Family tradition as fourth generation joins firm

A family-run North East engineering company with roots dating back over 160 years has reached a new milestone by welcoming its fourth generation into the firm’s fold.

JJ Hardy & Sons, based in Hartlepool, has onboarded 17-year-old Thomas Pailor, son of managing director Andy Pailor, as its latest apprentice.

Thomas’ apprenticeship is being supported by Middlesbrough College, where he is studying CNC machining one day a week at the college’s Middlehaven campus.

He said: “I’ve always wanted to follow in the footsteps of my dad and grandad by joining the family business, so I was delighted when I was offered the chance to do an apprenticeship with Middlesbrough College.

“Growing up in and around the business, I knew a little bit about how it all worked, however the apprenticeship has given me the chance to learn as I earn, while getting the qualifications I need to be certified.

“I’ve really enjoyed it and am delighted with how it is going so far.”

Mark Hall, associate director of apprenticeships at Middlesbrough College, added: “The longevity of the business is a testament to Pailor family; after speaking to Andrew about the history and challenges faced over the years you feel nothing but pride for a local business working on a global scale.

“Thomas is progressing extremely well in his apprenticeship and his desire to take the reins in the future demonstrates engineering is in the DNA.”

Established in 1856 by John James Hardy and acquired by the Pailor family in 1938, the company has grown significantly from producing bespoke maritime and defence components to serving major rail, energy and automotive clients.

The firm recently secured its first direct export order courtesy of a global defence giant headquartered in France, representing a six-figure deal for the company.

With Thomas now joining the family business, Andy is optimistic about the future of the 167-year-old enterprise and its continued legacy in engineering excellence.

He said: “Thomas has been in and around the place since he was able to walk, so it is great to finally see him join the team in an official capacity.

“As a family business, we take great pride in being a close-knit team and delivering the best possible service for our clients and Thomas has really bought into that.

“He has already learned a lot from working alongside the wider team and we’ve had great feedback from the lecturers working with him on his apprenticeship.

“What’s more, he has joined at what is a really exciting time for the business, so having the extra pair of hands is really helping as orders ramp up.

“It’s a great moment for us as a company and as a family, we couldn’t be happier to have him on board.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →