Profile

Thomson Aero Ltd. (formerly Thomson Machine & Tool Co. Ltd), are a world-class precision engineering company based in Frome, Somerset. A third generation family owned business, they produce precision components of high complexity and quality for the aerospace, marine and energy sectors.

Their main customer is Rolls Royce but they also supply to several companies including GKN Aerospace and Cross Manufacturing. The Rolls Royce business has grown steadily over the last few years. They produce key engine components for several engine families used by Boeing & Airbus and in military applications such as the Eurofighter-Typhoon, Tornado, Harrier and Hawk.

The Challenge

About 5 years ago they acquired a second site in Frome, to house an increasing number of state-of-the-art CNC machines, some costing up to £½M. Due to their high tensile strength to density ratio and high corrosion resistance, titanium alloys are widely used in aerospace. In fact, about two thirds of all titanium metal produced is used in aircraft engines & frames.

“We manufacture un-classified, sensitive and critical aero-engine components” says Fraser Thomson, General Manager. “We mainly work with titanium and exotic nickel based alloys which are extremely durable.”

The company has grown significantly in the last few years with the workforce increasing from 50+ to 80+ as turnover approaches £10M. This has brought its own challenges, and has meant restructuring to achieve a more effective organisation.

The Solution

This year Thomson’s started their second apprentice as part of a rolling programme to provide a steady stream of engineers.

“We are successful because of our staff. They are our company’s single biggest asset, but it is increasingly difficult to recruit engineers with the right skills” says Fraser Thomson. “That’s why we are working with Avon Vale to bring in young talent through apprenticeships.”

The Results

“Apprentices bring enthusiasm and flexibility, which is great. They develop the particular skills the business needs” says Joe Gooding (mentor to Thomson’s apprentices). “As well as their practical learning, apprentices have to do some written work. I know from my own experience the danger of letting this build up, so I encourage the lads to do a little bit often. They aspire to be good engineers and are already producing some very good work.”

“I’m really proud to be involved with a team of people striving to be second to none,” says Fraser Thomson. “We really enjoy the engineering challenges and succeeding against the odds.”