Internal NewsSeptember 30, 2025September 30, 2025

Championing Wellbeing in the Data Centre Industry

🌿 Championing Wellbeing in the Data Centre Industry 🌿

AF Switchgear was proud to be one of the sponsors of last week’s Regenerate Wellness UK event — an inspiring initiative focused on the human cost of working in the data centre sector.

Our team, many of whom are set to begin their Mental Health First Aid training in January, had a brilliant day. They thoroughly enjoyed the activities on offer and found the talks particularly insightful. The sessions provided valuable guidance on recognising signs that someone may be struggling, and how best to support colleagues in the workplace.

This learning will be invaluable as our team members step into their First Aider roles next year, helping us to create a culture where mental health is recognised, respected, and supported.

We are proud to stand alongside others in the industry who are making wellbeing a priority. Thank you to the organisers for hosting such an impactful and meaningful event.

Internal NewsSeptember 10, 2025September 10, 2025

National Data Centre Day 12th September 2025

National Data Centre Day 2025

Powering Progress in the UK’s Digital Future

The 12^th of September 2025 marks the very first National Data Centre Day (NDCD) – a new awareness day dedicated to recognising the essential role data centres play in powering the UK’s digital economy, supporting Artificial Intelligence (AI), and keeping society connected.

Why the 12^th of September?

This significant date marks one year since data centres were officially recognised as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) by the UK Government – placing them alongside water, energy, and transport as vital services that keep the country running.

Why Data Centres Matter

Every time we send a text, share a photo on social media, stream a film, or make an online payment, a data centre makes it possible. These facilities are the backbone of modern life, enabling:

· AI and Cloud Computing – powering everything from smart assistants to advanced machine learning models.

· Essential Services – supporting healthcare, finance, education, and communications.

· Innovation and Growth – driving the UK’s ambitions in digital transformation and the wider tech economy.

And yet, despite being so vital, data centres often remain invisible to the public.

That’s why National Data Centre Day is so important. It shines a spotlight on this industry, the people behind it, and the innovations shaping a more connected, sustainable, and digital future.

Why support National Data Centre Day?

Supporting National Data Centre Day is about recognising how digital infrastructure underpins everything we do. By shining a light on the industry, we can:

· Improve public understanding of the role data centres play

· Attract the next generation of talent into STEM and IT careers

· Highlight sustainability progress, from energy efficiency to renewable power

Visit the NDCD website to find out more – https://nationaldatacentreday.com/

Follow the official NDCD page on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/nationaldatacentreday/

Internal NewsSeptember 9, 2025September 9, 2025

Apprentice Intake 2025

🌟 Investing in the Next Generation at AF Switchgear Ltd 🌟

This week we proudly welcomed our latest cohort of apprentices. 🧑🏼‍🎓👩🏻‍🎓

Since 1981, our apprenticeship scheme has been at the heart of AF Switchgear, providing young people with the skills, experience, and confidence to build long and rewarding careers in our industry.

This year marks our largest intake yet:

• 10 × Electrical Panel Builders ⚡️
• 1 × Metal Fabricator ⚙️
• 1 × Business Support Apprentice 📧
• 2 × Accounts Assistants 🧾

Through our valued partnership with Vision West Nottinghamshire College, our apprentices benefit from a blend of classroom learning and real-world experience, supported every step of the way by our expert teams.

💡 A special thank you goes to TLA Distribution Ltd and Cembre Group for equipping our apprentices with the tools and CPD-accredited training that ensure AF Switchgear continues to deliver industry-leading quality.

At AF Switchgear, we believe apprenticeships are more than just training — they are an investment in people, innovation, and the future of UK engineering. We wish each and every one of our new Apprentices the very best of luck in their journey with us. 🍀

Here’s to supporting the next generation of talent! ⭐️

Internal NewsSeptember 9, 2025September 9, 2025

Another addition to our Veteran Club !

🎉 Celebrating 25 Years of Service at AF Switchgear 🎉

Last week we proudly recognised Pete Severn as he reached his 25-year anniversary with AF Switchgear and joins our Veterans Club.

Pete first joined us in September 2000 as an Electrical Fitter Adult Trainee, grateful for the opportunity to re-train and build a career in a new trade. Over the years, he has taken on a variety of roles, progressing to Team Leader in our Copper Fabrication Department, where he played a key role in driving efficiencies and supporting copper design development.

Most recently, Pete has been seconded to our Engineering Department, where his knowledge and experience continue to contribute to standardisation and development projects.

At his award presentation, Pete expressed his thanks to the company for the support and opportunities he has received throughout his career. His message to colleagues was clear:

“AF Switchgear creates opportunities for personal growth and career development — and he encouraged everyone to seize them when they arise.”

Congratulations, Pete, on this fantastic milestone — and thank you for your dedication and contribution over the last 25 years. 👏

Internal NewsJuly 8, 2025July 10, 2025

Our Veteran Club is forever growing !

🎉 Celebrating 25 Years of Service at AF Switchgear 🎉

This week, we’re incredibly proud to welcome three more valued team members into our Veteran Club — marking 25 years of dedication and service to the company. An outstanding achievement that reflects their hard work, loyalty, and growth over the years.

Please join us in congratulating:

🔧 Mark Stone

•10 July 2000: Joined as an Electrical Apprentice

•6 August 2002: Promoted to Approved Electrical Fitter

•1 September 2005: Completed apprenticeship and became Electrical Fitter

•8 March 2018: Promoted to Team Leader

•22 June 2021: Moved to Intermediate Applications Engineer (Engineering Dept.)

