Long-serving employees are the backbone of any successful organisation, and here at Chemring, we are fortunate to have many long-serving colleagues. These dedicated individuals not only bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their roles but also serve as mentors and role models for newer employees.
Walter, one of our longest-serving employees and now a Manufacturing Engineering Manager, recently celebrated an incredible 45 years with Chemring Sensors and Electronic Systems (CSES). His career journey includes a major move from Florida to North Carolina and decades of dedication to life-saving technology.
What motivated you to join Chemring, and what has kept you here for so long?
I started as an entry level engineer with no experience. Fresh out of college with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, I was happy to get an engineering job. Within two years, I was promoted to manager, the youngest ever in the company at the time, and I have managed teams ever since. What has kept me here has been the technology, the great teams, and being able to help save lives by supporting our warfighters with critical equipment to keep them out of harm’s way.
Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your time here?
When producing the ground penetrating radar used on the Husky vehicle for ground clearance of improvised explosive devices (IED), I had the opportunity to work closely with the Government program manager (PM). The PM was an active-duty Major, and during our time together at our facility, he told me this equipment was saving lives. In the Defence industry, we do not often hear directly from the users of the equipment about how well it is functioning.
How has Chemring changed since you first started?
The US Defence industry has changed dramatically due to changes in specifications, government oversight, development cycles, and technological advances. Chemring has followed this evolution in the industry and has been able to adapt accordingly.
What advice would you give to new employees just starting their careers here?
If you call it a “job” and not a career, then you are not on the right path. If you do not feel compelled to do your best and support your team with shared goals, then you are at the wrong company.
What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge has been finding a work-life balance. Whether it was supporting the 24/7 manufacturing during Operation Desert Storm, taking the lead on moving the entire facility (and my family) from Florida to North Carolina, or meeting the deployment needs of the Ground Penetrating Radar program. I’ve always felt compelled to see every project through to a successful conclusion.
How do you stay motivated and passionate about your work after all these years?
I have worked with some fantastic, high-performing teams and brilliant individuals I could count on. The technology is so interesting, and knowing I am helping to protect the warfighter is a big motivation.
Can you describe a project or initiative that you are particularly proud of?
Moving the facility from Florida to North Carolina is a project I am most proud of during my 45-year career. It was a massive undertaking, laying out the building, moving all the equipment, setting up the production lines, and completing First Articles, all without missing a shipment. It was a monumentally fulfilling effort.
What do you think sets our company apart from others in the industry?
I feel Chemring develops particularly close relationships with its customers. We are agile enough to meet the customer's needs. Plus, we are unique in the products we build.
What’s next for you?
I will eventually retire and then focus on my family and hobbies.
Walter’s dedication, leadership, and passion for supporting the warfighter will leave a lasting legacy at CSES.