CIBSE Gold Medal 2026 Winners

David Arnolds exceptional contribution to building services engineering spans more than 65 years, distinguished by outstanding leadership, technical innovation and unwavering service to CIBSE. As CIBSE President in 1994, and through over five decades of active membership, he has championed the profession nationally and internationally, strengthening collaboration with ASHRAE and enhancing CIBSE’s global standing. A pioneer of low-energy design, natural ventilation and thermal storage, David has combined academic excellence with practical achievement, authoring influential publications, mentoring future professionals and shaping industry guidance. His enduring commitment, vision and leadership have left a lasting legacy for CIBSE and the wider built environment.

Thomas Chan has made an exceptional contribution to building services engineering across Hong Kong and Asia over a distinguished 43-year career. Through his leadership of landmark healthcare, governmental and institutional projects, he has transformed the built environment while advancing innovation, resilience and sustainability. A dedicated advocate for education, training and mentoring, he has inspired generations of future engineers. Thomas’ long-standing service to CIBSE, including as Hong Kong Region Chair and Council member, has strengthened the Institution’s influence in Asia. His lifelong commitment to excellence and ethical practice transcends technical achievement, establishing a legacy of professional eminence in building services engineering.

Paddy Conaghan has provided exceptional leadership and service to CIBSE, helping to shape both the Institution and the wider building services profession over many years. As CIBSE Vice President, Chair of the BIM Group and Chair of the Premises Advisory Committee, he has driven significant strategic initiatives, including the successful delivery of CIBSE’s new headquarters and the advancement of BIM across the industry. A passionate advocate for collaboration between academia and practice, he has championed knowledge sharing, innovation and professional development. Respected for his mentorship, thoughtful leadership and commitment to excellence, Paddy’s influence continues to inspire engineers across the profession. 

John Field has demonstrated outstanding service to CIBSE and the building services profession through decades of technical leadership, innovation and institutional commitment. As CIBSE President in 2016-17, he championed greater visibility for the profession, promoting diversity, inclusivity and stronger engagement with the built environment agenda. John has made significant contributions to many CIBSE publications, including as Principal Author of TM46 informing the industry's approach to building performance evaluation and energy benchmarking. As Chair of CIBSE Certification Ltd, John has been a trailblazer in the commercial forays that CIBSE have made into Government regulated energy management. He continues to support the profession as a Trustee of the CIBSE Benevolent Fund.

Peter Kinsella has given more than four decades of distinguished service to CIBSE and the building services profession, providing exceptional leadership both within the Institution and across the industry. As CIBSE President in 2013, he helped shape a more internationally representative Institution, broadening engagement beyond the UK and reinforcing CIBSE’s global outlook. Through sustained service on the Australia and New Zealand Regional Committee, regional leadership roles, and dedicated mentoring of emerging professionals, he has strengthened governance, professional standards, and member engagement. Respected for his integrity, collaboration, and stewardship, Peter's contribution has left a lasting legacy for CIBSE and its international community.