One of the North East’s oldest family-run engineering businesses has celebrated a major milestone after welcoming its fourth generation into the firm’s fold.
Hartlepool-based JJ Hardy & Sons has onboarded Thomas Pailor, 17, son of managing director, Andy, as its newest apprentice.
Founded in 1856 by John James Hardy, the company was acquired by Andrew’s grandfather and Thomas’ namesake and great grandfather, Thomas Pailor, in 1938.
Initially producing parts to order for customers primarily in the maritime and defence sectors, the company has since grown rapidly under the stewardship of the Pailors.
While it continues to serve the maritime and defence sectors, it now also counts some of the biggest names in rail, energy and automotive among its client list.
The firm also recently secured its first direct export order courtesy of a global defence giant headquartered in France, representing a six-figure deal for the company.
And with Thomas becoming the fourth generation of Pailors to join the business, Andy remains optimistic about the 167-year-old firm’s prospects.
“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,” Andy said.
“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.”
Thomas’ apprenticeship has been 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, said: “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. We can only thank you for allowing Middlesbrough College the opportunity to be part of shaping the future of the business.
“Thomas is progressing extremely well in his apprenticeship and his desire to take the reigns in the future demonstrates engineering is in the DNA.”
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Original article: Hartlepool Mail, Insider Media, BDaily, Business News North East
