Long-serving employees are the backbone of any successful organisation and here at Chemring we are fortunate to have a lot of long serving colleagues. Ranging from five years’ service right up to an incredible 45 years! These dedicated individuals not only bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their roles but also serve as mentors and role models for newer employees.
In this issue, meet one of our longest serving employees, Dave, Systems Engineering Technician. Dave has worked for the company for 44 years in the Chemring Sensors and Electronic Systems (CSES) business located in Charlotte, North Carolina.
What motivated you to join Chemring, and what has kept you here for so long?
I had a buddy in college who told me that I should apply for a job where he worked. After some thought, a week or so later, I applied for the job and got it, and here I still am! Any time you change jobs or companies, it is a big change, but for me, it was a good one.
One of the things that has kept me here so long is all the different challenges that come up. I’ve worked on many different programs that have kept my interest going and challenged my thinking on how systems work, how to troubleshoot, and how to make improvements.
Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your time here?
One of the most memorable moments was moving our facilities to another state. I was tasked to move the test room and get it functioning as soon as possible. It was a big task, but as a team we got it done.
Afterwards, I was awarded a company President’s Award, which was an honour.
How has Chemring changed since you first started?
Chemring continually evolves to meet the current needs of our customers.
As our products evolve, the company supports us well, ensuring our success.
I think one of the things that sets Chemring apart from others is having different divisions in the industry. For example, sensors, security, aerospace, and energetics. This gives great diversity for both employees and customers alike.
Can you describe a project or initiative that you are particularly proud of during your time with Chemring?
The current EMBD/RAAD program that we are working on now is something to make us as a team very proud. When we first started this program, we had to align, calibrate, and test this unit to unique specifications. We did it, and we continue to improve the test process.
What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced, and how did you overcome them?
Some of the biggest challenges I face in my role are trying to understand and troubleshoot intermittent circuit problems. Sometimes you just have to step away from the problem and return later. Then, when you return to it with new thoughts and fresh eyes, it can usually be solved.
What advice would you give to new employees just starting their careers here?
Stay flexible. Keep up with current knowledge and education and be a team player.