14
Oct 2026
13th Oct 2026
As manufacturers around the world mark World Standards Day, Birmingham-based precision engineering specialist Rowan Precision is highlighting the importance of internationally recognised quality standards in supporting its work across the aerospace, medical and advanced engineering sectors.
For Rowan Precision, certification to AS9100 and ISO 13485 represents a significant investment in manufacturing quality, process control and the confidence of customers operating in highly regulated industries. The company has developed its reputation through specialist CNC machining capabilities, including sliding head CNC machining, fixed head turning and complex multi-axis machining, supported by quality management systems designed to meet the demanding requirements of its customers.
World Standards Day, celebrated annually on 14 October, recognises the contribution of international standards to industry, technology and global trade. For Rowan Precision Chief Financial Officer Glenn Aston, the occasion provides an opportunity to recognise the role that quality management plays in the company’s manufacturing operations and long-term development.
“Quality standards are fundamental to the way we operate at Rowan Precision,” said Aston. “Our investment in AS9100 and ISO 13485 reflects the expectations of the industries we serve and the importance we place on delivering precision-engineered components with consistency, reliability and full accountability.
“These accreditations carry considerable value for our customers. They demonstrate the systems, disciplines and oversight that underpin our manufacturing processes, from the initial enquiry through to inspection and delivery.”
AS9100 is an internationally recognised quality management standard developed specifically for the aviation, space and defence industries. Building upon the requirements of ISO 9001, the standard introduces additional controls covering areas such as risk management, product safety, configuration management, traceability and the prevention of counterfeit parts.
For precision engineering businesses operating within aerospace supply chains, these requirements influence how components are manufactured, inspected, documented and released to customers. At Rowan Precision, AS9100 provides a framework supporting the production of complex machined components where dimensional accuracy, repeatability and manufacturing records are essential.
“Aerospace customers place enormous importance on the ability of their suppliers to demonstrate control over every stage of production,” Aston explained.
“AS9100 provides a recognised framework for that assurance. It also encourages continuous improvement throughout the business, which is particularly valuable as we invest in our machining capabilities, develop our workforce and strengthen our position within demanding manufacturing markets.”
Alongside its aerospace quality management credentials, Rowan Precision places particular value on ISO 13485, the internationally recognised quality management standard for medical devices and associated manufacturing activities. The standard addresses the specific requirements of the medical device sector, including risk-based process controls, documented procedures, traceability and the management of manufacturing activities throughout the product lifecycle.
For a precision machining specialist, these disciplines are especially relevant when producing components for medical equipment and devices where consistent manufacturing performance is essential.
Rowan Precision’s investment in ISO 13485 supports its ability to work with medical technology businesses seeking suppliers with established quality management systems and experience in precision CNC machining.
“Medical manufacturing is an important market for precision engineering, and ISO 13485 demonstrates our commitment to meeting the expectations of customers in this sector,” Aston continued. “Manufacturers developing medical devices need confidence in the quality systems operating throughout their supply chains. Our certification provides that recognised foundation and supports the relationships we are building with businesses working in medical technology.”
Rowan Precision’s commitment to internationally recognised standards forms part of a broader programme of investment in manufacturing technology, workforce development and operational improvement. The company continues to develop its capabilities in sliding head CNC machining and complex multi-axis production, with a focus on precision components for customers requiring high levels of accuracy and repeatability.
Its quality management systems also support the training and development of employees, helping engineers, apprentices and production teams understand the importance of process discipline, inspection and continuous improvement.
For Aston, the value of certification extends throughout the organisation.
“Maintaining these standards requires commitment from everyone in the business,” he said. “Our engineers, machinists, inspection teams and management all contribute to the quality of the finished product. “World Standards Day is an opportunity to recognise that collective effort. AS9100 and ISO 13485 are important credentials for Rowan Precision, and the real value comes from applying those principles consistently across our operations.
“As we look towards future opportunities in aerospace, medical technology and advanced manufacturing, our commitment to quality will remain central to the way we invest and grow.”