Looking back on 2015: Part one

As we approach the end of another exciting year here at Gibbons Engineering Group, we thought we’d take a look back at some memorable moments from the last 12 months. It’s been such a busy year that we’ve had to split the review into two parts, so here’s the first instalment of our 2015 highlights.

The year began with the introduction of the latest stage of the EU MEPS electric motor efficiency legislation. The new regulations, effective as of January 1^st, meant many motors had to be upgraded to IE3 efficiency, or IE2 if coupled with a variable-speed drive.

At the end of January, Gibbons stalwart Eileen Lewis entered well-earned retirement. Having spent 30 years with the company, Finance Director Eileen said she was looking forward to spending more time with her husband, family and friends along with travelling and researching her family tree.

February saw Gibbons’ ABB Variable-Speed Drives division win an accolade for our performance as an Authorized Value Provider. Collected by Drives Manager Alan Roberts, the award recognised ‘Greatest and most consistent growth 2011-2014’, acknowledging our ever-increasing ABB drives sales.

We had a bit of fun for a good cause in March as we took part in the Red Nose Day Great Comic Relief Bake Off. Staff baked and bought a selection of delicious cakes which were sold off to raise £75 for the long-running charity. The prize for best baker was awarded to Beth Scott, six-year-old daughter of Sales Manager Paul, for her mouth-watering cupcakes.

A team of Gibbons engineers jetted off to America in April to deliver a week-long humidification project in Vancouver, Washington. Our client was a leading multinational semiconductor manufacturer and the job involved the installation of our largest-ever air handling unit – so big it required two control panels running in tandem!

After weeks of preparation, we launched our new Gibbons Ultraviolet Solutions division in May. This venture, in partnership with BioZone Scientific International, sees us deliver surface disinfection of air handling equipment through ultraviolet-C (UVC) light technology. Applying powerful UVC light within HVAC equipment destroys bacteria, mould and viruses - enhancing system efficiency and improving the wellbeing of building occupants.

In June, Gibbons engineer Zach Surguy was named Outstanding Apprentice at Colchester Institute’s 10^th annual Further Education and Apprenticeship Awards. The accolade recognised Zach’s considerable dedication and achievements during his studies, while he was noted as being “a positive influence on his peers.”

Look out for the concluding part of our look back at 2015 – coming soon!