Member Article

Birtley engineers to head to Japan

Excavator manufacturer Komatsu UK Ltd will see four of its engineers compete in the Technology OLympics, set to take place in Japan.

Kris Malloy, David Anderson, David Taylor and Richard Taylor succeeded at the recently held Komatsu UK Technology Olympics, beating from both fellow employees and suppliers.

One of the aims of the Japanese competition, which is now in its 37th year, is to provide Komatsu employees and key suppliers with the opportunity to demonstrate the high level of skill and technical ability required to work in the various disciplines of fabrication, painting, assembly and machine inspection.

In total, 98 people took part in the Komatsu UK competition comprising permanent and temporary employees, apprentices and supplier representatives.

According to Komatsu’s Tracey Wilson, Senior Human Resources Manager, the event is more than a competition, as it also brings other benefits.

She explained: “Komatsu has been running the UK Technology Olympics for 17 years. The event, which saw a record number of 98 competitors entering, is a great opportunity for employees and key suppliers to compete against each other in their chosen field.

“In addition it is a good motivational tool and helps staff to maintain the high quality standards the company is known for. When it comes to competing in Japan all four competitors will further improve their skills and learn new techniques which they will bring back and pass on to colleagues in the UK.”

David Taylor who will be entering the Assembly competition said “I am very much looking forward to having the experience of travelling to Japan to compete and to have the opportunity to further improve my skills and learn new techniques from our colleagues in Japan.

The annual Technology Olympics, coupled with the sharing of new skills and techniques plays a significant part in Komatsu’s core philosophy of continuous improvement.