Chant Engineering is looking back on its family legacy as it celebrates its 55th anniversary this year.
What began in 1959 as a small operation led by Leonard James “Jim” Chant, a British engineer with a vision for better machinery, has since grown into a global leader in the lifting, rigging, military, aerospace, and subsea industries.
From the very beginning, Jim Chant’s early designs included some of the first Chant test beds with touch-screen controls—a technology that was years ahead of its time. Despite initial skepticism, these touch screens became standard on all Chant machinery, solidifying the company’s reputation for innovation.
Today, Chant Engineering has expanded far beyond its original niche in the lifting and rigging industry. The company manufactures a wide range of testing machinery, including hydraulic testing equipment, proof and break test systems, swaging machines, load cells, and more. These products are crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of equipment in industries like aerospace, military, and subsea operations. Chant’s machinery is renowned for its durability and precision, and its testing systems are considered among the best in the market.
Chant’s reach also extends through strategic partnerships with companies like DLM and Friedrich Hoppe, allowing it to distribute specialized equipment for industrial, military, and aerospace applications worldwide. Their services don’t stop at manufacturing, though; Chant also offers engineering design, calibration, maintenance, and comprehensive operator training programs that keep their customers’ equipment running smoothly and efficiently.
With a presence in over 40 countries, Chant’s global footprint continues to grow. The company has seen a record year for exports, with markets in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East driving much of the growth. Despite its size, Chant remains a family-run business. Jim’s son, Philip Chant, has served as president since 2012, ensuring that the company stays true to its roots while embracing new opportunities. Under Philip’s leadership, Chant has expanded to employ more than 60 people and solidified its reputation as a global leader in its sector.
The next generation of the Chant family, led by Mason Chant, continues to bring fresh ideas and engineering innovation to the table. As director of Special Projects, Mason is ensuring Chant stays ahead of the curve, developing new products and solutions that will shape the future of the lifting, rigging, military, and aerospace industries.
Looking ahead, Chant Engineering is committed to further growth and innovation. The company is already working on new products set to launch in 2025, promising to raise the bar in terms of quality and performance.
