Innovating the Future: The Journey of Mike Belcher, Design Manager at Datalink Electronics Ltd.
Mike Belcher, the Design Manager at Datalink Electronics Ltd, epitomises the innovative spirit and technical expertise that the company is known for. His journey into the world of electronics is not just a professional chronicle but a personal passion that began in his childhood. From showing his primary school teacher how to operate a VCR at age 5 to tinkering with old computer equipment at home, Mike’s early fascination with technology laid the foundation for his future career.
His teenage years saw this interest evolve through electronics lab kits and Lego’s Mindstorms Robotics Invention System, leading him to study electronics and computer science at Aston University in Birmingham. His academic excellence, evidenced by numerous awards, transitioned into a flourishing career, starting as a Graduate Design Engineer at Datalink Electronics, and progressing through various roles before becoming the Design Manager in January 2022.
Mike’s day-to-day role at Datalink is as varied as it is challenging. Balancing contract design work with project management, business development, and IT management, he embodies the multitasking and versatile nature of leadership in a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME). His attention to detail and commitment to quality are evident in his approach to both design and management.
One of Mike’s significant achievements includes spearheading the implementation of the Cyber Essentials Plus certification at Datalink, a testament to his dedication to cybersecurity and IT excellence. This accomplishment is particularly notable given the changing requirements of the Cyber Essentials certification, demonstrating his ability to adapt and excel in a dynamic environment.
At heart, Mike remains an engineer, deriving immense satisfaction from the intricacies of design and problem-solving. His detail-oriented approach not only results in high-quality designs but also fosters a culture of excellence within his team. This commitment to detail and innovation is mirrored in the collaborative environment of Datalink, where the exchange of ideas and solutions is encouraged and valued.
Mike’s future goals include a focus on integrating elements of smart factory technologies into his role, ensuring that Datalink remains at the forefront of electronic innovation. His desire to remain hands-on with engineering projects reflects his dedication to staying abreast of the latest developments in the field.
Mike’s story at Datalink Electronics Ltd is one of passion, innovation, and leadership. His journey from a tech-enthusiast child to a pivotal managerial role in the company highlights the importance of nurturing talent and the value of lifelong learning in the ever-evolving world of electronics engineering.
