OBE for researcher whose work has helped protect firefighters

A Northumbria University academic whose work has helped modernise fire service operations and protect firefighters from harm has been recognised in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours 2026.

Dr Colin Richardson, an Assistant Professor in Business Information Systems and Data Analytics, has been awarded an OBE for services to fire service operations and firefighter safety.

Dr Richardson began his work with the fire service in the 1990s. As a member of a technology services team, he developed systems including real-time incident reporting, GPS appliance tracking and electronic management of hazardous substances that modernised day-to-day operations.

After becoming a Chartered Fellow of the British Computer Society in 2015, he undertook his PhD at Northumbria and began working as an Assistant Professor in 2020, bringing his real-world experience into the classroom.

His research focuses on finding ways to support firefighters who come under attack when responding to incidents.

Home Office figures show there are more than 1,000 attacks each year on fire service personnel by members of the public – a figure which is rising annually.

Working with County Durham Fire and Rescue Service, he has developed a new framework that uses predictive data to identify environments that may be hostile before crews are deployed.

His research has also identified where there are gaps in firefighter training to de-escalate situations; where there can be better coordination with other emergency services and how data can be best used to better protect fire personnel and strengthen public safety.

He continues to work closely with the fire services as an invited guest speaker at senior leadership and regional events.

Dr Richardson said: “Receiving an OBE is a humbling moment, something which I am very proud of and reflects something much bigger than any one activity.

“From modernising fire service operations in the 1990s to now developing predictive frameworks that help protect crews from hostile environments, this work has always been driven by a simple belief: that data, technology, and people working together can save lives. Being part of Northumbria University has allowed me to bring that mission into the classroom and push it further through research.”

Professor Andy Long, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Northumbria University, said: “We are delighted to see Colin’s exceptional contributions recognised with this honour. His career represents exactly the kind of impact-driven work that Northumbria University champions – applying research and expertise to real-world challenges that protect and improve people’s lives. The work he has done to safeguard firefighters, and his commitment to bringing that mission into the classroom, is an inspiration to staff and students alike.”

The Member of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) is awarded in recognition of distinguished service to a particular locality or type of activity, public service, or voluntary work.