Karl obtained his BSc (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Manchester in 1987.  He later went on to obtain an MBA from Bradford University.  He is a Chartered Engineer and a member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.

Karl joined the IMI Graduate Training programme post ‘A’ levels and after graduating worked in a number of roles that lead him via project management into the design and project management of special purpose machinery for IMI Yorkshire Fittings.  Ultimately Karl was responsible for the running of the Machine Tool Business Unit.  In addition to mechanical design Karl was also actively involved in the electrical and control aspects of the equipment and personally programmed the PLC control systems for a number of machines.  He later joined a seals distributor, which offered a respected design and customisation service, as Engineering Manager.  During his time there, Karl designed and developed the core concept and prototype for the centreline multidimensional suspension system at the heart of the FTL Varipig®.  The system enabled a client’s subsea pipeline de-watering pig to travel an unprecedented 700km from the Norwegian coast to the Åsgard gas field during the commissioning of a new pipeline.  The design was subsequently patented.  Further roles with other special purpose automation and powder feeding and weighing machine producers eventually lead to Karl to return to Yorkshire Fittings as Technical Manager based in Leeds.  In this capacity he was responsible for a number of aspects within the business ranging from new product development, patent application and administration, complaints handling and the investigation of fitting failures as well as the development of European plumbing fitting standards.

Since joining Burgoynes in 2009, Karl has been continuously involved in the investigation of mechanical engineering failures and in particular incidents involving the escape of water from various taps and fittings.  As a former designer and builder of special purpose machines he is also interested in and has investigated machinery failures and personal injuries involving equipment and processes.  Karl continues to be involved in the standardisation process as a nominated UK expert.  He is actively involved in the BSI and CEN committees responsible for the development of the EN1254 series of copper and copper alloy plumbing fitting standards.