The People Powering Hutchinson – Dave Hodge, Welding Chargehand
In welding, there’s always more to learn. Taking pride in my work and seeking insights from seasoned welders can be a game-changer. I relish the constant learning curve, the joy of improving my welding skills, and the support from management.
Meet Dave Hodge
Starting the day right: PPE, tasks and teamwork
Safety is our foremost priority so I start my day by changing into the correct PPE and head to my work bay. Typically, there’s either a pending task or a new assignment from my manager, Lee. As a chargehand, my responsibilities aren’t limited to my welding tasks. I also oversee a list of welding jobs scheduled for the day, ensure any required testing is done, and serve as a point of contact for the team. The collaborative nature of the workshop is evident, with cell boards indicating tasks and encouraging cross-departmental cohesion.
An apprentice's evolution at Hutchinson
After high school, I enrolled in a general engineering course at my local college. My journey eventually led me to an apprenticeship at Hutchinson, a company I believed offered immense opportunities for learning and career advancement.
Completing my apprenticeship has been rewarding, allowing me to gain qualifications like the Magnetic Particle Testing (MPI) level 2 PCN and first aid training with St John’s Ambulance.
Over time, my career has developed and I’ve honed my welding skills, worked on a variety of interesting projects like 3G to 5G telecom masts, the Tottenham Hotspur pitch grow lights project, and Transport frames for wind turbines.
Continuous learning and future aspirations
In welding, there’s always more to learn. Taking pride in my work and seeking insights from seasoned welders can be a game-changer. I relish the constant learning curve, the joy of improving my welding skills, and the support from managment.
My advice for budding welders? Stay curious and never hesitate to ask for guidance. As for my future, I envision taking on more responsibilities at Hutchinson, nurturing upcoming apprentices, and elevating my welding expertise.
