Meet the team: Alisha Patel

We had the opportunity to chat with Alisha Patel, our Chemical Engineer at Joseph Ash Galvanizing, to find out about her and her role within the company.

Meet Alisha Patel

Role: Chemical Engineer

Site: Head Office

Started: April 2025

Favourites…

Food: Chinese takeaway

Pastime: I love to swim and do anything crafty.

Can you give an overview of your role at Joseph Ash?

Since I joined the company, I have developed my understanding and knowledge of the hot dip galvanizing process. As Chemical Engineer for the Group, I take responsibility for managing process control at all nine of our sites. I routinely analyse data to ensure the chemistry is well controlled to specified limits throughout the process to maintain consistency and high-quality galvanised products. I also provide technical support to divisions and customers when necessary.

A significant part of my role is maintaining and improving process stability, so I troubleshoot issues, designing and executing small-scale lab experiments to identify the root cause. Additionally, from a quality perspective, I ensure compliance with ISO 9001 requirements, maintaining our quality management system through conducting internal audits and supporting external audits.

What was your experience before Joseph Ash?

Before joining I completed my Integrated Master’s in Chemistry course at Keele University. I then went on to work as a Scientist in the Gas Industry where I conducted routine analysis using specialised equipment. This gave me analytical experience and strengthened my ability to interpret data, ensure accuracy, and work within strict quality and safety standards.

Why did you want to join Joseph Ash?

I wanted to join as it was a change in career where I can grow and develop professionally. My role at Joseph Ash provides me with opportunities to learn, contribute and make a meaningful impact to the business. I enjoy problem-solving and working through technical issues, and my role allows me to do exactly that. I was keen to meet new people and travelling to all our different sites has allowed me to get to know so many people I would never have met otherwise.

What are you looking forward to in the coming year?

I’m currently working on a lab-scale project involving the post-treatment of galvanised steelwork to help optimise passivation. We’re improving our knowledge of chrome-free passivation materials as well as aid the performance and optimisation of steel treatment. After some time the project will be upscaled to plant trials with hope of positive changes to improve the appearance of galvanised steel.

Tell us something people might find surprising about you.

I have a part-time job as a Lifesaving Instructor where I teach lifesaving skills and first aid both in and around aquatic environments to young people. I’ve also volunteered for West Midlands Ambulance where I responded to critical 999 calls to aid paramedics.