David Cormack Begins Tenure as LEEA Board Chair
Cormack has begun a two-year term as chair of the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association, focusing on safety standards and global industry engagement.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Jan 21, 2026
David Cormack has begun a two-year term as chair of the Board of Directors of the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA), effective Jan. 1, 2026. He succeeds Oliver Auston, who completed his term after serving as chair for two years.
Cormack previously served as LEEA vice chair alongside Auston and has been a member of the association’s Technical Committee.
“I would like to thank Oliver Auston for his tremendous work as chair,” Cormack said. “During this time, LEEA has made significant progress in supporting its members and raising standards across the lifting industry. I look forward to helping continue that momentum as LEEA enters its next phase of development.”
Cormack said a key focus of his tenure will be the introduction of LEEA’s new end-user grade of membership, aimed at engaging organizations that own, procure, and operate lifting equipment.
“By directly engaging end users, LEEA is strengthening its ability to influence safety and best practice across the entire lifting lifecycle,” he said. “This approach reflects the realities of a modern, global industry and aligns those with responsibility for lifting operations with the same standards, guidance, and education that underpin our existing membership.”
Cormack has spent his career in the lifting industry, beginning as an apprentice with Coubro & Scrutton, a founder member of the Chain Testers Association, which later evolved into LEEA. He developed a broad engineering background that included machining, welding, and design work before rising to the role of marine sales manager.
In 2001, Cormack founded Delphini, a company that manufactures lifting, securing, and access products primarily for the marine sector and produces specialist structural steelwork. The company exports to ship owners, agents, and port operators worldwide.
“It is important that LEEA keeps pace with a changing world while continuing to raise standards and promote safe practice,” Cormack said. “I will be working closely with the board and leadership team to support members, champion the global lifting industry, and continue LEEA’s growth.”
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.