At Kytun, our team is the driving force behind our innovation and success. This month, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on Mark O’Daly, a talented Design Engineer who plays a key role in bringing our bespoke aluminium roofing products to life. Read on to learn more about Mark’s journey and contributions at Kytun!

Could you introduce yourself and tell us about your role within Kytun?

My name is Mark O’Daly, I work as a Design Engineer. My job involves using 3D design software to design bespoke aluminium roofing products for our customers.

What inspired you to pursue a career within the construction industry?

I have worked in Mechanical Engineering roles since leaving college, one area I never really explored was the construction industry, I felt that it would pose new challenges and I would learn a lot in a new industry while still working as an engineer.

Could you share some of the key responsibilities or tasks that you manage in your current position?

I use Solidworks, a 3D design software, to take bespoke projects from a customer’s idea to a set of approved manufacturing drawings for our fabrication staff. I also programme our CNC Punch machine which is used to manufacture bespoke parts.

What aspect of your work do you find most fulfilling or rewarding?

I love to see parts and products that I have modelled up on Solidworks being made on our factory floor, sort of brings them to life. Getting good feedback from a customer who is happy with products we designed and manufactured is a great feeling.

From your perspective, what skills or qualities are crucial for success in your position?

Attention to detail is very important in my job. Drawings for both customer approval and our fabrication staff must be very clear and contain all necessary views and dimensions. I must be organised to progress numerous projects simultaneously and as an engineer I need to be able to solve problems and come up with ideas to overcome any obstacles that may arise to ensure our customers get a high-quality finished product.

Can you highlight any notable achievements or milestones from your career that you’re particularly proud of?

I am particularly proud of my design work in one of our bigger projects that involved bespoke fascia cladding and parapet capping. It was great to see the finished result. I am also proud with the progress I have made and the knowledge I have gained since joining Kytun in 2021. I feel like I have made the job my own and have a good system in place in the Technical Department.

If someone were interested in pursuing a career similar to yours, what advice would you offer them?

My advice would be to just go for it, if you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment where no two projects are the same then this is the job for you. A Design Engineering job is a rewarding one where you see something that you model up on a computer screen become reality.

Outside of work, what interests or hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?

Cars are a big part of my life. My wife and I have a 1982 Ford Capri that we bring to as many car shows as we can. I am involved in a couple of car clubs and go to shows and trips with them. I am also a big rally fan and try to get to as many rallies as I can throughout the year.

Looking ahead, how do you see your role evolving, and what are your long-term goals?

I would like to continue growing my knowledge of the construction/roofing industry while trying to streamline and improve the design process here. 

We’re proud to have Mark on board and look forward to seeing his continued impact at Kytun. Check out our blog for more employee spotlights, as we celebrate the incredible talent behind Kytun!