Lewis Stanners, a 22-year-old dyer at tartan manufacturer Lochcarron of Scotland, has recently undertaken specialised training in boilerhouse operations, with support from UKFT’s Young Textile Technician Fund.

The initiative aims to bolster Lewis’s skills and contribute to the overall improvement of Lochcarron’s performance, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing downtime. Lochcarron recognises the critical role that skilled employees play in maintaining seamless operations and the investment in training aligns with the company’s commitment to continuous improvement.

Lewis participated in a comprehensive two-day boiler operation, maintenance and safety awareness course, facilitated by Cochran Services, and obtained LOGIC certification.

Lewis explained “It’s allowed me to develop new skills at work, which I will use on a daily basis.”

The programme proved invaluable for Lewis, offering him essential skills in an area where he previously lacked experience. This additional knowledge supplements his existing expertise in the dyehouse, enhancing his ability to manage this function confidently, particularly in the absence of his supervisor.

With a heritage dating back to 1892, Lochcarron of Scotland is recognised as a global leader in the manufacture of tartan. The company is proud of its team of skilled craftspeople, who design, dye, warp, weave, mend and tailor a wide range of Scottish tartans and textiles. From kilt to catwalk, Lochcarron of Scotland champions traditional tartan fabric manufacturing whilst continuing to innovate, designing bespoke creations for major international fashion houses.

Fiona Guthrie, Senior Dyer at Lochcarron, added: “This training has been a win-win, not only for the company but for developing the skills of Lewis and I further.”

In a move to improve operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact, Lochcarron recently made a significant investment in modernising its boiler technology. The old, oversized, and inefficient boiler system caused frequent downtime due to maintenance issues and excessive gas usage. The new, tailor-made boiler system is specifically designed for the site, offering optimised efficiency and reduced gas consumption, aligning with the company’s sustainability goals.

Fiona and Lewis are now responsible for daily testing and regular maintenance of the boiler. With two competent employees trained in dyehouse boiler operations on-site, the company anticipates reduced disruptions, minimised delays, and increased overall production. The utilisation of the Young Textile Technician Fund has proven to be instrumental in nurturing trainee development and securing the future growth of the company.

The Young Textile Technician Fund will cover 50% of the costs of in-depth training for young textile technicians, thanks to the generous support of The Worshipful Company of Weavers, The Worshipful Company of Clothworkers and The Worshipful Company of Drapers.

The Young Textile Technician Fund is now open to businesses applying to train textile technicians under the age of 35. To find out more, email info@ukft.org

Want to learn more about the Young Textile Technician Fund? Click on the link below:

Young Textile Technician Fund