Thursday, November 1
60 years not long enough for engineer
Spending close to a lifetime at the cutting edge of engineering isn't long enough for Bernie King.
The 75-year-old has spent 60 years working for Hawera firm Croucher & Crowder, and given half a chance he would offer them 60 more.
"I was here for the 25th, 50th and 75th anniversaries," he said.
"I had offered my apologies, in advance, for the 100th. I am reconsidering that now."
Starting out as an apprentice in 1952, at 15 years old, Mr King soon became a key figure in the company's success, including 25 years as managing director, as it expanded from 10 staff to 70 and became a nationally recognised enterprise.
He was instrumental in erecting the vent stack on the Maui platform in the 1980s as engineers grappled with crane barges that couldn't reach.
"For some years prior to the Maui oil field development we erected oil rigs for Shell Todd. They asked us to come up with an idea, so I designed a method which used the vent as the tower crane and built it up."
It is these simple, yet sound, engineering principles which still hold Mr King's attention.
"I just enjoy the challenges we have here."
He has also designed and patented a golf hole groomer which has been patented in Britain, New Zealand and the United States.
But his greatest legacy will be the 100 or more apprentices he has helped mould.
"The most rewarding thing is to see what those apprentices have achieved elsewhere in New Zealand and overseas.
"They hold very responsible positions in industries around the world.
"It gives you a lot of pride."
When he's not tinkering out back Mr King can be found on a golf course or with a fishing rod in his hands.
He said his wife, Maureen, was more than happy for him to be at work and saw no need for him to retire just yet.
As for that golf handicap - don't ask.
- © Fairfax NZ News
"I just enjoy the challenges we have here."
LAIRD HARPER
Last updated 05:00 31/10/2012
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