chaps! But, I also need to make it clear that us three would be truly all at sea
whole. Its complexity means there are overwhelming challenges in how we research, diagnose and treat it. We cannot without Jo, Kate and now Kayleigh running our administration down in Horsham. We are so lucky to
ignore it.
have them…………
• Dementia can affect anyone – even people in their 40s
• Families are left struggling – often feeling scared, alone and unsure of what to do So, here’s looking forward to maintaining our progress over the next year. Our aim, as always, is to promote
• It costs us all – putting pressure on health and social care services the importance of commissioning, commissioning management and now water treatment to the wider
This year’s Gala Awards raised £3,547.00 Thank you all for your generous contributions and support. For those of you who would construction industry and so improve the lot of our members and help them continue their successes.
still like to contribute to the Chairmans charity the link to be used is: www.justgiving.com/page/csa-awards-25
Finally, I hope that you all know that we really do value your support for our efforts. Thank you.

Keith Barker – CSA Chairman