From Small Beginnings to Big Ambitions: CEO Simon Brooks Reflects on 25 Years of Rotamec
What does reaching 25 years in business mean to you personally?
“It’s humbling, honestly. When we started Rotamec, it was just a handful of us, a few tools, and a big dream. Seeing it grow into a national name in engineering solutions — that’s deeply fulfilling. It’s a real testament to the brilliant people we’ve had on the journey.”
What do you believe is the biggest reason for Rotamec’s success?
“Our customers trust us — and that trust has been earned. It’s the combination of expertise, a relentless commitment to service, and the agility to respond quickly. We treat every customer as a partner, not just a customer.”
What were some of the biggest challenges Rotamec faced over the years?
“We’ve faced our share of tough times — recessions, supply chain disruptions, rapid technology changes. The pandemic was a real test too. But every challenge pushed us to adapt, to innovate, and to strengthen our relationships internally and externally.”
How has Rotamec evolved since its founding?
“When we started, we were very focused on mechanical repairs and maintenance. Over time, we’ve expanded into multi-disciplinary engineering — electrical, mechanical, and even turnkey solutions. The biggest change is our shift towards preventative maintenance and engineering partnerships rather than just ‘fix it when it breaks’ models.”
What are you most proud of?
“The team. Without hesitation. Watching apprentices grow into senior engineers, seeing people stay with us for 10, 15, even 20 years — that’s what makes me proud. We’ve built something that matters to people’s lives, not just to the bottom line.”
What has been the most memorable moment for you at Rotamec?
“There have been so many memorable moments, but one that really stands out was when we moved to Cheddar. We went from a 1,500 square foot unit to a 4,500 square foot workshop, complete with an overhead crane and brand-new kit. It was a real game-changer for us. That first big move wasn’t just about more space — it marked the start of a bigger vision for Rotamec, for our customers, and for our team. It put us on the map, and it gave everyone a real sense that we were building something special.”
How would you describe Rotamec’s company culture?
“Hardworking but supportive. We’re all about solving problems, getting the job done right, and helping each other out along the way. It’s a culture built on respect, learning, and a little bit of good-natured humour too.”
Where do you see Rotamec heading in the next 5-10 years?
“We’re investing heavily in innovation — automation, smarter diagnostics, predictive maintenance technologies. Our aim is to be a leader not just in reactive support, but in helping customers run more efficiently and sustainably. And we want to continue growing nationally without losing that personal touch.”
What advice would you give to young engineers starting out today?
“Stay curious and never stop learning. Engineering is changing fast — so the willingness to adapt, to ask questions, and to try new ideas will take you a long way. And remember, it’s not just about the technical skills — communication and teamwork are just as critical.”
Any final words for customers, partners, and the Rotamec team as we celebrate 25 years?
“Thank you — sincerely. To our customers: thank you for your trust and partnership. To our partners: thank you for standing with us. And to the Rotamec family: thank you for every late night, early morning, and tough challenge you tackled. Here’s to the next 25 years!”