•1 January 2024: Promoted to Contracts Engineer

🔌 Karl Waltho

•10 July 2000: Joined as an Apprentice Electrical Fitter/Wireman

•17 January 2005: Completed apprenticeship and became Electrical Fitter

•2008–2010: Worked in Engineering & on the shop floor

•1 January 2011: Appointed Applications Engineer

•1 December 2017: Moved to Site Services as Site Services Engineer

•1 October 2020: Promoted to Technician

•9 August 2021: Transferred to VAR Services as Technical Engineer

⚙️ Paul Hodgkinson

•10 July 2000: Joined as an Electrical Apprentice

•1 September 2005: Completed apprenticeship and became Electrical Fitter

•15 December 2017: Promoted to Approved Electrical Fitter

•6 February 2023: Promoted to Team Leader

👏 A huge well done to Mark, Karl and Paul — your commitment and contributions over the past 25 years have helped shape the success and culture of AF Switchgear.

Internal NewsJuly 8, 2025July 8, 2025

Congratulations to our Tough Mudders !

🫸 Pushing Limits, Making a Difference: Congratulations to Our Tough Mudders! 👏

This past weekend, a team of our incredible operatives went above and beyond — not just in their work, but in mud, sweat, and sheer determination.

They took on the legendary Tough Mudder 15k challenge to raise funds in the memory of Luke Wistow and we couldn’t be prouder! ❤️

From scaling walls to crawling through mud pits, our team showed what grit, teamwork, and resilience truly look like. It wasn’t easy — and that’s the point. 🧗‍♂️

They chose discomfort. They chose the hard route. And they did it for a cause that matters deeply to all of us. ❤️

Please donate via the link below ⤵️

JUST GIVING

⭐ To everyone who ran, you’ve reminded us that together, we’re capable of so much more than we think. ⭐

Internal NewsJuly 8, 2025July 8, 2025

West Notts College ~ Gene Haas Centre for Advanced Manufacturing

AF Switchgear were proud to attend the official opening of the UK’s first Gene Haas Centre for Advanced Manufacturing at Vision West Nottinghamshire College last week.

This impressive facility has been two years in the making, and it’s fantastic to see the vision now fully realised. As a longstanding partner of the college, we’re especially excited about the new dedicated switchgear training area, which gives students valuable insight into our industry.

Through our apprenticeship programmes and experienced worker route qualifications, we’re committed to supporting skills development and encouraging more students to pursue a future in electrical engineering and manufacturing.

Our close collaboration with West Notts College continues to play a key role in shaping that next generation, keep an eye on our posts for the new AF Switchgear academy that will commence September 2025.

Thanks to everybody involved including TLA Distribution Ltd for your continued support.

Internal NewsJune 23, 2025June 23, 2025

Employee Achievements

The 2025 Adidas Stockholm Marathon took place on Saturday 31st May, drawing over 24,000 runners from around the globe to the Swedish capital. 🇸🇪

Our very own Harry Whetton (pictured above) participated and his overall stats were :

📍 Distance – 45.25Km (28.1 miles)

⏱️ Elapsed Time – 4:34:29 (42.195KM (marathon) time 4:14:46)

🏃 Average Pace – 6:04 /km

Well done Harry Whetton we are all very proud of you 👏🏽

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Thomas Myslinski (pictured below) Completes Ironman 70.3

We’re thrilled to celebrate Thomas Myslinski, who completed the Ironman 70.3 in Bolton on Sunday, 8th June—a race that includes a 1.9 km open-water swim, 90 km cycle, and 21.1 km run, all within an 8.5-hour time limit.

Thomas achieved this in 7hours 4minutes 35 seconds.

Thomas dedicated nine months to swim training and trained six times a week for the cycling and running segments. His athletic background includes nearly 20 years of competitive volleyball in Poland and the UK National League.

This incredible achievement brings him one step closer to his ultimate goal: to finish a triathlon on the distance of full Ironman which is 3.8km swim, 180km cycle and 42.2km run.

Well done, Thomas—we’re proud of your dedication and determination!

Internal NewsMay 9, 2025July 8, 2025

Adam joins our Veterans Club

This week, we proudly welcomed another member into our Veterans Club at AF Switchgear—congratulations to Adam Pearse on reaching an incredible milestone: 25 years of dedicated service.

When I asked Adam to share how his journey with us began, he recounted:

“I found AF’s number in the Yellow Pages, gave them a call, and after dropping off my CV, I was interviewed that same afternoon and offered a job. After working a week’s notice at my previous company, I joined AF Switchgear as a Fitter and was soon promoted to Approved Fitter.

One of the supervisors learned I had experience with PLC testing and quickly involved me in a contract that required those skills. From that point on, testing became my main focus, eventually leading to my current role as Quality Assurance Technician, which I’ve held since 2018.

Twenty-five years? It certainly feels like it—but they’ve been twenty-five great ones.”

Thank you, Adam, for your commitment, expertise, and the vital role you’ve played in our continued success. Here’s to many more milestones ahead!

Internal NewsMay 2, 2025May 2, 2025

AF Group HSE Committee

Members at the recent meeting of the AF Group HSE committee celebrated receiving the ISO 45001 OH&S certification following successful stage 1 and 2 assessments by the BSI.

The recognition demonstrates the company’s ongoing development in structured management systems adding to our existing accreditations with ISO standards 9001 and 14001.

The working group which represents all areas of the business meets to discuss matters relating to Environmental and OH&S in order to protect, maintain and improve the Groups management system performance.

Well done to all the team at AF Switchgear