SMD celebrates 110 years of experience in four staff

Strain Measurement Devices staff were all invited to a meal when the company celebrated 110 years of service by four people.

Steve Maloney, Neil Butcher and Jane Walton have all done 25 years at the Chedburgh company while managing director Will Easlea has 35 years under his belt.

Both Steve and Neil started straight from school as trainees learning the manufacturing processes required to build thin film force and pressure sensors and each has developed specialist skills.

Steve mastered the art of lapping and polishing a variety of materials and now runs this department.

Neil took on the role of cleanroom supervisor where intricate thin film processes take place.

Jane started doing the accounts when SMD had only a handful of customers and has developed into an accounts manager dealing with worldwide companies and everyday accounting issues.

Will said: “All three have been instrumental in the success of SMD, although they still have a bit of catching up to do with myself. There are a number of staff who will be achieving 20 years soon, but we are not all oldies, employing several young apprentices and trainees.”

SMD develops miniature load cells, strain gauge sensors and electronic flow measuring sensors.