Rising powered access professional becomes one of the world’s youngest IPAF instructors

Lawrence Latham, managing director of Latham’s Plant Hire, Repairs and Sales Ltd in the West Midlands, UK, has become one of the world’s youngest fully qualified IPAF MEWP Instructors after achieving the qualification at just 19 years old.

The achievement follows Lawrence’s successful completion of a Level 3 Lift Truck and Powered Access Engineering Technician apprenticeship at North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College in March this year. Together, these accomplishments mark an impressive early career in engineering, training and business leadership before he turns 20.

Lawrence’s career began with a strong interest in plant, training and site environments, developed through family involvement in the sector. After choosing to pursue powered access engineering while still at school, he completed his apprenticeship and then started his own plant hire business, focusing on growing the business through hands-on experience, industry knowledge and a passion for the industry

As an IPAF MEWP Instructor, Lawrence now delivers theoretical and practical training, assesses operator competence and supports candidates in using powered access equipment safely, confidently and effectively. He has also recently become an IPAF CAP qualified engineer, which means he is proficient in undertaking statutory inspections of MEWPs, MCWPs or construction hoists.

Paul Roddis, IPAF’s training manager, said, “I have noticed Lawrence consistently push beyond the boundaries of what many believed possible for someone so early in their career. By becoming the youngest person ever to achieve IPAF Instructor status and going on to attain CAP, he has established himself as one of the most highly qualified instructors in the industry, regardless of age.

“Lawrence combines exceptional ability, determination, and professionalism, and I have no doubt that he will play a part in the future of IPAF and that future looks good.”

Lawrence said: “To become one of the youngest IPAF instructors in the world at 19 was a proud moment, but it also came with a strong sense of responsibility to uphold high standards and represent the industry professionally. It proved to me that age isn’t a barrier if you’re willing to put the work in.

“Although I initially focused on plant hire, I had always grown up around training through my family’s involvement in the industry, which gave me a strong understanding of its importance from an early age. When the opportunity arose to become a qualified IPAF instructor at 19, I saw it as a chance to build on that background and take on a new challenge. Having worked closely with powered access equipment, I developed a genuine passion for both the machines and sharing that knowledge with others. Becoming an instructor allowed me to combine my practical experience with training, helping others operate equipment safely and confidently while continuing to develop my own skills within the industry.”

Alongside his instructor role, Lawrence leads Latham’s Plant Hire, Repairs and Sales Ltd, where he combines technical engineering experience with business management. His ambition over the next five years is to grow the company into a multi-depot operation supported by a strong and reliable team.

Lawrence added, “A key challenge has been gaining credibility within the industry. Being younger, you often have to work harder to prove yourself and demonstrate your professionalism, knowledge, and capability. However, this has pushed me to stay focused, build resilience, and consistently deliver results, which has helped establish both my reputation and the business over time.

Lawrence believes the powered access industry offers significant opportunities for the next generation, particularly as demand grows for safe working at height, skilled engineers, professional training and high-quality service.

Lawrence continued: “My advice to anyone starting an apprenticeship today is to stay focused, stay keen and take every opportunity to learn. The effort you put in early on will benefit you in the long term. The industry is constantly evolving, so having the right attitude and a willingness to learn will set you apart. If you stay committed and make the most of your apprenticeship, it can open up a wide range of opportunities for your future.”