BINDT outreach encourages young minds to explore careers in NDT, CM and SHM

17/04/2025

Following the recruitment of an Outreach Coordinator in 2024, the British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (BINDT) is now increasing its efforts to promote careers in non-destructive testing (NDT), condition monitoring (CM) and structural health monitoring (SHM) to the next generation of professionals through attendance at a number of nationwide science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) events, supported by a team of enthusiastic STEM volunteers. 

Recently, BINDT attended a series of National Apprenticeship and Education Events being held across the UK, engaging with students, educators and industry representatives to showcase the exciting opportunities in the NDT, CM and SHM fields.

	In Newcastle, Peter Fairley from Gilligan Engineering Services explained how gamma ray technology is used in real-world applications

At the North East event at the Newcastle Civic Centre, BINDT Outreach Coordinator Rebecca Mulholland was joined by Peter Fairley from Gilligan Engineering Services, whose demonstration of dummy gamma ray equipment was both fun and engaging. 

The students were fascinated by the technology and asked insightful questions about how gamma ray technology is used in real-world applications. 

“Seeing their excitement as they made connections between the demonstration and the potential careers available to them was incredibly fulfilling. Moments like these remind us why STEM outreach is so important: by sparking curiosity, we can open doors to future careers in industries that many students may not have previously considered,” said Rebecca.

	Supported by Chris Minton of SWSNDT, students in Cardiff gained first-hand experience with conventional UT

The South West event was held at Cardiff City Stadium and provided another fantastic opportunity to engage with students. Chris Minton from the South West School of NDT supported the event, bringing along a conventional ultrasonic testing (UT) set with carbon fibre test-blocks, which allowed students to interact with testing technology first-hand. 

Rebecca continued: “Watching their faces light up as they handled equipment and saw real-world applications of concepts was inspiring. These hands-on experiences are crucial in making career pathways feel tangible and accessible, bridging the gap between education and industry.”

The North West event took place at Salford Community Stadium and was equally engaging, with strong participation thanks to BINDT member and STEM volunteer Roy Thiis. Roy introduced students to an ultrasonic flaw detector, allowing students to have a go at detecting flaws on steel blocks. Seeing students who might never have considered careers in NDT, CM or SHM suddenly intrigued and eager to learn more reinforced how valuable these outreach efforts are.

	Roy Thiis introduced students in Salford to ultrasonic phased array

In travelling to Newcastle, Cardiff and Salford, the enthusiasm and curiosity of students eager to learn about industries they may not have encountered before was evident. Meeting young people and helping them discover the vital role of NDT, CM and SHM in ensuring safety and efficiency across multiple sectors was immensely rewarding. These events reinforced the importance of hands-on exposure and direct industry engagement in career education.

None of this would be possible without the generous support of the dedicated industry professionals who take the time to share their knowledge and provide equipment for demonstrations. Their willingness to engage with students and highlight the real-world applications of their work is instrumental in attracting new talent to the industry. These events are not just about raising awareness; they provide meaningful, first-hand experiences that can inspire and shape future career paths.

“Through continued collaboration, engagement and education we can ensure that non-destructive testing, condition monitoring and structural health monitoring remain vibrant industries with a steady pipeline of skilled professionals. BINDT looks forward to attending more events, meeting more enthusiastic students and seeing the impact they will have on the future of the industry,” concluded Rebecca.

BINDT is always looking for industry members to join us in shaping the workforce of tomorrow. Whether by volunteering time, sharing expertise or providing demonstration equipment, every contribution makes a difference. If you would like to get involved, please get in touch with BINDT’s Outreach Coordinator at: rebecca.mulholland@bindt.org

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