David Talbot

David spent 21 years as an RAF officer and left the forces as a squadron leader in 2007 after an exciting career that included numerous operational deployments. On leaving the military David initially managed the support services departments for RAF Cranwell and then ran a multi-activity contract at RAF Scampton, the then home of the Red Arrows.

David took on a new role with TQ Education and Training Ltd (a Pearson company) in 2010, where he specialised in outsourced work-based learning business development and operational delivery. In addition to being responsible for growing the business, David had a wide portfolio of activity ranging from delivering over 700 engineering apprenticeships a year to providing residential outdoor activity courses for community projects, corporate organisations and schools. He eventually moved on to work for BAE Systems as the Head of the Aircraft Maintenance Academy at Humberside airport, training the next generation of aircraft technicians working on fast jet aircraft for BAE’s military contracts within the UK and overseas.

The opportunity arose in late 2015 to lead the next phase in the development of CATCH and David took over as Chief Executive on 4 January 2016. CATCH is an industry led partnership that supports the process, energy, engineering and renewables industries with membership services, education and training programmes. David is enjoying the challenge of engaging with stakeholders within the region, nationally and internationally, and supporting the CATCH members and wider network in delivering the UK’s skills needs within the net zero landscape.