Colin McCaughey is a self-employed trainer and assessor in the plastering trade, with a long-standing and respected career in both practical and educational aspects of the field. Interestingly, his journey into plastering began by chance rather than by design. Initially, Colin had applied for a plumbing course at his local government training centre. After completing the interview process, he was informed that the plumbing course was full and was instead offered a place in the plastering program. Despite the unexpected change, Colin never looked back and soon developed a deep passion for the trade.
Colin began working in plastering at the young age of sixteen. His formal training started with nine months at a local government training centre, followed by a three-year apprenticeship with McLaughlin & Harvey in Belfast. During this time, he also attended the College of Technology in Belfast, which later became Belfast Institute and eventually Belfast Met. Through his education and hands-on experience, he earned both Craft and Advanced Craft qualifications in plastering.
His career as a plasterer spanned ten years, working first with McLaughlin & Harvey and later with R. Moreland & Sons Plastering. In the late 1980s, Colin transitioned into education, joining the college as a plastering lecturer. This move allowed him to combine his trade expertise with a passion for teaching, helping to train and guide future generations of plasterers.
While Colin does not currently employ apprentices or trainees directly, he continues to contribute significantly to the industry by educating aspiring plasterers and dry liners. He considers himself an all-rounder in the trade, having been trained in all aspects of plastering. However, he has a particular fondness for fibrous work, which he enjoys due to its uniqueness and creative challenge compared to more routine tasks.
Looking to the future, Colin is committed to continuing his work in training the next wave of plasterers. His goal is to give back to the industry by sharing the knowledge and experience he has accumulated over the years. Although he no longer actively plasters, his involvement remains visible through social media, where he shares content related to college work and regional and national SkillBuild competitions. His dedication to the trade and to education ensures that his legacy will continue through the many students he mentors.
Colin can be contacted at 07879614370 for inquiries related to Errigal Academy Trainer Assessor?
Lath and Plaster 