OUR PEOPLE | DAVE ORMAN

People really are at the heart of everything we do here at Ogle – and, most importantly, The Ogle Factor. If you’ve worked with us, there’s a strong chance you’ve come across our General Manager Dave Orman. He has worked here since 1984 and is part of the furniture at Ogle.

Having qualified as a patternmaker at Vauxhall Motors, Dave spent some time travelling and then dabbling in a couple of different jobs before joining Ogle two years later as a modelmaker.

Tell us more about your role at Ogle?

“I oversee the models and mock-ups that we make to ensure they’re finished to a high standard, delivered on time and that the customer is happy. My day-to-day role is different depending on which department I am in.

With the model shop, I’ll be quoting and planning the projects from start to finish with the team. I also speak to a lot of our customers to explain methods, processes, materials and finishing options.

My role within the RP department is different due to the nature of the turnaround time.  I have an RP supervisor, quoting and modelmaking team which I oversee to make sure everything is working okay.    

Ultimately, I am here to make sure the customer is happy, if not delighted, with our work.”

What made you choose Ogle?

I think we’ve always been a unique model making company and because of our 65-year history we’ve continued to grow – the projects we’re involved in are game changers. Starting at Ogle on the bench and then becoming General Manager is testament to how much staff are valued at Ogle and the hard work, long hours and passion I’ve always given the job.

Ogle have been trading for a quite a few years – have you noticed any changes in the industry?

“The biggest change to the business happened around 25 years ago with the introduction of CNC machines, 3D printers, CAD workstations and email – would you believe! Before then, we were working from 2D-printed drawings sent by post and then 3D images on a CAD workstation that was sent by email. The big changes are around speed and materials, the main material used to be wood and now it’s PU model board. The resin in the 3D printers are a lot stronger and more durable.”

What advice would you give to someone starting off in model making?

“You don’t need to have a degree in modelmaking to become a good modelmaker. Just find a good company that works in an industry you’re interested in and motivated by; aerospace, film, product design, displays and so on.”

Finally, tell us something we don’t know about you please?

“Every morning before I walk into the building, I’ve walked my dog and been for a swim – that’s why I’m like a Duracell battery that keeps on going.”

Have you also met our Managing Director, Len Martin?