Swindon engineers making Formula 1 parts eye apprenticeship growth
Billet Precision's three founders started as apprentices and now want to offer the same route to others
Last updated 25th Sep 2026
Three engineers who launched their own precision engineering company just over two years ago are now producing specialist components for customers across some of the UK's most advanced industries.
Billet Precision, based on the South Marston Industrial Estate in Swindon, was set up by directors Will Casey, Ryan King and James Lewington.
The company works across sectors ranging from motorsport and automotive engineering to nuclear energy, medical technology and scientific research.
All three founders began their careers as apprentices and have plans to create more apprenticeship opportunities as the business grows.
The three friends met through a shared interest in cars a decade ago and later realised they shared the ambition of running their own engineering business.
Billet Precision now provides high-precision machining services for customers across a range of industries.
The company works with local colleges to offer work experience and plans to invest in additional machinery as it continues to grow.
The founders recently welcomed the Leader of Swindon Borough Council, Councillor Gary Sumner, and the council's Head of Inward Investment, Andrew Wells, for a tour of the business.
Will Casey, director of Billet Precision, said:
"Starting our own business was something we'd talked about for years. We all reached a similar point in our careers at the same time and decided to make it a reality.
"The first year was always going to be challenging, but we've gone from strength to strength. We love what we do, and we're prepared to put in the hard work needed to keep growing and delivering for our customers.
"Being based in Swindon has been a huge advantage. We originally thought we'd need to look much further afield for customers, but the majority of the businesses we work with are within an hour's drive. It's a great location and there are far more opportunities here than we first realised.
"As the business continues to grow, we'd love to take on apprentices. All three of us came through that route ourselves and we know how effective it can be. Apprenticeships help create some of the best engineers in the industry and we want to play our part in developing the next generation."
Councillor Gary Sumner, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said:
"It was a pleasure to visit Billet Precision and hear first-hand how three talented young engineers have turned their skills, determination and entrepreneurial spirit into a successful business.
"Companies like Billet Precision demonstrate the strength of Swindon's manufacturing and engineering sector. It is impressive to see a young business producing specialist components for Formula 1 teams and other highly-skilled industries while creating opportunities for local people.
"Their commitment to innovation, skills development and apprenticeships is exactly the kind of ambition we want to encourage as we continue to grow Swindon's economy. It is particularly encouraging to see successful businesses being created by people who began their careers as apprentices and are now looking to offer those same opportunities to others."
Billet Precision's directors are now investing in additional machinery and expanding their operations as demand for their services continues to grow.