Having completed my training as a design draughtsman for mechanical handling plant in the early 70's I moved into the lifting equipment industry in 1974, where I have worked ever since.Along the way in my career path this has seen me work in the NE of England with major lifting companies, gaining the skills and qualifications to move into sales and works management which in the early 80's lead me to move abroad to South Africa, furthering my experience and knowledge of lifting equipment both above and below the hook. On my return to the UK, I continued in the technical chain sales field with Parsons Chain both for the home market in the UK and export sales into Europe and Africa. Following a wider path with some diversions (Different companies and jobs) I was fortunate to join what has become my spiritual (work) home with Brindley Chains in 2000 as a sales engineer, leading to my appointment as a company director in 2011.I currently sit on the technical committee for the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) which offers me a chance to learn more, but also to give something back to the industry which has supported me for most of my working career.