Patrick McCormick: Six Months of Growth as an Engineer Surveyor at Carn Engineering

Patrick McCormick has marked his first six months at Carn Engineering with the kind of impact and enthusiasm that reflect the very best of our team. Patrick’s reflections offer an authentic look at life within our growing team and the standards we’re proud to uphold.

Q1. What surprised you most about the role or the company?

What surprised me most was the sheer variety within the role and the level of professional trust placed in me from an early stage. In just over six months, I’ve been trained and developed to become a Competent Person capable of making critical engineering judgements.

With the guidance of our experienced professional engineers, Carn demonstrates a real commitment to consistency and strict adherence to technical standards. The company has helped me shift my mindset from thinking statically to thinking in a more predictive and proactive way. Our approach to risk management focuses on prevention — asking “what could happen if we don’t act?” rather than simply “was the rule followed?” That proactive culture is something that genuinely sets Carn apart.

Q2. What does a “typical” day look like—and how much does it vary?

There really is no typical day at Carn — and that’s one of the best aspects of the role. Our diverse client base means I might be travelling to Omagh or Newry one day, or working just minutes from home the next. Our engineers are strategically located across the country to ensure clients receive a rapid and professional response.

The inspections themselves are equally varied. I could be examining lifting equipment at a vehicle garage in the morning and conducting a smoke clearance test within a blasting enclosure for an LEV system in the afternoon. The role offers a strong balance between site-based inspections and detailed technical reporting, which keeps the work both engaging and professionally rewarding.

Q3. What do Carn clients value most about the inspection service?

Our clients value the high standard of service we consistently deliver across a wide range of disciplines. We pride ourselves on being professional, approachable, and accountable in everything we do.

Carn engineers understand the real-world challenges and pressures faced in the workplace. From the very first phone call to arrange a convenient inspection time, through to delivering clear, detailed, and practical reports, we aim to make the entire process smooth and supportive. Our reports are written to be actionable and easy to understand, helping clients maintain compliance while minimising disruption to their operations.

Q4. Can you share an example where an inspection reduced risk or downtime?

LEV inspections are an area I take particular pride in, as they often require detailed analysis and careful attention. Many of my inspections have been within woodworking facilities where effective extraction of sawdust and wood shavings is critical.

By producing system schematics, we create long-term value for the client and for future engineers. These drawings clearly show test points, airflow measurements, and fan locations, improving traceability and ongoing maintenance.

In one case, airflow testing identified duct velocities that were too low. A simple recommendation — adjusting dampers on certain machinery — significantly improved system performance. Straightforward, practical recommendations like this help prevent future production downtime while ensuring a safer working environment. It’s a great example of how thorough inspections can deliver both safety and operational benefits.

Q5. What equipment and industries have you inspected so far?

I’ve had the opportunity to work across a wide range of industries throughout the country. One day I may be on a construction site in Coleraine, the next inspecting vehicle lifts in Newcastle, or visiting a manufacturing facility close to home.

For LOLER inspections, I have examined vehicle lifts, overhead cranes, MEWPs, and passenger lifts. My LEV inspections have taken place in joinery workshops, powder-coating facilities, quarries, welding workshops, and metal fabrication environments. This breadth of exposure has significantly broadened my technical knowledge and industry understanding.

Q6. What technical skills have you developed most?

Since joining Carn last summer, my technical development has accelerated significantly. I have been introduced to a wide range of regulations across multiple sectors and can now apply them confidently in varied and sometimes challenging environments.

I’ve developed strong competence in inspecting construction machinery under different site conditions, ensuring compliance with both safety legislation and client expectations. My in-depth LEV training has given me a clear understanding of system design, airflow requirements, and performance standards. This knowledge allows me to confidently explain to clients why certain flow rates, capture distances, and system adjustments are essential — not just for compliance, but for protecting their workforce and maintaining operational efficiency.

Q7. How was the support when you first joined Carn?

The support I received from day one has been exceptional. Experienced Engineer Surveyors are always just a phone call away, whether for technical advice, guidance on documenting a defect, or simply discussing how a system should be performing.

While the initial training was comprehensive, Carn ensured I was given the time and encouragement needed to build confidence before working independently. The investment in structured training and mentorship clearly reflects Carn’s commitment to maintaining the highest inspection standards.

Q8. What genuinely differentiates Carn Engineering?

Carn Engineering prioritises quality over quantity. Our focus is on delivering detailed, accurate, and clearly written reports that provide real value to clients.

We combine strong technical governance with practical site experience, ensuring our advice is both compliant and realistic. Clients return to Carn because they trust the consistency of our service and the professionalism of our engineers. We aim to support clients proactively, helping them address potential issues before they become problems.

Q9. What are you looking forward to in the next 6–12 months?

I’m looking forward to continuing my professional growth, particularly by taking on more complex inspections such as PUWER assessments. I’m also excited to further strengthen the client relationships I’ve built over the past six months as Carn continues to expand its services.

Receiving positive feedback from clients after delivering an inspection report is extremely rewarding and reinforces the value of the work we do. As my experience grows, so too does my confidence in making sound technical judgements — something that will support my development as an Engineer Surveyor for many years to come.

Q10. What would you say to an engineer thinking of joining Carn?

Carn has been an outstanding place for my professional development within the engineering sector. I would encourage any engineer to seize the opportunity to join the Carn team.

There is a strong culture of trust, professional respect, and technical excellence. You are empowered to make sound engineering judgements while knowing that support is always available. The company values both technical ability and customer service, and there is genuine opportunity to grow and progress. Carn Engineering provides the platform to develop into a highly competent and confident Engineer Surveyor — and to build a long-term, rewarding career.