1938: David Evan Roberts

1938: David Evan Roberts

 

David Evan Roberts (1867-1950)

53rd President of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers

Roberts was born in 1867 in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales where his father was manager of the Plymouth Ironworks. He was educated at Christ’s College, Brecon, then apprentices to the engineering department of the Rhymney Iron Company. He soon became their chief draughtsman.

He returned to Merthyr Tydfil to become an assistant engineer of the steelworks section of the Dowlais Iron Company, and was soon promoted to engineer of the department. In 1902 he became chief engineer of the Dowlais Iron Company, but soon left. He went to Cardiff where he set up as a consultant on ironworks and steelworks practice.

This period was a time of great change and progress in the technology and practice of iron smelting and steel making. Roberts soon built up a world-wide clientele, working in many parts of the world and acquiring a reputation as an expert in his area.

During the First World War Roberts was attached to the iron and steel department of the Ministry of Munitions, particularly involved with the control of the Cardiff National Shell Factory.

Roberts was President of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers in 1938. He also served as President of the South Wales Institute of Engineers.

He died in 1950.

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