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Iain Cowley: A Journey of Career, Community, and Family

Iain Cowley, the Engineering Manager for RLC Ronaldsway Aircraft Company, shares his relocation journey.

Embracing the Isle of Man:

Originating from Cheshire, Iain’s venture to the Isle of Man started in February 2018, attracted by a great job offer in his field of expertise and an appealing relocation package.

While initially considering Canada, a sudden change in a job offer prompted a reconsideration. "I was heading for Canada, I had a job offer, had sold our house, and we had moved in with my parents in preparation for moving. However, the job offer situation changed at the last minute, and I wasn’t prepared to take my family halfway around the world with the job security in question. We were evaluating our options and I came across an advertisement for a Manufacturing Engineer required at Ronaldsway Aircraft Company.”

“I'd always liked the Isle of Man and had fond memories of coming over as a youngster and my surname is of Manx origin, so it felt like a great opportunity that was worth following up. The island's charm, coupled with fond childhood memories and a touch of Manx heritage, made the relocation an opportunity too good to resist.”

Settling into the Isle of Man:

Iain's settling-in process wasn't without its challenges. Arriving in the midst of winter posed some integration difficulties however, the close-knit community of the Island quickly embraced the Cowley family. “We were fortunate that we had a four year old son who was about to start nursery and then school, so we made friends with other parents of similar age. We fell pretty lucky there to be honest and have some truly wonderful close friends.”

Today, Iain considers the Isle of Man not just a workplace but as a home where his family can flourish in a secure and welcoming environment. “I certainly consider the Isle of man home, it’s my place of work, it`s where my daughter was born which makes her Manx, and its where our two children can grow up safe and happy.”

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Embracing the Community:

Iain thanks his smooth transition to the Isle of Man to the renowned community spirit prevalent in the Island. “Everyone is very friendly and welcoming, It’s good to feel part of the community and get involved in local events. It’s also a safe place for children to grow up”.

   

Life beyond Work:

Outside the aerospace and defence realm of Ronaldsway Aircraft Company, Iain is a family man who enjoys mountain biking in his spare time. However, his primary focus revolves around his role as a coach for the local under-10s football team, Castletown MFC. This involvement not only provides a break from the day-to-day but contributes to the vibrant community life.

Ronaldsway: A Hub of Growth and Innovation:

Iain applauds the career opportunities provided by the Isle of Man. At Ronaldsway Aircraft Company, Iain experiences the dynamic world of aerospace and defence manufacturing. Over the last five years, he has navigated challenging engineering projects, completed a masters degree in Engineering and took on a leadership role leading a team of 11 engineers and also a member of the senior management team. “I enjoy the challenge of engineering problems, critical thinking and problem solving. Working with people and developing young engineers. I like the collaborative nature of the role, it’s very rewarding seeing people succeed.”

Why choose Ronaldsway Aircraft Company?

When asked why choose Ronaldsway Aircraft Company Iain explains that “As a privately owned company it is very secure, being a major supplier into the defence industry, our main products are ejector seats and assemblies. It’s good to know that your work is helping to save lives.

For an engineer, it’s a brilliant place to work as every day brings new problems to solve, even the most senior of engineers will be kept busy and challenged on a regular basis.

For younger people, the chance of developing your career and moving into more senior roles can be easily achievable if you have the right mindset and attributes, as all jobs are always advertised internally first. The company has supported many apprentices, degree students, and postgraduates through their development and supports you every step of the way. A lot of people have worked here since they were young, some nearly fifty years! We also offer great employee benefits and a very good pension scheme“

Iain Cowley's journey from Cheshire to the Isle of Man beautifully captures the island's magic — a blend of career opportunities, community warmth, and a family-centred lifestyle. Ronaldsway Aircraft Company isn't just a workplace; it's a hub for fostering professional growth, sparking innovation, and embracing a genuine sense of purpose.

  

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