In an age of decarbonisation and complex industrial projects, demand has never been greater for the services of mechanical and electrical engineering business Salko UK and its integrated, turnkey solutions that help customers navigate big hoops. A long period of growth looks assured for the 25-year-old family firm so long as it can source enough skilled workers - an issue of major concern for many businesses and one Salko has been actively tackling. Founded by chief executive and former contractor Dean Murphy, as the UK’s industrial base has evolved with resilience now to the fore so has the company’s site-based model, which spans a range of expertise in key sectors such as power generation, construction and engineering.
Most recently its wide experience in mining, welding, heating and cooling has extended to supplying specialists for the nuclear sector. Here a new approach is being taken to power stations that looks at what is achievable with a life-extending upgrade. Along with a core team of 20, plus more than 160 nationwide, internationally it works on projects in Europe, the Middle East and Chile. Job creation is at record levels which has led to a £15 million turnover forecast for 2026/27. “We combine technical capability, industry knowledge and a customer-first approach allowing us to operate flexibly,” says operations manager Simeon Sharphouse.
“In today’s landscape where modern electrical systems underpin essential infrastructure and energy security is a major concern, our commitment to advanced diagnostics and testing is vital. By incorporating precision testing equipment into both installation and ongoing maintenance the company ensures the integrity of systems from the outset and prevents costly failures down the line. We’re more than a contractor but a partner in projects that require not only technical innovation, but a reliable, expert workforce capable of delivering at scale.”
Well placed to support industrial transitions, Salko is based in Spaldington, East Yorkshire, where it also has its own fabrication workshop. The UK’s east coast is seeing a surge in infrastructure schemes and the company has high hopes for the Humber 2030 Vision plan, an emissions slashing blueprint incorporating carbon capture, storage and hydrogen production.
Salko’s under-the-surface ventilation and pipework also contributed to minimising visual impact at the Woodsmith Mine, Europe’s deepest mine shaft where reserves of the agricultural fertiliser polyhalite lie beneath the North York Moors national park.
In Immingham, it’s working on a new build open-cycle gas turbine designed to support grid stability and rapid power deployment.“This reinforces our energy credentials,” adds Sharphouse.
As the engineering workforce ages and shortages become more acute, the company is investing in a targeted upskilling strategy and promotion of rewarding technical careers for young people. “Demand is limitless for those who have the skills,” says Sharphouse. “We have to be future ready.” www.salko.co.uk
