Meet The Team - Paddy Dinn

At BCW Design & Manufacture, we have a team of skilled and passionate professionals driving our success. Today, we’re getting to know Paddy Dinn, our Tooling Sales Engineer.

From his first steps into manufacturing to the most rewarding projects he’s worked on, Paddy shares what drives his passion for the industry, the challenges he faces, and the trends that excite him. Plus, we get an insight into his other passion working as a part time on-call firefighter, balancing precision engineering with serving his local community

What inspired you to get into manufacturing?  

I’ve always been fascinated by how things are made. The idea of transforming raw materials into high-quality products through precise engineering and innovation drew me in. Manufacturing is the backbone of so many industries, and being part of that process is incredibly rewarding. 

What's been the most rewarding project you’ve worked on so far at BCW?  

Dealing with some of BCW's prime aerospace customers allows me an insight into prototype components. A first of its kind rout tool for Spirit AeroSystems with full design and manufacture was a highlight for me. 

How did you get started in your current role?  

I started out working at BCW Engineering, which is primarily automotive, before moving to BCW Design & Manufacture, first joining the projects team and later transitioning to the sales team as a Tooling Sales Engineer. 

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone new to the manufacturing industry? 

I was once told that you can be taught everything you need to know about engineering, but you can't teach enthusiasm. 

What trends are you most excited about in manufacturing right now?  

The increase in defence contracts is driving the production of unmanned vehicles. Whoever cracks the code will revolutionise the industry as we know it. 

Are you more on the technical or operational side, or a mix of both? 

One thing I love about the role is its diversity, we can be in a dusty foundry one day offering modern day tooling solutions to old school businesses and manufacturing pins which locate into state-of-the-art production lines the next.  

What’s one challenge you’re currently facing in your role at BCW?   

Supply chain disruptions continue to be a challenge. Balancing efficiency while ensuring we have the right materials at the right time is an ongoing effort. We're leveraging technology and data analytics to make supply chains more resilient. 

How has technology changed your day-to-day work in the last few years? 

Technology has made everything more data driven. From CRMs to real-time production monitoring, we now make decisions faster and more accurately. BCW's recent investment in HubSpot allows us to track enquiries and as a result offer our customers a better service 

Is there a specific area of manufacturing (automation, supply chain, quality, etc.) you’re passionate about?  

I have worked in aerospace since I was 16 as an apprentice however my recent transition into defence and new generation fighter jets has taken my love for the industry to another level.  

What’s something that interests you outside of work? 

Whilst working at BCW, I also serve as a part time retained (on-call) firefighter, I’m not based at the fire station full time, but I carry a pager and respond to emergencies whenever needed. It’s a role that requires dedication, training, and a real passion for helping others. 

My key responsibilities include responding to emergencies, where I am called out to fires, road traffic collisions, rescues, and other incidents. Ensuring community fire safety is another crucial aspect of my role. This involves conducting home fire safety visits, educating the public, and fitting smoke alarms to prevent fire-related hazards. 

Regular training and drills are essential to maintaining my skills and preparedness for various situations. Attending these sessions ensures that I am always ready to handle emergencies effectively. Additionally, maintaining firefighting equipment is a key responsibility. I routinely check and service equipment to ensure it is in proper working condition and ready for use when needed. 

As a retained firefighter, I must be available and committed to my duties. Typically, retained firefighters live or work within a set distance of their station and carry a pager to respond quickly when called. They usually commit to a certain number of hours per week, which can vary depending on their availability. Retained firefighters play a crucial role in rural and smaller communities where full-time fire cover may not be needed 24/7. They receive the same training as full-time firefighters and are essential for ensuring emergency response in their area. 

Firefighters within Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) have a broad range of responsibilities beyond firefighting. Their duties include responding to fires in buildings, vehicles, and industrial settings. They also perform rescue operations, assisting in road traffic collisions, freeing trapped individuals, and providing critical trauma care. 

Being a retained firefighter is challenging, but it’s also one of the most fulfilling roles I’ve ever taken on. It’s about teamwork, resilience, and serving the people around me. Every call out is a chance to make a difference. 

Watch this space for further updates from the team or follow the BCW Design & Manufacture Page https://www.linkedin.com/company/bcwdesignandmanufacture