Rugby School welcomes back Beau Carney for chemistry lecture

On Monday 13 October, Rugby School LXX Chemistry students welcomed Rugbeian Beau Carney (Ma + T 00-07), who now leads the Ministry of Defence account for Microsoft, driving digital transformation across the UK defence sector.

Beau’s distinguished career has spanned senior roles in aerospace, defence, and technology, where he has worked alongside both government and industry to enhance capability, resilience, and innovation. A former semi-professional rugby player with Rugby Lions and former Rugby School 1^st XV, he also holds a Master’s in Sport Management from Loughborough University.

In his engaging lecture, Beau shared fascinating first-hand insights into the intersection of technology and national security, highlighting how rapid advances in artificial intelligence, data systems, and cyber defence are reshaping the modern defence landscape.

The session concluded with a lively Q&A, as students explored topics from ethical AI to international security and career pathways in science and technology.

The event formed part of the department’s ongoing programme to connect students with leaders in science and technology, inspiring them to see how their studies can shape the world beyond the classroom.