Record numbers enjoy TSA Discussion Group

Published: 18 Nov 2013

“TSA should be applauded for continuing to host events such as this.”

“Thanks TSA – Great Day.”

“Another informative and entertaining TSA event that was worth booking the day off for.”

“I really appreciated the honesty from the speakers and the complete and full knowledge they have.” 

TSA’s Discussion Group meeting was held on 30th October, with the inspirational and historic Imperial War Museum at Duxford as the venue.  The skies were blue and the view over the airfield was breath taking.  Over 50 members benefitted from a programme packed with thought-provoking and relevant topics.  After tea, coffee and bacon rolls, the day kicked off with a superb talk from Ivor Warne from the Museum.  We learned that film crews did more damage to the airfield than the Germans ever managed!

This was followed by a presentation from Charlotte Hill from English Heritage on the national archive of aerial photography, with some stunning examples.  Trevor Burton from Fugro-BKS followed up with 30 minutes on Aerial LiDAR surveying and Mark Hudson of Coastway completed the morning session with his presentation on commercial applications of SUA (Small Unmanned Aircraft) surveying.  Lunch beckoned, as did the chance to explore the museum with all the historic aircraft.

The afternoon session began with the presentation of the TSA Bursary award to two successful students from Newcastle University, Emmanuel Lawal and Adam Miller.  Adam Bradley from Jacobs then spoke about Geomatics as a global business.  Mat Kellett from Topcon was next up, with a talk on Mobile Mapping and how data collection and management is changing.  Barry Mudie from Met Police gave a very entertaining and illuminating talk on recovering stolen equipment, which is of huge relevance to members.  Finally, Nick Hampson of MHLS spoke about the trials and tribulations of running a survey company which was both thought and discussion provoking.

We were delighted to welcome Mike Gladwell, formerly of Survey Three and a past Council Member of the Association, as a guest for the day.  Not even a fire evacuation (a first for a TSA meeting!) could prevent the meeting finishing on time, with attendees sent off with plenty to think about.