Darren Poultney

Research Technologist

My involvement with Cogent Power started in 1998, when I was offered a 12-month placement on the Year In Industry scheme. This followed my A-levels, when I had been studying Physics, Chemistry and Maths. The course presented me with an opportunity to take my interest in these subjects and put them into practice in a Research/Technical environment.

Following a successful year, Cogent offered to sponsor me whilst I studied for my Physics degree at Birmingham University. This enabled me to gain my qualification, whilst also returning to Orb Electrical Steels to continue my project work during my holidays.

After graduating, I was accepted onto a 4-year Engineering Doctorate (EngD.) scheme. Although the academic side of the course was based at Swansea University, a significant proportion of my time was spent undertaking the practical aspect of my project work on site, where I spent time evaluating analysis techniques for the determination of surface layer composition.

I returned to the company to take up a permanent role based in the Development and Market Research Department. My main responsibilities in this position are monitoring the latest developments in electrical steel technology and managing medium to long-term projects, specifically the development of a novel tension coating for the final coating and thermal flattening line. My development hasn't stopped there as I plan to do a placement as a Technologist to improve my practical product knowledge.