David Griffin retires after decades of service to the NDT industry

After an incredible career spanning more than four decades in the Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) industry, we mark the retirement of David Griffin.

A respected and long-serving member of our organisation, David has not only established new departments, but has also created a culture of integrity, precision, and mentorship – leaving behind a legacy that will continue to benefit the company and the wider NDT community.

We take a moment to reflect on key milestones in David’s 48-year career.

A lifelong dedication to NDT

1980 – 1987: Early career

David began his career as a Metallurgical Technician at British Steel Corporation.
In September 1980, at the age of 19, David found his chosen career path when he joined Forgemasters as an NDT Trainee.
He progressed to become a Senior NDT Operator, covering Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), and Penetrant Testing (PT).
In 1985, David was among the first to gain PCN Level 2 certification in UT, MT and PT.

1988 – 1999: Leadership in industry

In 1988, David took a further step in his NDT career, when he was appointed NDT Manager at William Oxleys, Sheffield. 
By August 1995, he became managed three sites of what was then named Aurora Forgings.
David was appointed as Rolls Royce supplier Level 3, overseeing all NDT activities. He successfully obtained multiple ASNT NDT Level III certifications and began delivering NDT Training and Examinations for Aurora Group NDT personnel. 
Shaping the future at Argyll Ruane

1999 – 2020: Building a Level 3 Services department

It was clear David had a passion for NDT, with a driving force to support the engineering industry and educate the industry about NDT. He joined Argyll Ruane Limited in February 1999 to establish their NDT ‘Level 3 Services’ department.  
David was initially the sole Level 3 Consultant, Trainer and Examiner, but he soon developed this into a team of 14 Level 3 Consultants, offering NDT Consultancy Services, Training and Examinations across multiple engineering sectors worldwide. His work laid the foundation for a highly respected service known for its professionalism and technical knowledge.
Driven by a passion for continuous professional development, David furthered his Level 3 Certifications by obtaining PCN’s, along with ASNT NDT Level III in Radiography and Eddy Current Testing. Furthermore, David acquired several Level 3 supplier approvals from the likes of Rolls Royce, Augusta Westland, Airbus and BAE Systems.
David found time to support technical committees and groups, such as the ASNT North Atlantic Section (NATL) and Outside Agency/Inside Agency Group. He was appointed Chair of the ASNT North Atlantic Section in 2004 and in 2009, David received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the ASNT North Atlantic Section.
David also studied for the NDT degree from Northampton University, where he was awarded a BSc in NDT.
In 2011, David was honoured as a Fellow of ASNT.

2020 – 2025: Driving integrity within examination

In 2020, David transitioned into the role of Chief Examiner at Argyll Ruane, leading the day-to-day operations of the examinations department, assuming full responsibility for the technical and quality aspects of the examination process. His leadership ensured a fair, consistent approach for all candidates, whilst upholding the highest standards of quality and integrity, in both the certification process and the PCN scheme itself.  
David was later awarded the 2023 BINDT Nemet award for outstanding effective use of NDT, especially within small firms, over a period of 5-10 years or longer. 
In 2025, he transitioned to Deputy Chief Examiner, focusing on succession planning and mentoring, while preparing for retirement.

Reflections on David’s career

David describes his career as “A rollercoaster ride – sometimes scary, sometimes fun, sometimes hard, but I always got there in the end”.

When reflecting on his time at Argyll Ruane, David is particularly proud of building the Level 3 Services Department from the ground up, as well as shaping the Chief Examiner role into a fully functioning and respected area of the business.

When asked what he found most rewarding, he shared: “The people I have met, the places I have visited, and the things I have learned.”

A new chapter begins

In retirement, David looks forward to spending more time outdoors, particularly birdwatching and enjoying the peace and quiet of nature. While he’s excited for the next chapter, he shares a note of appreciation for the many people he’s worked alongside throughout his career: