Congratulations, Steve Turner
Steve Turner has been named the Expect More of Yourself Winner at the AVK 2026 Expect Awards 04-03-2026
Steve Turners's journey across his five years with AVK Hyde is a great lesson in what can be achieved through creativity, communication and dedication. However, Steve is also the first to say that he has achieved his success as part of a team effort.
Above image shows Steve with his award.
Steve originally served an engineering apprenticeship as a centre lathe operator, before spending 26 years as a skilled printer, a career that came to an end due, in part, to Covid. Whilst contemplating retirement, Steve worked as a cleaner and spent six months as a contract cleaner at AVK Hyde. Shortly after, he started work on the shop floor at AVK Hyde he quickly recognised opportunities to enhance the organisation and management of production, paving the way for improved delivery performance and greater customer satisfaction.
Left image: AVK Hyde, home of water and gas fittings. Right image: Automated robotic welding at AVK Hyde.
Steve put forward different ways of organising the work, with the operatives running the different manufacturing sections themselves:
‘After just three or four months we were achieving 97-98% delivery success rates. Our supportive manager empowered us to do our own thing and incentivised us with additional training and learning. I could consider retirement, but I feel I would miss the fresh challenges I face every day as well as the enjoyment I get from working with my colleagues. I am grateful for the support I receive and for the great team I have alongside me.’
Steve consistently credits the wider team and strong leadership support for the progress achieved. His approach reflects AVK’s commitment to collaboration, empowerment and delivering excellence for customers.
The AVK Expect Awards 2026, held at Ansty Hall, brought colleagues together from across the United Kingdom to celebrate those who turn AVK’s Expect Promises into action.
Reflecting on the occasion, Steve said:
‘It was a fantastic event. I was proud to receive my award, although I don’t mind saying that I was extremely nervous. Fortunately, my award was announced early on so I was able to just enjoy the rest of the day.’
