WJA strengthens standards with new technical manager
The Water Jetting Association has significantly boosted the support it can give members and its ability to drive forward exemplary quality standards through the appointment of Gordon Taylor as its first Technical Manager.
He will be responsible for overseeing the development of the WJA’s codes of practice and its audited member programme and for the assessment of WJA-approved examination providers and WJA-approved coaches/examiners.
He will also play a key role in working with industry stakeholders, including the HSE, other regulatory agencies and business associations, to share best practices and ensure the interests of WJA members are understood and considered.
Vital component
Gordon has worked in the water jetting industry for more than 40 years, holding senior positions in specialist companies that deliver contractor services, equipment rental, and manufacturing of water jetting equipment in the UK and the Middle East.
WJA President John Jones said: “Creating this new technical manager role is a vital component of the WJA’s strategy to provide the best possible support for WJA members and embed our standards in the water jetting industry in the UK and internationally.
“Gordon has precisely the right experience and skills we need to further those aims. He is also absolutely committed to the WJA’s core objectives, which are to promote safe and technically competent water jetting in the UK and worldwide.
“We’re very lucky to have been able to appoint him to this new role and we’re looking forward to supporting him in developing what will be an exciting and vitally important new body of work for the WJA.”
Safe and effective
Gordon trained as a fitter in the Royal Engineers before joining Neolith Pumps as a mechanic in 1980.
He went on to work as a sales manager, operations manager, technical expert and contracts manager in other companies, and was a business development manager for Veolia Industrial Services before joining the WJA.
He said: “It’s very exciting to have the opportunity to work for the WJA as it represents the industry that has defined my working career. I’m looking.
forward to working with WJA members and external bodies to make water jetting safer and more effective.
“I see myself as a kind of glue that brings together key people in the water jetting industry, including coaching and examination bodies, contractors, and service users, to build strong relationships that further all our aims.
“Water jetting is developing rapidly, so I also aim to help the WJA bring together the emerging technical and regulatory trends so we can best advise our members and positively influence the development of our industry.”
Direction of travel
Gordon is also keen to champion younger rising stars in the water jetting industry, and to encourage them to become directly involved in the WJA.
WJA General Manager Leanne Smith said: “It’s fantastic to have Gordon on board. His knowledge and expertise give us confidence about our direction of travel and will be vital to implementing decisions made by our committees and the WJA Ruling Council.”