Drastic re-thinking pays off for engineers

PETER Edwards hit the nail on its head with the story about WGH Transportation Engineering of Doncaster; manufacturers which have survived the closure of mines, power stations, shipyards etc. have had to do drastic re-thinking (Yorkshire Post, March 3).

The old company was GMT, Gyro Mining Transport and how fortunate that three resourceful directors, but with two now into the “oldie bracket”, could diversify into worldwide consulting and supplying machinery to the hobby markets.

The need for fresh blood is obvious and many Yorkshire firms have to find engineers displaying drive and ambition. With university fees alone costing up to £9,000 per annum, live-wire firms can find part-time students willing to do practical machining and wiring to finance their studies.

While humanities’ graduates have difficulties finding jobs, nearly all engineers are usually snapped up early. Bloctube Marine Services is one small manufacturer in Leeds, and today early retired craftsmen or students have satisfying jobs. Their remote controlled searchlights with twin lamps found a market among megayachts mainly built for the super-rich.

The UK market was limited, but most deliveries have gone to Germany, Holland, Italy etc.

The young management at this company also found the Mediterranean countries and recently China for its Yangtze river police patrols, being excellent markets. Italy and Greece struggle with illegal immigrants and early detection at sea is made possible in all weathers thanks to UV lights fitted.

Business travel, exhibitions and cultivation of UK based naval architects bring in the contacts and the clients. A Chinese shipping delegation is expected to arrive at the Cross Green factory shortly.