Allan Anderson has been confirmed as the new chairman of UKIVA (UK Industrial Vision Association) at the recent Annual Members’ Meeting.
Anderson, managing director of ClearView Imaging, previously held the position of vice-chairman of UKIVA and now takes the chair for the next two years. At the same meeting, Neil Sandhu from Sick (UK) was elected to the position of vice-chairman.
During his time as vice-chairman, Anderson has been extremely pro-active in the creation of the UKIVA Machine Vision Conference and Exhibition (MVC).
“UKIVA recognised the need for an independent machine vision event in the UK, and with the hard work of many people, we have made it a reality”, he said.
“We were able to call on the resource and experience of the show team at the PPMA (Processing & Packaging Machinery Association) to create a truly educational event. It features a comprehensive technical seminar program that offers content for everyone, from newcomers to experienced vision practitioners, alongside an exhibition that allows delegates to see some of the latest vision technology in action.”
Anderson also paid tribute to outgoing chair, Paul Wilson, who has just completed his four-year cycle as vice-chair and chair. “Paul has overseen a significant period of growth for the Association”, he said. “Member numbers have gone up during his tenure and MVC has become established in the vision industry calendar, with the 2019 event promising to be the biggest ever.
In addition, Paul has taken a keen interest in instituting an accredited pathway for young people wanting to enter the vision industry. He has investigated the framework needed to establish an apprenticeship standard for the industry, which will be considered for further action by the Association.
New UKIVA vice-chair, Neil Sandhu, is national product manager – imaging, measurement, ranging & Systems at Sick (UK). Sandhu is a well-established member of the UKIVA committee and brings a wealth of experience to his new role.
He is keen to continue UKIVA’s efforts to bring vision to even more users. He commented: “Even though the vision industry continues to grow both in the UK and globally, there are still significant opportunities for further growth by engaging with all sectors about the benefits that vision can bring them.
We have already seen from the attendances at our Conference that there is still a huge appetite for knowledge and in recent years we have seen a number of new market opportunities emerge.”
