Volunteer Spotlight: David Parr

At the heart of the engineering community are volunteers who quietly dedicate their time, skills and experience to supporting others. One of them is David Parr — a long-standing contributor whose journey shows just how far volunteering can take you, both professionally and personally.

David’s first steps into volunteering were shaped by encouragement early in his career. Support from colleagues — particularly a manager who helped guide him towards Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration — inspired him to get involved and give something back. He began by joining his Local Network as a visits secretary, a role that opened the door to organising activities, working with other engineers and building confidence in a structured, supportive environment.

As his career developed, so did his desire to mentor others. Training as an IET mentor allowed him to support postgraduates across different organisations, offering clarity on progression, expectations and professional pathways. Helping engineers navigate qualification routes is a responsibility many experienced professionals take seriously, especially as the landscape evolves with new regulations and industry demands.

That experience eventually led David to become a Professional Registration Advisor — a role centred on guiding engineers through the complex registration process. Understanding how qualifications align, how portfolios are reviewed and how competence is demonstrated mirrors the structured approach taken in vocational pathways today, including detailed training routes like electrical inspection and testing for working electricians (https://elec.training/news/understanding-electrical-inspection-and-testing-for-working-electricians/). Consistency, clarity and confidence all play a part.

David also contributed to shaping the IET’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) framework, aligning it with Engineering Council requirements. It was hands-on work — a real lesson in how engineers grow throughout their careers. CPD has become a critical part of professional life, especially as new technologies, regulations and electrical safety standards emerge, such as those covered in the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (https://elec.training/news/the-18th-edition-wiring-regulations-why-they-still-matter-in-2025/). Staying current is part of staying safe.

One unforgettable moment in David’s volunteering journey took place at the National Railway Museum in York, where he unexpectedly became the sole Professional Registration Advisor for a major event. Over an afternoon, he interviewed 13 potential applicants — an intense but rewarding challenge. In true engineer fashion, he still found time to explore the museum and admire the iconic Mallard locomotive. It was a reminder that volunteering doesn’t just build skills; it creates experiences you carry with you.

For anyone considering taking on a voluntary role, David’s advice is simple: be open. Try something new, explore opportunities and don’t be afraid to step back if something isn’t the right fit. Engineering thrives on collaboration, and volunteering is one of the most effective ways to build your network, develop your communication skills and see the profession from new angles.

Many volunteers say the experience improves their confidence in guiding others — something closely linked to transferable skills used across the industry, from team coordination to understanding industry responsibilities and expectations. This mirrors what learners develop during structured training, highlighted in articles like top tips for your first day on the job as an electrician (https://elec.training/news/top-tips-for-your-first-day-on-the-job-as-an-electrician/). Preparation comes from people who’ve walked the path before.

Outside volunteering, David enjoys gardening — a grounding contrast to the technical work of engineering — and spending time with his grandchildren.

His story is a powerful reminder: volunteering isn’t just a contribution to the engineering community; it’s a path that strengthens your career, expands your skills and supports the next generation coming through. And if you’re feeling inspired, the doors are open. The IET continues to welcome new volunteers across mentoring, CPD advising, professional registration support and community networks.