History of our CNC

Machine Shop

HR Engineering Suffolk Ltd was established in 1997 by Hans Rutherford. Hans was at the time already an experienced engineer who studied as an apprentice at Ransom & Rapier in Ipswich. It is was here that Hans was awarded the 'Waterside Cup' for Apprentice of the Year, for demonstrating his adeptness in engineering applications. Shortly after he gained his HNC in mechanical engineering and moved onto work at several local engineering businesses including BT Workshops on Adastral Park (Martlesham) and Engineering Designs Ipswich (EDI). After which he decided to take the plunge and started his own business in reaction to the rapid technological advances in Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) machining. 

The next 17 years were spent mostly in prototype manufacturing and expanding the range of CNC machinery to cater for the movement of the company towards mass-produced precision componentry. 

By 2015 the company had begun to outgrow its initial premises in Ufford. And in Winter 2017 Hans began the process of moving to a new workshop on Charnwood Industrial Estate in Framlingham, where the business continues to operate and promote further expansion. 

Having worked largely by himself for the majority of his first 20 years in business; Hans decided that it was the right time to bring an apprentice onboard, inviting his son Charlie to join in May 2018. Hans spends his time mentoring Charlie and aiding his progression in his engineering studies so that HR Engineering may continue to operate long into the future as a successful family business. The things we value as a family: 'communication, trust and support' underpin the way in which our business is run.