Andy Simpson is managing director of Angus 3D Solutions
What does your business do?
I was working in the oil and gas industry and looking after several manufacturing facilities in Scotland and overseas.
As the oil price dropped, my role changed and I spent a significant amount of time closing facilities, moving work overseas and making people redundant, which was far from enjoyable.
So, to take control of my work-life balance and career destiny, I set up Angus 3D Solutions.
I saw an opportunity to develop additive manufacturing and bring a new service to Scottish manufacturing industry.
Who has helped you along the way?
This is an easy question to answer – my wife Jacqueline has given me the most help and has been my biggest supporter throughout my career. If it wasn’t for her support and encouragement, I wouldn’t be doing what I love today.
Your biggest mistake?
Not taking the plunge to set up my own business earlier.
I wanting to do this for years, but it never felt the right time.
I’ve learned that if you wait for the right time, it’ll never happen.
Your greatest achievement?
Bringing the very first Atomic Diffusion Additive Manufacturing (ADAM) metal 3D printer – the Markforged Metal-X – to Scotland and the first to be commercially available in the UK.
This is a great achievement as previously this technology was only available in a few universities and a couple of Formula 1 Teams.
Hopes for the future?
Solidify our company as a major influencer in the additive manufacturing industry in Scotland and help develop a circular economy by encouraging companies to use additive manufacturing in producing their product.
Do you want to recruit in the future?
Absolutely – we want to recruit people who are as passionate about manufacturing as we are.
Advice to wannabe entrepreneurs?
It’s ok not to have the all the answers, just ask. Speak to organisations like your local Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses, Business Gateway etc, as they are keen to help.
If they can’t answer your questions, they’ll know someone who can.