Armac Group leader becomes new IDE president

Adrian McLean, President of The Institute of Demolition Engineers. (PHOTO: IDE/Jim Mayers)

Adrian, who takes over the role from past president Vernon Watson, was inducted at the IDE’s recent annual general meeting (AGM) in Birmingham.

Addressing IDE members, Adrian—who will see the organisation through its 50th anniversary in November 2026, said: “I feel very honoured to be standing here before you today as the incoming president of the Institute of Demolition Engineers.”

He added: “It is my intention to work tirelessly for the further development of the IDE and its members. We work best when we collaborate, so your support on this journey will be much appreciated.”

In recent years, the IDE has faced both financial and administrative difficulties. However, following the restructuring of the organisation, the institute’s new president has expressed his intent to reinvigorate the IDE by refocusing on its core principles and objectives.

There are key priorities that Adrian will drive during his presidency, but his focus will be to increase membership on a global level.

“As president, I will be seeking to increase membership across the UK and the world,” he said. “I want to achieve this whilst also maintaining our high standards of excellence—we are the only organisation in the world that champions demolition engineering. Two of last week’s D&Ri awards saw IDE engineers at the forefront of these achievements.”

Under Adrian’s direction, the IDE will also increase its focus on professional development initiatives. This will include exams, interviews, and regional meetings, as well as promoting its educational partnerships—particularly with the University of Wolverhampton to promote degrees in demolition engineering.

Despite the successful 2017 launch of the UK’s first-ever demolition degree courses, which was done in partnership with the University of Wolverhampton, the most recent intake for the IDE Foundation Degree in Demolition Management was postponed due to a drop in applicants.

The lack of interest in the courses may stem from the long-standing negative perception the public has of demolition industry work, something the new IDE president is keen to see change.

Another priority for Adrian is for the IDE to deepen its relationship with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), by actively participating in its roadshows to strengthen the IDE’s industry links.