Senior Test Technican, Harry Wardman, retires after 28 years at Leeds-based Airedale

Harry joined Airedale, following 22 years as a field-based electrician, in 1985. He quickly adapted to his new role in a manufacturing environment, primarily undertaking equipment and product wiring. He later moved into the Airedale test centre, originally building prototypes and ultimately taking responsibility for product testing. He was sponsored by the Company to study for qualifications in refrigeration and electronics.

With the advent of the microprocessor, Harry saw a dramatic change as the product range moved towards more complex chiller and precision air conditioning control units, and has seen units significantly increase in power and performance to meet the temperature control demands of modern data centres, industrial and comfort environments. A further step change witnessed by Harry has been the introduction of Airedale’s TurboChill centrifugal, oil-free compressor range which he says involved a considerable learning process for everyone.

The test centre allows Airedale to test new products under controlled, stable conditions but also provides an environment in which clients can verify that products meet specifications before they leave Airedale’s site. Over the years, Harry has successfully overseen a large number of witness tests involving clients such as the National Gallery and Arsenal Football Club, as well as testing most of the company’s units before despatch to clients in the UK and around the world.

Harry hit the spotlight when he featured on the front cover of one of the air conditioning industry’s major titles, ACR Today, when the Company announced the opening of the £2m test centre in 1997. The opening was attended by a number of VIPs including former Leeds West MP, John Battle, then Minister of State at the Department for Trade & Industry and Dr Geoffrey Brundett, then incumbent President of the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE). Sixteen years on, the test facility is now at capacity, and Harry has been heavily involved in plans for the next phase of development which will allow Airedale to cope with increasing throughput based on its current and future expansion plans.

Chief Controls Engineer, Duncan Hitchcox, who has worked with Harry for many years and has become a close friend over that time, presented Harry with a gift to thank him for his service.

George Hannah, Product Development Director for Airedale said: “Harry has been at the heart of our development, and his vision and technical ability have been a key factor in our growth. We wish him a very enjoyable retirement.”

Originally from Otley, Harry lives in Yeadon with his wife Corinne who retires next year.