Spotlight on Kevin Howard Over 26 years at experience.

Here is Kevin Howard, his time-served wealth of fabricating and technical knowledge gained at TRADELINK makes Kevin (a.k.a Hazard) a greatly appreciated member of our Team. It’s unusual for Kevin to sit still for long, but whilst at his desk, he was asked for an insight into his 26 years of Window & Door production experience.

What is your current role at TRADELINK?

I first started working at our Mildenhall factory in 1994 manually applying gaskets to sashes, and leading on from there I steadily became more involved with quality control and the more technical aspects of production. My current role as Quality Engineer now spans all Six TRADELINK manufacturing plants located on 3 separate sites.

What motivates you to wake up and go to work?

I enjoy a ‘challenge’. I’m involved in most areas generally associated with ‘Quality’ including production audits & accreditations, new product trials & development, quality control, troubleshooting and offering technical support. Combining this with the vast range of products we now manufacture, the days definitely pass quickly, but it is rewarding to see results.

What has changed for you at TRADELINK since the COVID 19 Pandemic?

Normally my role requires the need for a multi-site presence, and now one of the biggest challenges is complying not only with all existing PPE requirements but also the evolving need for COVID-19 safety compliance. Currently I operate wherever possible remotely via phone & live video link. At the end of the day, combatting the prevailing situation must be taken seriously by all.

What is the most demanding part of your current role?

In order to maintain high quality levels, the continued co-operation I have from our production and maintenance teams is so important. This part of my job is based around practical stage assessments and recommendation to enable the best end results possible.

What has been your favourite project so far?

Project FLUSH. In 2019 we set up a brand-new manufacturing facility. This factory is highly automated incorporating cut-routing-seamless welding of profiles on one line. We set out to manufacture the full range of Residence Windows and doors R7, R2 & R9. In 2020 we added Rehau Rio to the list. These products truly stand out from the pack, our approach compliments these premium windows and doors from ease of installation to an all-round trouble-free experience.

What is the best thing about your job?

Variety, and lots of it!

What is something that most people don’t know about you?

My ‘clumsy’ childhood earned me the nickname Hazard. And living locally, plus working with many local staff it’s a name I just can’t escape!

And lastly, remembering a fun moment post lockdown, make us all smile?

Being the first TRADELINK employee to be driving an electric/hybrid car, I feel much better about my environmental contribution, but it’s too early to gauge the full-effect particularly with my nickname!

A big THANK-YOU to Kevin from all the Team at TRADELINK