FEATURE
Excellence in Industry Recognized Again SubTel Forum Awards Presented at SubOptic 2025 BY WAYNE NIELSEN, FOUNDER & PUBLISHER, SUBMARINE TELECOMS FORUM INC.
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he submarine cable industry depends on clarity, precision, and leadership. SubOptic continues to provide an environment where these qualities are demonstrated. Held every three years, SubOptic gathers the people and ideas that drive the development of global communications infrastructure. At SubOptic 2025 in Lisbon, SubTel Forum presented the Excellence in Industry Awards. These honors returned to the global stage after their initial debut at SubOptic 2010 in Yokohama. They remain the industry’s highest technical recognitions, awarded only to those whose work demonstrates exceptional insight and practical value.
ESTABLISHED TRADITION. EARNED DISTINCTION.
The Excellence in Industry Awards were introduced in 2010 during SubOptic in Yokohama. Their purpose has never changed. These awards highlight individuals whose contributions elevate the entire profession. They reward research that is original, precise, and impactful. The first honorees set a strong precedent. Craig Donovan received the Best Poster Presentation award for work on fiber system lifecycle assessment. Raj Mishra, Sergey Ten, and Rita Rukosueva were honored for technical leadership in low-loss, high-capacity optical fiber development. Subsequent winners shaped the evolution of the field.
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In 2013, Nicole Starosielski brought a sociotechnical lens to cable systems. In 2016, Paul Deslandes addressed fiber installation in developing markets. In 2019, awardees presented on reconfigurable wet plant applications, thermal management, and validation of new transmission technology. At SubOptic 2023 in Bangkok, the focus turned to carbon pricing, Arctic sensing, and hazard resilience. Each award cycle has reflected emerging trends. Each set of recipients has helped define the industry’s direction.
SUBOPTIC 2025. LISBON’S AWARD CLASS.
At SubOptic 2025, SubTel Forum presented awards in three categories. Each category recognizes a distinct form of excellence.
BEST ORAL PRESENTATION AWARD
This award honors a presenter who demonstrated technical depth and clarity during a live session. The winning presentation advanced both knowledge and practical application. The speaker delivered complex material with discipline and precision. • Recipients: Andy Palmer-Felgate and Kitch Kennedy • Title: REVOLUTIONIZING ROUTE SURVEYS WITH LOW-CARBON, UNCREWED PLATFORMS: INSIGHTS FROM THE 2024 NORTH