When Old Boy Dr Crispin Hales (1958-1963) donated a new engineering lathe to New Plymouth Boys' High School, he wasn't simply purchasing a piece of equipment - he was investing in the next generation of engineers.

Dr Hales has enjoyed an outstanding international career in mechanical engineering spanning more than five decades. After graduating with a Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Canterbury, he completed a Master of Technology in Engineering Design at Loughborough University in England before earning a PhD in Engineering Design from the University of Cambridge. As a Chartered Engineer and Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, his career has encompassed engineering design, research, university teaching, forensic engineering and consulting across New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States. 

Today, Dr Hales is President and Principal Engineer of Hales & Gooch Ltd., an engineering consultancy specialising in engineering design, forensic investigations and failure analysis. Throughout his distinguished career, he has investigated hundreds of major engineering failures, taught engineering design at internationally renowned universities, authored numerous technical publications and textbooks, and served in leadership roles within some of the world's leading engineering organisations.   

Despite his international achievements, Dr Hales has never forgotten where his engineering journey began. His generous contribution towards the purchase of a new engineering lathe reflects his commitment to supporting practical engineering education and providing today's students with the same opportunities to develop their skills and passion for engineering.

The new lathe is already making a significant impact in the Metal Technology workshop. Year 13 students are using the machine to manufacture a 4-litre portable air compressor as their major assessment project.

The project challenges students to produce a fully functioning engineering product while developing advanced machining, measurement and fabrication skills. Working from engineering drawings, students manufacture precision components before assembling and testing the finished compressor. Throughout the project, they gain valuable experience using industry-standard equipment and applying the same techniques expected in modern engineering workshops.

Technology Teacher Damian VanWyk says the new lathe has significantly enhanced students' learning by providing greater precision, reliability and capability, allowing them to complete projects to an even higher standard.

For students like Preston Mann, the opportunity to work on modern equipment provides invaluable preparation for further study, apprenticeships and careers in engineering and manufacturing.

Dr Hales' generosity will benefit countless students for many years to come, ensuring future generations of New Plymouth Boys' High School students continue to develop the practical skills, confidence and innovative thinking that engineering demands.