Education, Education, Education: Salford University Students Visit Crystal Doors
Crystal Doors was proud to welcome final-year Environmental Management students from the University of Salford for an immersive visit exploring sustainability in action.
The group of eighteen students arrived eager to learn from Richard Hagan, Managing Director of Crystal Doors, and to see first-hand how the company has become an international leader in sustainable manufacturing.
Richard opened the session by sharing his own story — from his days as a final-year Food Manufacturing student in 1993, to leading one of the UK’s most awarded sustainable manufacturers. He reflected on how education and access to information have transformed since his student years, when research meant library books and limited internet access, compared to today’s world of AI, ChatGPT, bots and intelligent agents.
During the interactive discussion, Richard described Crystal Doors’ journey to Net Zero and the innovations driving its success, including energy efficiency, waste reduction and the company’s pioneering use of automation and digital technologies. Students were captivated, asking questions about sustainability strategy, leadership and the future of environmental management in a rapidly changing global economy.
The 90-minute conversation flew by, followed by a guided factory tour. Students witnessed Industry 4.0 in action — from laser scanning and robotics to advanced sensor systems and Internet of Things (IoT) technology. These innovations demonstrate how data and automation are reshaping manufacturing and empowering the next generation of sustainability leaders.
Richard closed by emphasising that the future of industry depends on people — their skills, creativity, and ability to harness AI and data to drive progress towards a sustainable, circular economy.
Crystal Doors looks forward to continuing its partnership with Salford University, inspiring future professionals to lead with purpose and push the boundaries of sustainable manufacturing.