In 2025, we proudly mark 40 years of Argyll Ruane’s journey. From humble beginnings in 1985, our dedicated team has been at the forefront of supporting the Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), coatings, and corrosion industries, delivering world-class training, examinations, and consultancy services.
Our story is one of innovation, growth, and a consistent commitment to excellence. Let’s take a walk through the milestones that have shaped who we are today.
1985 – 1995: Laying the foundations
In 1985, Argyll Ruane was born as Ruane Technical Services, founded in the heart of Yorkshire, England. The company was built on a strong ethos: “A professional service by professional people.” The team began offering NDT training and examinations, with Ruane & T P O’Neill providing the training and the Northern Test Centre providing examinations.
By 1992, the company had grown enough to open an additional centre at Meadowbank Road in Rotherham. That same year, a partnership with the Institute of Corrosion (ICorr) was formed to deliver corrosion prevention training, marking the beginning of our expansion into the coatings industry.
1996 – 2005: Building Our Global Presence
As the company continued to thrive, 1997 marked a pivotal moment with the opening of our first international Authorised Examination Centre (AEC) in Malaysia, allowing us to extend our reach into the Asian market. In 1998, the company officially rebranded to Argyll-Ruane Limited, solidifying its identity on the global stage.
By 1999, we introduced our first Level 3 Consultancy Services department, which quickly became a highly respected team of 14 Level 3 Consultants. These experts were known for their technical knowledge and professionalism, providing NDT consultancy, training, and examinations across engineering sectors worldwide.
2006 – 2015: Strengthening expertise
In 2012, Argyll Ruane was acquired by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), further expanding its reach and influence in the industry. In 2013, we launched Advanced Ultrasonic Testing courses such as Phased Array and Time of Flight Diffraction, adding innovative techniques to our portfolio.
By 2015, we relocated to our new, state-of-the-art Engineering Training Centre at Europa View in Sheffield, ensuring the best possible facilities for NDT and ICorr training and examinations. The same year, we rebranded as Engineering Training Solutions, later evolving into IMechE Argyll Ruane, and became an Approved Learning Provider for the Ministry of Defence’s Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) Scheme, a partnership that lasted for nearly a decade.
2016 – 2022: Innovating and expanding
The following years were defined by innovation and expansion. In 2018, we partnered with learning providers to support the newly launched NDT Apprenticeships, helping to shape the future workforce of the industry.
In 2019, we were one of the first UK training schools to implement online PCN examinations. This was a significant milestone in our continued drive for innovation, followed by the launch of online Coatings inspection courses, approved by ICorr.
In 2020, the global pandemic accelerated our move to digital, and we launched a Blended Online Training Platform, becoming one of the first UK training providers to offer online Level 3 and blended Level 2 NDT training courses.
By 2021, our expansion took us to Scotland with a new training centre in Dunfermline, providing local access to NDT and coatings courses for the Scottish market.
In 2022, we introduced a Money-Back Guarantee for UK NDT courses and launched the Industrial Coatings Applicator Training Scheme (ICATs), alongside FMC/TFM/TFMi and related technologies courses.
2023 – 2024: A new era: Strengthening our leadership
In 2023, we entered a new chapter with the introduction of a new senior leadership team, embarked on a transformative journey with the appointment of a dynamic senior leadership team, ushering in a new chapter of growth and innovation.
The following year, 2024, saw a major turning point. Members of the management team acquired IMechE Argyll Ruane, bringing the company back to its roots with the reinstatement of its original name, Argyll Ruane Limited. This transition sets the stage for the next exciting chapter of growth and innovation.
2025: Celebrating 40 years of success
And here we are in 2025 – 40 years strong, celebrating the legacy we’ve built and the bright future ahead. With over 114,500 NDT and ICorr examinations administered, a global presence in over 14 countries, and a dedicated team of 29 professionals, Argyll Ruane has never been in a stronger position to continue supporting the NDT and coatings industries.
We couldn’t be prouder of where we’ve come from, and we’re excited for what lies ahead. Here’s to the next 40 years!
Celebrate with us!
To mark the occasion, we’re launching a special giveaway where you could win one of four fantastic prizes!
- 1st prize: Sonatest UT Wave flaw detector
- 2nd prize: Voucher for an NDT training course
- 3rd prize: Voucher for a Coatings inspection training course
- 4th prize: £500 Virgin experience voucher
Terms and conditions apply, read in full.
Entry open date: Thursday 3 July 2025
Entry deadline: Friday 1 August 2025
Announcement of winners: Wednesday 6 August 2025
