Meet our ICorr Assessors: David Eyre

At Corrodere Academy, we’re proud to introduce the expert trainers and assessors who deliver our ICorr Coating Inspection courses. Today, we’re pleased to feature David Eyre, our Training Director and a long-standing ICorr trainer and assessor. With nearly five decades of experience in the protective coatings industry, David has trained and mentored professionals around the world—and continues to play a key role in shaping the next generation of Inspectors.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got into the protective coatings industry?

I started in the coatings industry 48 years ago as an apprentice. After several years on the tools, I joined a coating distributor in the London area and moved into a technical sales role. From those early days, my career has taken me all over the world in both technical and commercial positions.

How long have you been delivering ICorr training and assessments?

Since 2013, so 12 years!

What does a typical training or assessment day look like for you?

I’m usually in the office around 7:30 a.m. to clear as much of my inbox as possible before I begin training. I then prepare all the equipment and ensure the electronics and media are set up and working correctly.

At 9:00 a.m., the students arrive, and we spend some time getting to know one another. I always encourage interaction throughout the day—it makes the session more enjoyable and engaging for everyone. I try to end each day on a positive note, with every student leaving confident in the knowledge they’ve gained.

What do you enjoy most about delivering ICorr training?

Hopefully the satisfaction of inspiring the younger students—seeing their enthusiasm for the industry and how it opens up a whole new world of opportunity. I was that person once!

What do you think sets the ICorr certification apart in the industry?

It has 100% global recognition. Wherever I’ve worked in the world, my ICorr Level 3 qualification has been respected as the benchmark standard in the industry.

How do you support students who may be struggling with certain concepts or assessments?

I’m a strong believer in the building-block approach. When introducing new concepts, I always link them back to something the student already understands. I also ask questions to confirm they’ve grasped the material.

Before a practical ICorr assessment, I take a little time to get to know the student and explain that it’s just the two of us discussing inspection equipment and standards. I also reassure them that there’s no need to rush—we have plenty of time. Usually, they’re smiling before the assessment even begins.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in the protective coatings industry?

It’s not just a job—it can be a lifelong career that can take you all over the world in many different directions. The harder you work and the more sacrifices you’re prepared to make, the greater the rewards will be.

Candidate Feedback:

“I had the privilege of being taught by David for both the practical and theory sessions. He is a great trainer who takes time with his delegates and goes above and beyond to ensure everyone understands the material and feels confident before their exams.”

— Johnny Morton – Project Engineer/Technical Authority at Bilfinger UK and ICorr STGB Chair

David’s dedication to his students and the protective coatings industry is evident in every workshop he delivers. At Corrodere Academy, we’re incredibly fortunate to have him leading our training efforts and helping maintain the high standards of ICorr certification worldwide.