About Us

At StirLight, we bring together deep technical expertise, commercial focus, and a commitment to innovation. From advanced R&D to real-world manufacturing, we help partners unlock the full potential of Friction Stir Welding.

Meet Our Team

Our passionate and expert team brings together a diverse range of skills and expertise to deliver exceptional results.

Toby Savage-Yu

Commercial Director

Toby brings 15 years of broad commercial experience to StirLight, spanning sales, marketing, business development, and account management, from GSK to global commodities markets. He has led the development of profitable new markets and played a key role in the divestment of part of a family business. At StirLight, Toby ensures the company stays focused on commercial value and scalable growth. He thrives on building lasting partnerships and delivering solutions that work for customers.

Friction Stir Welding, FSW Expert Dr Jeroen De Backer

Dr Ing. Jeroen De Backer

Technical Director

Over 15 years of Friction Stir Welding (FSW) experience including research for an MSc and PhD. His passion for innovation and sustainability led him to focus on FSW. As a lead coordinator and principal investigator, he has contributed significantly to national and EU research projects. Jeroen’s commitment to advancing FSW techniques is evident through his 20+ scientific papers and active participation in international conferences

Dan Lord CEng

Operations Director

An IP professional with over 20 years of experience of technology development, intellectual property management, and driving commercialisation strategies particularly in the FSW domain. He excels in client relations, contract negotiation, as well as invention and patent management, ensuring the company’s legal and innovation success.

Our Client-Centric Approach

We employ a structured approach to ensure that our clients receive tailored solutions. Our methodology revolves around understanding and fulfilling unique project requirements.

Consultation

We begin by engaging closely with clients to understand their specific needs and project goals. Our team provides expert advice on design feasibility and welding techniques.

Prototype Development

Once project parameters are established, we create high-quality prototypes. This allows clients to evaluate design functionality and welding efficiency before full-scale production.

Production & Support

After prototype approval, we transition to seamless manufacturing processes. Continuous support is provided to ensure consistent quality and performance throughout production.

Our Values

Precision Matters

From weld quality to data logging, we take pride in doing things right. Precision builds trust and we don’t cut corners.

Clear, Kind and Collaborative

We speak plainly, listen actively, and treat people with respect. Whether with teammates or partners, we work openly and build trust through shared learning and collaboration.

Build with Curiosity

We test, tweak, and learn by doing. No ego, no over-engineering just thoughtful problem-solving driven by curiosity and care.

Design for Impact

We are committed to sustainable engineering that reduces emissions, supports long-term thinking, and helps our clients reach their net zero goals.

Own the Outcome

We are a hands-on team. Whether it’s prepping a weld or writing a grant, we take responsibility, follow through, and deliver results.