IDE president: ‘We must attract young people’

Incoming president David Darsey has told Institute of Demolition Engineers (IDE) members that the industry needs more young people to avoid becoming stale.

David succeeded Duncan Rudall at the recent Annual General Meeting. He has been managing director of Erith Contractors in the south-east of England since 1985.

Gary Bishop, managing director of Bromley Demolition, was elected vice-president.

“I am very passionate about the industry. I look forward to expanding on where we are at this time,” David said at the London event.

“We need to attract young people into the profession or it will get stale. We must promote the IDE to clients as the best way forward.

“I will support the institute in all areas for the benefit of our industry.”

The IDE celebrated its 40^th anniversary this year. However it is also looking to the future after teaming up with Wolverhampton University to offer the country’s first demolition degree course.

More than 30 members were presented with professional qualifications at the AGM, while Steve Jack and John Woodward, who are standing down from the IDE, received awards for long service.

The lifetime achievement award went to Ron Callan of Kocurek for services to demolition.