Never Stop Learning: John Sheppard Allen Shares Lessons from Five Decades in the Industry

John, congratulations on being recognised as an Honorary Member of the EASA Europe, Asia & Africa Chapter. This recognition reflects decades of dedication to the electromechanical service industry, your leadership as former President of the EASA Europe, Asia & Africa Chapter, your contribution to international standardization, and your long-standing commitment to EASA’s educational mission.

1. Looking back on more than five decades in the industry, from designing rotating machines to leading international technical committees, what moments or achievements stand out as the most defining in your career?

Looking back, there are several milestones that stand out. After work experience with CEGB NW Region HQ & GE power system protection, becoming a design engineer with H.J. Scott in 1970  gave me the opportunity to work on highly specialised DC & AC machines, which laid the foundation for my career, in 1982 appointed Chief Engineer at a relatively young age.

My time as Regional Director at British Electrical Repairs was another defining period. Responsible for five repair facilities across the north of England and Scotland, including managing the company’s largest repair shop in Newcastle upon Tyne, gave me invaluable operational experience in repair shop management and in large Ex & HV equipment.

Later, as Technical Director at Dowding & Mills, I was part of the development of a design programme for the redesign of large hydroelectric generators and led its implementation, supporting major international projects in Australia, the United States and the UK.

One of the most fascinating chapters of my career came as a consultant investigating failures on large synchronous generators and some of the world’s largest mining motors. Working on these extraordinary machines in countries such as the USA, Peru, Chile and Australia was both technically challenging and immensely rewarding. During this time, my work representing EASA at IECEx and IEC  TC31 was recognised by receiving IEC 1906 Awards from each organisation.

2. You have been deeply involved in the development of international standards through IEC and IECEx, helping shape the way electric machines used in hazardous areas are repaired and maintained around the world. Why are international standards so important, and what impact do they have on the everyday work of repair companies?

International standards are essential because they provide repair companies with a recognised framework for carrying out repairs safely, consistently and to a high level of quality. If a repair is not done correctly, the consequences go far beyond the failure of a machine – a company can lose the confidence of its customer. Standards help demonstrate that repairs are carried out procedures agreed by consensus rather than relying solely on questionable in-house experience or historical practice.

Following the introduction of the ATEX Directive, the UK  needed a repair standard for Ex equipment used in coal mines susceptible to firedamp I became involved in the development of standards. That work led to the development of the British Standard BS 7924, which later helped shape the international IEC60079-19  standards.

One of the major developments was expanding the standards to include non-electrical equipment as well as electrical equipment. Achieving this required collaboration between IEC and ISO, resulting in IEC TC31J working within IEC TC31 to develop internationally recognised requirements for the repair of Ex Equipment around the world.

3. EASA members know you as one of the Association’s longest-serving and most respected trainers. What has your involvement in the Association meant to you personally?

Being involved with EASA has been a tremendous privilege. It has given me the opportunity to meet and work with members from around the world, many of whom have become lifelong friends.

Although many members know me as a trainer, teaching has never been a one-way process. Every course has been an opportunity not only to share my own experience, but also to learn from the engineers in the room. That exchange of knowledge has always been one of the most rewarding aspects of being part of EASA.

The Association has also opened doors I never imagined, allowing me to travel internationally, collaborate with exceptional professionals and contribute to technical developments that have helped strengthen our industry. Looking back, I simply feel very fortunate to have been part of such a supportive and professional community.

4. The industry is facing significant challenges, from the shortage of skilled people to rapidly evolving technologies and increasing sustainability expectations. What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities for the next generation of engineers?

The greatest challenge is attracting the next generation into our industry. In many countries, apprenticeships and practical engineering education have declined, and too few young people see engineering as an exciting and rewarding career.

At the same time, our industry is evolving rapidly. Today’s engineers need to combine traditional electrical and mechanical engineering knowledge with an understanding of modern maintenance and repair practices. Continuous learning is more important than ever and must not be deferred or ignored.

I also see tremendous opportunities in the future for repair, in particular for larger machines. Extending the life of electrical equipment by repair is effective, sustainable action. As industries place greater emphasis on maintaining plant availability, reducing waste, conserving resources and lowering carbon emissions, I believe the repair sector will play an increasingly important role in supporting a more sustainable future.

5. Finally, after such a remarkable career, what message would you like to leave to today’s engineers and to those just beginning their journey in our industry?

My advice is simple: never stop learning. Engineering is constantly evolving, and every new challenge is an opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills.

Experience is invaluable, learn from those who are around you, but never be afraid to embrace new ideas. Every generation brings fresh perspectives and new technologies, and that is how our industry continues to progress.

Most importantly, enjoy what you do. Engineering has given me an incredibly rewarding career, taken me all over the world, introduced me to remarkable people and allowed me to work on fascinating projects. I sincerely hope the next generation finds the same enjoyment and fulfilment that I have been fortunate enough to experience.