Lewis Jordan

At Velocetec, I work as a CMM Quality Inspector, specialising in the inspection of precision components using Coordinate Measuring Machines. My core responsibilities include programming and operating CMMs to carry out in-process, final, and First Article inspections to tight tolerances, ensuring compliance with both customer and industry standards.

Beyond CMM operation, I support a wide range of quality functions. This includes completing PPAPs, managing our monthly Quality Review meetings, and attending customer audits where required. I also oversee external calibration of inspection equipment, manage internal booking and allocation of tools to other team members, and contribute to writing internal processes and procedures to support continuous improvement.

Additionally, I’m responsible for organising despatch, raising despatch notes and Certificates of Conformity (CofCs), and regularly meeting with customers to discuss quality requirements and concerns. I liaise with suppliers to resolve quality issues, investigate both internal and external Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

At Hi-Tech Precision, I held the position of Chief Quality Inspector, where I was responsible for managing the Inspection Department and overseeing day-to-day quality operations. A key part of my role was ensuring that time-sensitive components were prioritised effectively, working closely with the production team to maintain workflow and minimise delays.

My inspection duties covered 1st-off, in-process, final, and First Article Inspections, using a range of manual and mechanical measurement methods — including micrometers, verniers, height gauges, and CMMs. I was also responsible for handling Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), processing customer complaints and supplier rejects, and coordinating responses as part of our continuous improvement efforts.

In addition, I regularly attended Quality and Management Meetings to raise concerns, report on trends, and contribute to quality-focused decision-making. I also took an active role in training and mentoring junior inspectors, helping to build a strong and reliable inspection team.

Following the company’s transition from CJ Tools to FHS Precision, I was promoted to Quality Inspector. In this role, I took on greater responsibility across all areas of the Quality department. I continued performing a wide range of inspections, but with increased involvement in more complex components and processes. I was responsible for final inspection, supporting internal audits, assisting with root cause investigations, and maintaining quality documentation to meet customer and ISO standards.

Previously working at CJ Tools, a precision machining company, I took on a hands-on role in Quality Control, learning and performing a wide range of inspection tasks. This included, but wasn’t limited to: Goods In/Out Inspection, Subcontract Inspection, First Article Inspection Reporting (FAIR), and 1st-off/daily in-process inspections. I carried out these duties using a variety of manual and advanced inspection tools — including micrometers, verniers, height gauges, thread and plug gauges — as well as programming and operating two Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs). Throughout my time in this role, I developed a strong understanding of inspection techniques, measurement standards, and the importance of precision in a fast-paced engineering environment.

Working for the Booth Group, specifically within the Engineering branch of the company, I focused on Sheet Metal, Fabrication, and Welding. My role involved managing jobs from start to finish — raising quotations, sales orders, and works orders, receiving and processing supplier quotes into purchase orders, all through the FactoryMaster system. I also oversaw the progress of jobs across the factory and organised final despatch.

Following the completion of my Apprenticeship, I was promoted to Production Assistant, working closely with the Production Manager. In this role, I was responsible for keeping customers updated on their work in progress, using the 123Insight MRP system to raise Purchase Orders and Work Orders, monitor job progress, and generate despatch notes and Certificates of Conformity.

Ranging across the Civilian, Aerospace, Defence, and Marine sectors — my first two years at Smith & Jewell were spent as a Shop Floor Apprentice, working across all areas of the business. This included Sheet Metal, Fabrication, Welding, Machining, Design, Estimation, Accounts, and Production. During this time, I was also trained to carry out First Article Inspection Reports, later advancing to complete them to Aerospace Standard AS9102. From there, I began to focus more on the Quality Assurance side of the business.