Conor Douglas donates UT set to boost BINDT's STEM Outreach

At Lavender International’s recent Apprenticeship Awards, held at the National Composites Centre (NCC) in Bristol, Conor Douglas, Inspection Engineer at BP Solutions, delivered an inspiring presentation to apprentices and employers on his journey through non-destructive testing (NDT), from trainee technician to Level 3 specialist and industry leader.

Conor spoke candidly about his career path, the lessons learned through onshore and offshore inspection work and the value of mentoring, continuous learning and stepping out of one’s comfort zone. His story highlighted the diversity of opportunity that exists within NDT, from early hands-on technical roles through to strategic and leadership positions in global companies such as BP.

As part of the event, Conor also made a significant contribution to BINDT’s ongoing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and outreach engagement strategy by donating a fully equipped ultrasonic testing (UT) set. This equipment will directly support BINDT’s national efforts to promote NDT in schools, colleges and community events, helping volunteers demonstrate real inspection techniques and spark curiosity about engineering careers.

The UT set was formally handed over to Rebecca Mulholland (BINDT Outreach Coordinator) and Sam Cunningham (BINDT Vice President and STEM Ambassador), who both thanked Conor for his generosity and for championing the next generation of NDT professionals.

Rebecca commented: “This donation will make a real difference to our outreach work. Having live NDT equipment available means students can see, hear and experience testing in action.”

BINDT’s STEM and outreach strategy has continued to grow over the past year, with initiatives reaching thousands of students through school visits, national exhibitions and hands-on projects. Highlights have included engagement with over 22,000 students through the National School & College Leaver Festival at the NEC in Birmingham, dedicated STEM volunteer groups meeting regularly to coordinate activities across the UK and collaborative outreach projects such as the Lavender/JCB Academy/BINDT NDT Challenge, which introduced young learners to quality assurance and inspection.

This donation further strengthens BINDT’s mission to inspire a diverse, inclusive and skilled future workforce, ensuring young people understand the importance of NDT in keeping the world’s infrastructure safe and sustainable.

Gestures such as this show the best of our community. Experienced professionals giving back, not just their time and expertise, but practical tools that help bring NDT to life for the next generation.

The event served as a reminder that the strength of our industry lies not only in technical excellence, but in the willingness of its people to give back and inspire others. With continued collaboration between employers, training providers and BINDT volunteers, the UK’s NDT community is building a powerful legacy, one that ensures the next generation of engineers are equipped, inspired and ready to carry the profession forward.

Please note that the views expressed in this column are those of the author and do not represent the views of Lavender International NDT or BINDT.

Sam Cunningham is with Lavender International NDT and is a member of BINDT’s Education & Professional Development Committee, which oversees the development of the NDT apprenticeships.

Employers in England looking to recruit an apprentice can find up-to-date guidance at: www.gov.uk/employing-an-apprentice

Details of the current apprenticeship vacancies in England are available at: www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship