“We are already well aware of the value of DSET in simulation, education and training, and the genuine difference between DSET and other conferences. DSET already offers a more inclusive sense of community where it is possible to have an intelligent conversation around the topics presented, and is the only conference we regularly attend where the organisers set out to proactively ask the user community for their views and their current issues, rather than merely putting out a passive “call for papers”.

DSET has also set an example to others in the sector for much greater diversity in speakers and presenters, including female international senior officers, and participants for the BAME community. There is very good evidence from social science and in the field of cyber education that a diverse group generates better quality decision making and a greater range of actionable alternatives than a group of white males. This is therefore very welcome in a field where the majority merely “take the presenter they are given” and perpetuate the status quo.”