Kristian Hampson

Kristian is the Group technical manager for IMechE Argyll Ruane and IMechE Fife NDT.  With over 14 years’ experience working internationally, Kristian has a breadth of knowledge using inspection techniques such as Magnetic Testing, Penetrant Testing, Ultrasonic Testing, Eddy Current Testing, Phased Array and Radiographic Testing, across a multitude of industry sectors, including Oil & Gas, General Fabrication, Power, Aerospace and Nuclear. 

Kristian joined IMechE Argyll Ruane in 2018 as a Level 3 Consultant and since this time, he has supported the organisation in a number of roles in addition to his Level 3 Consultancy role. These include Lead Auditor, Deputy PCN Coordinator, progressing to Quality Manager and PCN Coordinator in 2022.  

In 2023, Kristian transitioned to a newly formed role of Group Technical Manger and is responsible for implementing best practice and standardising processes/procedures across both sites, along with driving improvement activities, such as the remastering of Training and Examination samples. 

Kristian also continues to support the business with: 

• Provision of Level 3 Consultancy Services, including acting as a responsible Level 3, procedure writing, conducting performance reviews, scan plan writing and conducting audits 
• Provision of international training courses 
• Examination marking 

How did you first hear about the NDT industry?  

I moved to Australia for a gap year at the age of 18 to live with some distant relatives I had never met in Darwin. Upon arrival I was offered some TA work at a company who did NDT. I had no idea what NDT was at the time but needless to say once I started there I have never looked back.  

What do you enjoy about working in NDT? 

The variation of industries we work in makes every day interesting, to see lots of different processes and NDT methods in practice.  

I was lucky with my former employer; they had such a diverse work scope giving me the ability to use multiple methods and gain great practical experience in multiple industry sectors. Things that I have done and seen I will carry with me forever.  

Top tip for anyone entering the NDT industry. 

Be proactive, show initiative, show integrity and be willing to get your hands dirty (and covered in red penetrant).  

Also, be mindful that every day working in NDT is a school day and you or nobody else will ever know everything! Show patience to people who are just starting out and try to pass on any advice you can as that will only help the industry in the future. 

The fun stuff! What’s your favourite: 

Food: Indian Food!  

Drink: Hendricks G & T and a slice of cucumber. 

Film, TV or book: Succession – some of the best TV I have ever seen. 

Holiday: I love going to Singapore, visited many times and never get sick of it. 

Qualifications:

PCN Level 2: Ultrasonic testing (Welds 3.1, 3.2,3.7,3.8,3.9), Penetrant Testing, Magnetic Particle Testing, Eddy Current Testing, Radiographic Testing & Phased Array 

PCN Level 3: Magnetic Particle Testing, Penetrant Testing, Ultrasonic Testing, Phased Array, Radiographic Testing & Eddy Current Testing 

ASNT Level 3: Radiographic Testing, Ultrasonic Testing 

Certifications  

Affiliate Member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers  

Full Member of The British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (BINDT) 

Full Member of The American Society of Non-Destructive Testing (ASNT)