Aquaculture Awards Shine Spotlight on Unheralded Champions
This year, the Aquaculture Awards judges made a departure from tradition by recognizing individuals contributing to the essential support services behind the scenes.
•
•
Do not index
Do not index
At the Aquaculture Awards 2024, Scottish Sea Farms celebrated the achievements of two of its employees, shedding light on the often overlooked yet critical support services within the industry. Dr. Ralph Bickerdike, serving as head of fish health, received the prestigious "Unsung Hero" award for his pioneering work in correlating nutrition with fish health outcomes. With a background encompassing 12 years of research at aquafeed giant BioMar, Bickerdike's expertise significantly enhances Scottish Sea Farms' efforts in optimizing fish welfare. His leadership extends beyond nutritional research, encompassing broader advancements such as the integration of cleaner fish, freshwater treatments, and water quality surveillance. Moreover, his dedication to establishing a secure supply of Scottish broodstock underscores his commitment to the company's long-term sustainability goals.
Meanwhile, David Lipcsey, an IT engineer, was jointly honored with the Rising Star accolade for his instrumental role in integrating systems following the acquisition of Grieg Seafood Shetland in 2021. Lipcsey's adept management facilitated the seamless transition of inherited hatchery IT infrastructure and the adoption of Scottish Sea Farms' preferred individual farm feeding approach across ex-Grieg farms. His contributions extended beyond technological prowess, earning praise for his unflappable demeanor amidst the complexity of competing projects. Lipcsey's versatility as the primary liaison for numerous transition processes, spanning new farms, barges, and facilities, highlights his indispensable role in the company's growth and operational efficiency.
The recognition of Bickerdike and Lipcsey underscores Scottish Sea Farms' commitment to fostering talent and innovation across diverse disciplines within the aquaculture sector. Their achievements not only elevate the profile of support services within the industry but also demonstrate the vital role played by individuals behind the scenes in driving sustainable growth and operational excellence.