As daughter of a carpenter who was suffering from arthritis, Product Design Engineering graduate Victoria Hamilton was inspired to develop a solution to aid her Dad at work and allow him to continue in the occupation he loves. Studying within the DMEM Department of Design, Manufacturing and Engineering Management at University of Strathclyde, what began as a final year Product Design Engineering project ended in the creation of her company and it's first product, Recoil Kneepads. Utilising a patented spring loaded mechanism, this innovative kneepad design now offers improved comfort and protection and has grown to become a premium brand, offering 1st class customer experience and service.
Since forming in September 2013, the company has received significant investment and entered into several distribution deals internationally. Personally, Victoria has also won a multitude of awards including Business Women in Scotland Entrepreneur of the Year, and has been featured on The Manufacturer's Maserati Top 100 List.
Throughout her experience as an entrepreneur, Victoria has always maintained that the key to any success is continued self reflection and ability to adapt.
Being your own boss isn't easy but I think it's so important for any up and coming entrepreneur to always reflect on what's been and learn from your mistakes and challenges. Embrace the opportunities available to you, surround yourself with good people and always go with your gut instinct. No one knows your business better than you – trust yourself and you can transform the way you do business
As she continues to grow the business, Victoria is also supporting the development and growth of the next generation of entrepreneurial people through her role as a Strathclyde Enterprise Fellow at the Hunter Centre for Entrepreneurship. Here, she is able to share her unique experiences as an entrepreneur and feed into the teaching and practical learning being delivered across the University.
