Lee Goody

Tell us about your role at EMP Designs.

I’m responsible for running and programming our surface mount and selective soldering equipment. That includes setting up and programming the various machines used throughout the PCB assembly process, from solder paste printing through to component placement and soldering.

 

How long have you been with EMP Designs?

Just over a year now.

 

What does a typical day look like for you?

A typical day can involve programming and setting up equipment, running production jobs, and making sure everything is operating correctly. Depending on whether a product is a new build or an existing one, I may need to create a completely new programme or simply load and optimise an existing setup. I’m involved in the whole process, from preparing the PCB right through to the finished assembly.

 

Can you talk us through some of the equipment you use?

One of the key machines I use is the MY700. This applies solder paste directly onto the pads of the PCB before components are placed. From there, boards move to the MY300 pick-and-place machine, which automatically picks components from reels and places them onto the board in their correct positions. Once assembled, the boards go through our vapour phase oven, which melts the solder and creates the electrical and mechanical connections between the components and the PCB. After reflow, the boards are inspected using AOI (Automated Optical Inspection) equipment to check for any defects. I’m also responsible for programming and operating our selective soldering machine, which is used for through-hole components. The machine applies flux, pre-heats the board, and then uses a precision solder nozzle to create consistent solder joints automatically.

 

What do you enjoy most about the role?

I enjoy the role as a whole. I like things to be done properly and accurately, and there’s a lot of satisfaction in producing high-quality assemblies. What I particularly enjoy is being involved in the entire manufacturing process rather than just one small part of it.

 

How does this compare to previous roles?

In previous companies, I was usually responsible for just one area of the production line. At EMP Designs, I’m involved from the initial programming stages all the way through to the finished board. That adds a lot more variety and keeps the role interesting. You’re not simply running the same machine all day; you’re involved in every stage of the process.

 

What has surprised you most about working at EMP Designs?

The biggest surprise has been the lack of micromanagement—in a good way. People are trusted to manage their own responsibilities and organise their work in the way that works best for them. In some previous roles there was much more supervision and oversight, whereas here there’s a lot of trust placed in individuals. I think that creates a much better working environment.

 

What has been the most interesting project you've worked on?

There isn’t necessarily one specific project that stands out, but it’s always exciting working on projects that eventually appear in major productions. One example is a project for Narnia, where I worked on boards used for lighting effects within the set. Projects like that can take years before they eventually appear on screen, so it’s always interesting knowing that something you’ve built will eventually become part of a much larger production.

 

Have there been any particularly challenging builds?

The S6 project was particularly challenging. We experienced several challenges during the selective soldering process. Certain design elements made the process more difficult, requiring a lot of adjustment and problem-solving to achieve reliable results. Those kinds of projects can be frustrating at times, but they’re also some of the most rewarding when you finally get everything working correctly.

 

Have you learned any new skills since joining EMP Designs?

Yes. Since joining I’ve learned hand soldering as well as selective solder programming and operation. I’ve really enjoyed developing those skills. Like anything technical, there can be frustrating moments when you’re trying to perfect a process, but overall it’s been very rewarding.

 

What would people be surprised to learn about EMP Designs?

One thing that impressed me when I joined was the level of investment in equipment and continuous improvement. For a relatively small company, we have access to some very impressive manufacturing equipment. There’s a genuine drive to keep improving processes and investing in better technology where it makes sense. That’s not something you always see elsewhere.

 

How would you describe the culture at EMP Designs?

Very friendly. Everyone is approachable and willing to help. It feels like everyone is equally valued regardless of their role. There’s no sense that certain jobs are beneath particular people. If something needs doing, people are happy to get involved and help out. That creates a really positive atmosphere.

 

What kind of people succeed at EMP Designs?

I’d say people who are: Hard-working Self-driven Caring Friendly Reliable Because there’s a lot of trust and responsibility, people need to be motivated and willing to take ownership of their work.

 

How would you describe EMP Designs in three words?

Kindness. Respect. Equality.

 

Finally, what keeps the job interesting?

Although the core principles of PCB assembly remain the same, every project presents different challenges. One day I might be programming a completely new build, while the next I’m optimising an existing process or troubleshooting a manufacturing issue. Being involved in every stage of production means there’s always something different happening, which keeps the role engaging and enjoyable.