Esspee is proud to celebrate an extraordinary milestone — Colin’s 40 years of dedicated service.
Colin first joined Esspee in 1983 (aged 17) on a government scheme, earning £25 a week. His early days were spent working on the router and drills before moving on to more advanced manufacturing tasks. Having briefly left the business, a chance meeting with the owner of Esspee sealed his return in 1985 for a career that would span four decades.
Under the mentorship of Andy Goode (who Colin fondly describes as “golden”), he mastered CNC machining, steadily built knowledge and the skills that would see him become the lead machinist for several of Esspee’s key customers.
Over the years, Colin has witnessed first-hand Esspee’s transformation from significant building developments (including the unique experience of operations continuing while a new facility was built around the old one) to major advances in workplace health and safety and technology. The introduction of more exotic materials in recent years has brought fresh challenges that Colin has embraced with skill and enthusiasm.
When asked what he values most about his time at Esspee, Colin cites “secure employment, great colleagues, camaraderie and a safe working environment”.
Born and raised in St Helens (and still living just 4.5 miles away), Colin remains firmly rooted in the local community. As for retirement, he’s in no hurry and plans to work at Esspee for at least another decade!
Stuart Hanlon (Production Director) stated, “Colin’s knowledge, skill, and work ethic are second to none. He’s been a constant presence in the business, mentoring colleagues, adapting to change, and setting the highest standards of quality and precision.
Danny Phillips (Business Development Director) added “Customers often comment on the exceptional quality of the components Colin produces. His expertise plays a direct role in maintaining our reputation for quality and service. His dedication over the last 40 years is both inspiring and invaluable to our business”.
Reflecting on his career, Colin says the biggest change has been the pace of innovation both in the technology on the shop floor and in the materials being machined. He recalls a time when “things were simpler, but slower”, taking pride in how the company has evolved to meet more complex and demanding projects without losing its sense of teamwork. “It’s been a great place to work”.
David Carrington (MD) commented “We’re honoured to recognise Colin’s unwavering loyalty, exceptional skill, and commitment to our customers. His journey embodies the very spirit of Esspee, encapsulating longevity, teamwork and dedication. We’re extremely proud to have him as part of the Esspee team”.
Please join us in congratulating Colin on this incredible milestone.
