Behind the scenes: how Chesterfield makes everyday life possible
By Ann Fomukong-Boden, board member of Destination Chesterfield and local business owner
When you think of engineering, you might picture hard hats and heavy machinery. But Chesterfield offers much more. As a local business owner and engineer, I see our makers, designers and technology experts quietly improving our everyday lives.
Our architects and engineers work with digital specialists to power regeneration projects, both locally and nationally. Our manufacturers produce everything from food and packaging to custom CCTV.
At Kakou, we proudly contribute to this story. We specialise in technology that helps people with disabilities access mainstream culture, heritage, and wellbeing activities.
Recently, we collaborated with local charity Junction Arts to create an interactive tool that collects audience data at events and transforms it into bespoke artworks for participants to take home. It’s a fusion of engineering, design, and creativity that makes the arts more inclusive. All designed and built right here in Chesterfield.
Nine more makers with purpose
Chesterfield’s manufacturers and engineers make many things – from iron bars to flood defences.
AECOM’s 300-strong team works on UK-wide infrastructure. After last year’s floods, they helped design local resilience schemes to protect homes, schools, and businesses.
MTM Products makes industrial labels and signage used worldwide – from emergency exits to home appliances.
System Q creates bespoke CCTV solutions and support. The team helps major retailers as well as schools, police and government bodies.
Eyesiteview specialises in interactive digital tools, which bring properties to life, supporting local and national housing developers.
Mould Ability in Staveley turns ideas into products, crafting custom moulds for housing and theme park rides. MSE Hiller’s centrifuge technology helps food producers clean and process ingredients – including your frozen peas.
Brampton Brewery revived its historic name in 2007 with the rebuilding of a precision mill next to the original site that had been closed for 50 years. They now brew up to 10,000 pints a week.
Northern Tea Merchants has blended fine teas and coffees for over 90 years, supplying retailers and hospitality venues across the UK.
United Cast Bar’s high-quality continuous cast iron bars are easier to machine than steel. It saves time for car manufacturers compared to steel.
Engineering a better future for Chesterfield
Chesterfield’s spirit of innovation and inclusion means these companies shape more than products. They shape lives by offering stable jobs and apprenticeships for local families, giving our young people a real future.
So, next time you enjoy a treat baked by Jackson’s, pass the Growth Sculpture on Horns Bridge Roundabout, or spot a safety label in our shops, remember that local talent made it happen.
I aim to inspire the next generation of thinkers, makers, and doers, and I hope you’ll help.
To learn more about Chesterfield makers, including tours for schools, visit: https://www.chesterfeld.co.uk/made
Find more Chesterfield manufacturers and engineers: Our Chesterfield Champions | Destination Chesterfield
Ann Fomukong Boden
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