Francis Gallagher

Location

Winchester - United Kingdom

Background

Francis “Franko” Gallagher became part of the Rochem team in 2023 as a Product Quality Engineer, contributing more than 24 years of diverse engineering expertise. He thrives on the camaraderie of a production team and welcomes the challenges that come with it. Working closely with Duncan, the senior engineering and technical manager, he helps solve problems and oversees our projects' design, specifications, and production.

Franko's journey into Engineering began at the age of 11 when, together with his father, he entered Robot Wars and built his first robot, becoming the youngest participant. This early experience evolved into the creation of increasingly advanced robots, leading to international victories. His passion for problem-solving and aiding others led him to become the youngest Lifeboat Coxswain in the UK, dedicating all his free time outside of school to conducting rescues and saving lives, often repairing boats and engines on the spot. His endeavors also took him on expeditions to various locations worldwide, including Mojave, Death Valley, Sahara, Greenland, and Germany, where he learned survival skills and 4x4 operations from military and search and rescue specialists.

In the initial stages of his career, Franko served as a Professional Sound and Systems Engineer for major festivals and corporate events, as well as an STCW Marine Engineer on multiple commercial vessels, overseeing major dry dock refits and the day-to-day running and management of the vessels. In his tenure onboard one ship, he maintained a “0-day downtime” accolade over a 2-year period. He also worked as a Radar Survey Engineer for a reputable marine and risk company, overseeing the installation and operation of surveillance equipment in remote islands and lighthouses.

Later, he discovered his passion for managing a facility (focused on 24-hour posture management for complex disabilities) and designing and manufacturing bespoke medical equipment – using his attention to detail, specialist welding and manual machining skills to “regain their independence”.

When he is not at work, you can find Franko dedicating time to his passion for working on his Land Rovers, watching engineering videos on YouTube, engaging in weird and wonderful engineering projects with friends, volunteering at the lifeboat, or exploring the forest with his wife and dog.