About Nick Cook
Nick started with Top Tubes in 2016, equipped with a degree in architectural design and a strong background in sheet metal. His expertise in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) made him an immediate asset. He quickly moved into a CAD-focused role and was always keen on progression, actively seeking out challenges to push his capabilities.
One of the first major challenges Nick faced was the installation of new laser machinery. This involved managing the complete overhaul of the laser systems, from coordinating the removal of outdated equipment to working closely with suppliers to install our latest BLM LT7, Tru Laser Tube 5000 and Tru Laser 7000 lasers. His successful handling of this complex project laid the groundwork for his promotion to Technical Manager, demonstrating his technical acumen and leadership potential for leading the Tube Laser Cutting team.
Stepping into Management
Transitioning into a managerial role brought new responsibilities and challenges for Nick. He embraced the opportunity to not only develop his own skills but also to foster growth within his team. Nick's leadership style is characterised by approachability and support, ensuring that his team members feel valued and heard. We recognised his adaptability and forward-thinking approach, which positioned him as a natural fit for leadership.
Nick has expressed gratitude for the chance to take on more challenges, noting that these opportunities have pushed him to become a better team member and manager. He worked diligently to become an approachable leader, ensuring open lines of communication with his team. He is consistently on the lookout for future challenges that could further enhance his skills and contribute to the team's success.
Time as Technical Manager
During his two-year tenure as Technical Manager, Nick took on a range of significant challenges. Initially promoted from his role as a CAD/CAM Engineer, he shifted his focus to broader technical responsibilities. His first major task in this role was improving the department's performance. He undertook a thorough analysis of existing workflows and identified a key area for improvement: the department's reliance on paper-based processes. Nick spearheaded the transition to a fully digital and paperless environment, developing a bespoke electronic system that greatly enhanced traceability. Orders could now be tracked from the machine operator right back to the supplier, streamlining operations and improving productivity.
Nick didn't stop at digitalisation. He enhanced the stock management system, integrating it with the new electronic processes. This improved visibility across the department, allowing for real-time tracking of stock and equipment usage. The new system became an integral part of Top Tubes, drastically improving operational efficiency and reducing error rates.
Nick's influence extended beyond systems and processes. He played a vital role in recruiting talented individuals who shared the vision of advancing Top Tubes' laser operations. His ability to bring the right people into the company, from CAD professionals to shop floor operators, was instrumental in building a cohesive and skilled team. These changes would have been challenging to implement without a team that fully understood and believed in Top Tubes' vision. Nick's leadership has been key to fostering this belief, ensuring that the team was on board with new initiatives and committed to driving the department forward.
Upholding Core Values
Nick’s efforts have been closely aligned with Top Tubes' core values, which are at the heart of our success. These values drive our pursuit of excellence, fostering an environment where employees are empowered to reach their full potential. Nick has been a strong advocate for these values, integrating them into daily operations within the laser department. His approach to management, emphasising trust, teamwork, and performance, echoes the values that have been ingrained into the Top Tubes ethos. For more insight into these guiding principles, you can explore the work of Ritu Nargas, our HR Manager, who has been instrumental in embedding these values into our culture.
Enhancing Departmental Performance
The implementation of the paperless system was just the beginning. Nick introduced the Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) metric, a system that tracks the performance and efficiency of each machine. OEE has become a vital part of our departmental strategy, providing a machine-based rating that is reviewed weekly. It allows us to identify areas for improvement and ensure optimal performance across all operations.
When a department achieves its targets, they are recognised with a bonus. This not only incentivises high performance but also fosters a culture of collaboration and engagement within the team. These measures have led to noticeable improvements in productivity and morale, reinforcing the laser department's role in Top Tubes' success.
Overcoming Industry Challenges
The laser cutting industry is highly competitive, prompting us to reflect on what makes Top Tubes stand out. Nick has been central to this introspection, focusing on efficiency, precision, and quality. In response to the industry's high influx of laser machines, Nick and the team carefully considered what sets Top Tubes apart. They identified that it wasn't just the machinery that mattered, but the overall process and the people behind it.
Under Nick’s direction, Top Tubes has placed a strong emphasis on meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every product, from the cutting process to final packaging, meets the highest standards. His focus on uniformity and quality control ensures that our products leave the factory looking exceptional, consistently exceeding customer expectations.
Looking Ahead as Laser Operations Manager
Nick’s promotion to Laser Operations Manager marks a new chapter, with a vision to further enhance our laser operations. Thanks to the success of our tube laser cutting services, we have invested in an additional laser cutting machine. This investment aims to increase production capacity and streamline customer orders, allowing us to make an even more positive impact on our clients' needs.
One of Nick's upcoming initiatives is the implementation of the 5S methodology within the laser department. This approach focuses on workplace organisation and efficiency, comprising:
- Sort: Eliminating unnecessary items not needed for a job.
- Set in Order: Organising what's left neatly in the area.
- Shine: Cleaning the areas to make them more visually appealing.
- Standardise: Regular cleaning and maintenance of procedures.
- Sustain: Keeping up good levels consistently.
Nick plans to trial the 5S methodology in the laser department before rolling it out company-wide, aiming to further enhance efficiency and safety.
Continuing the Drive for Excellence
Nick Cook's journey at Top Tubes illustrates our commitment to fostering talent and driving operational excellence. From spearheading the digital transformation of our laser department to recruiting a team that embodies our core values, Nick has been a driving force behind our success. His innovative mindset and hands-on leadership have transformed our laser department, setting high standards for efficiency, quality, and employee development. As Nick looks ahead in his new role, we are eager to see how his vision and strategies will continue to shape the future of Top Tubes.
Commitment to Training
Training at Top Tubes has seen significant advancements in recent years. As Laser Operations Manager, Nick is now responsible for the training of all department members, from CAD professionals to shop floor operators. He has worked tirelessly to ensure that the training programme is as thorough as possible. Nick is confident that, with the right mindset, even someone with no prior laser experience can reach a Level 3 proficiency within 18 months.
The training matrix Nick developed comprises three levels:
- Level 1 - Beginner
- Level 2 - Intermediate
- Level 3 - Expert
Once individuals reach Level 3, they can be considered for further progression, such as becoming shop floor supervisors. This structured training approach has been vital in fostering a skilled and adaptable workforce. Nick is constantly looking for ways to refine laser cutting procedures and enhance the training matrix to meet evolving needs.
Get in touch
Top Tubes is always on hand to assist customers with both improving onloading and offloading products offered by Top Tubes. Contact Us to see how we can improve your Health and Safety Practices.
Future Implementations
Top Tubes is set to implement several key initiatives to elevate our health and safety standards. A new first aid room will provide immediate medical assistance, enhancing safety and fostering a sense of care among our community. We also aim to make our health and safety documentation more user-friendly and easier to understand for everyone in our workplace.