PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER – Tom Fieldsend

On November 1st Tom Fieldsend took on the role of Product Development Engineer.

Just over three years ago Steve Harper stepped up to become the Head of Engineering and took along with him the role of Product Manager.

During this time Steve has done both roles tirelessly and to good effect but it has always been recognised that the company needed to develop a greater field test/product development presence.

Tom will increasingly spend more time on visits with Steve, reviewing and developing our own products in the work environment whilst continuing to help their development here in the factory.

In time it is hoped that Tom will then be able to undertake visits with the Sales people and on his own giving us greater coverage of our markets around the World.

Steve Harper (Head of Engineering) 25 years Service

Steve Foster retires after 46 years at P&V

Steve Foster retired from Padley & Venables last week after more than 46 years’ service, joining us in September 1975 as a ‘Craft Apprentice’.

After finishing his apprenticeship in 1978 he became a Setter in our now obsolete Coal Cutter Section.

In 1980 he became a Skilled Machinist  in our also now obsolete, Percussive Bits section.

In 1987 he was promoted to Foreman in the General Machine Shop, over the years gaining experience in every department except the Carburiser.

In 2002 to Quality Manager Designate, naturally migrating to Padley & Venables Quality Manager.

Steve travelled internationally for the business to help our customers.

In the last few years Steve has reduced his working hours gradually but has been overseeing and bringing to fruition various projects including the purchase and installation of new plant and equipment.

 

Steve has been a great servant to the company, a fantastic colleague to work alongside and he will be greatly missed by us all!

 

We wish him well for a long, happy and fun filled retirement.