After earning his City & Guilds qualification in mechanical engineering, Julian began his career as a tool room machinist, before eventually making his way into the aerospace industry. Now, he works as our Production & Development Senior Engineer, and is our go-to person for customer support!
We recently sat down with Julian and asked him to tell us a bit about his career in engineering so far:
What made you want to work in an engineering environment?
As a child, I loved making models. I started with Airfix models and moved on to Tamiya F1 car models.
I’ve always liked assembling things, and when I enjoy something, I like to get as good at it as possible.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
When we come up with an idea for a product, it’s like a puzzle: designing all the components to complete the final assembly, testing it to well beyond the customers’ expectations, and then moving on to all the procedures that must be completed before it goes into manufacturing.
Finally, when we release it and our customers start using it!
What piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in engineering?
I was very fortunate in my early years.
Having started out in a tool room, then moving on to the aerospace industry, I had some great examples around me, including some brilliant engineers and machinists.
You really learn how to do things from the people around you, so my advice is to pay attention!
What’s the most exciting project you’ve worked on at BSL?
The development of our FW panels for welding and food provided the company with a new direction as we began updating original designs for the welding and food industries.
We went from being mainly beverage-focused to being involved in so many new applications.
If you could switch jobs with anyone in the company for a day, who would it be and why?
I really enjoy what I do. It’s what I know best, so I wouldn’t want to switch jobs with anyone!
What’s one piece of software you couldn’t live without?
I’d say Solidworks. Both Tom (our Draughtsman) and Keith (our Director of Engineering) use it every day, and I wouldn’t be able to work without them!
What’s the most interesting part of your job?
There’s something new to learn every day, so I’m constantly learning and teaching others on the job.
What advice would you give to yourself at the start of your career?
Learn as much as you can. Never turn down an opportunity to gain experience or a qualification.
If you could design anything without limits, what would you create?
I’d create a valve amplifier for my guitars that weighs a kilogram. My current amplifiers are very heavy!
What’s a big part of the manufacturing process that people might not realise?
If a customer wants something to be 100% fault-proof, we give 400%.
You have to anticipate what the customer might do before they do it and ensure the equipment can withstand it.
Where would you like to be in 5 years’ time?
Well, I’ve been here for almost 30 years, so I’d like to retire eventually, if I’m allowed! 🙂
Stay tuned for more exclusive interviews, as we celebrate the brilliant minds behind our gas mixing equipment.
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