TAS Engineering Consultants, a Stockton-on-Tees headquartered electrical, instrumentation, automation and control engineering specialist, has been acquired by GSE Systems. GSE Systems, based in Baltimore, Maryland, USA and Glasgow, UK, is a global provider of real-time simulation and training solutions to the power, process, manufacturing and Government sectors.
The acquisition will provide GSE Systems with a stronger UK and European presence by enabling TAS to deliver simulator-based training and engineering solutions.
The deal has the potential to enable TAS to double the size of its workforce over the next three-to five years.
Central to the growth will be TAS's ability to design and construct control room simulators for the energy industry, which allow power plant operators to simulate the exact operations of a plant in a training scenario. The company will also provide training services for the simulators.
On the back of this growth, TAS has almost doubled its turnover to £2.4 million in the last two years and anticipates continued growth following the acquisition.
John Maplesden, managing director of TAS, said: "As part of GSE Systems we will be able to build upon the growth we have already achieved. We have enjoyed excellent progression in the past few years and, with the security and resources associated with a major international company, we can implement a programme of investment and recruitment that will take the business forward.
"Entering the simulation facilities and training sector is a natural progression for TAS and enables the company to establish an increased presence in rapidly expanding power generation sector."
He added: "This acquisition also proves the depth and breadth of engineering expertise, which exists on Teesside. GSE Systems have recognised the high standard of the industry in the area and the quality of the workforce, particularly those who have helped to build TAS."
Graham Wren, GSE Systems managing director in the UK, said: "The acquisition of TAS brings strong and complementary skills and experience into the GSE family of companies. The combination of world class simulation technology from GSE and strong project management, electrical and control engineering will allow us to provide our customers with an enhanced service from design concept through plant commissioning to operational support and training."
Pictured: John Maplesden (left) and Graham Wren (right) inside a control room simulator