Chris McDermott – Meet The Instructor

How long have you been a driving instructor for?

I’ve been training people to drive, both cars and minibusses, for over 14 years, although I have had a couple of sabaticals in between.

What were you doing before that?

Before becomming a driver trainer, I worked in the nuclear industry. I started, making fuel for nuclear power stations, which I did for a few years, before moving on to deliver smart working, and various other roles within the industry.
Previous to that I was in the army, serving in the Gloucestershire Regiment.

What do you enjoy most about driving instructing?

I enjoy the job immensely, but the thing I enjoy most is quite simple. I get great pleasure seeing someone that I have trained to drive passed their test. It is a feeling that never gets old!

Is there anything you dislike about the job?

There are 2 things that I dislike. The first one is unreliable pupils. It is irritating when you book lessons in for someone only for them to cancel at the last minute. Also, it may be my military training, but it does irritate me when people struggle with punctuality.
My other big dislike is the other motorists that we encounter on a daily basis, who are impatient with learner drivers. It also annoys me how many drivers on the road can’t be bothered to use indicators, and those that seem to think learner drivers are game for bullying tactics.

What are your interests/hobbies outside of driving instructing?

I have varied interests outside of driver training. Rugby is a big one (both codes), and I really enjoy nights out with my wife, Jane. We enjoy going to the cinema, or watching local bands. I also really enjoy gardening, and getting my teeth into some DIY projects.
If I wasn’t doing this, and I had the money, I would love to help the homeless, and veterens, to get back on their feet.