Kari Armitage, Managing Director of Quarry Mining, shares her remarkable journey from civil engineering to leading a thriving manufacturing business in the mining industry. She discusses taking over the family business, growing it from just a few employees to over 100, and expanding into international markets. Kari provides a glimpse into Quarry Mining's innovative technologies, including 3D metal printing and lights-out machining. She reflects on the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry and offers advice for those looking to enter the field. Kari also touches on work-life balance, sharing her passion for long-distance triathlons. This conversation offers valuable insights into leadership, resilience, and the evolving landscape of manufacturing and mining in the Newcastle region.

Join us for an insightful conversation with James Thorning, General Manager of Nepean Power, as he shares his journey from a small-town upbringing to leading a major engineering company. James discusses his career path, the challenges of rapid business growth, and the importance of fostering a strong company culture. He offers valuable advice for aspiring engineers and leaders, emphasizing the significance of being useful in one's role and continuously improving. James also provides an inside look at Nepean Power's operations, their innovative approach to manufacturing, and their vision for the future of the power industry in the Hunter region. This episode is packed with wisdom on leadership, career development, and the exciting opportunities in the engineering and renewable energy sectors. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, you'll find inspiration and practical insights in this engaging discussion.

In this episode, Mel Sietsma sits down with Luke Dawson, Managing Director of Safe Guage. Luke shares his journey from plant mechanic to successful entrepreneur, detailing how he founded Safeguage in 2019 to create innovative safety solutions for the mining industry.

Luke discusses the company's rapid growth, expanding from Australia to the United States, and their mission to eliminate live work and improve technician safety. He offers insights into fostering a culture of innovation, the advantages of starting a business in Newcastle, and the exciting new projects Safeguage is working on, including imaging technology for remote inspections.

The conversation also touches on industry trends, the challenges of maintaining work-life balance as a business owner, and Luke's personal experiences of relocating to Arizona. This episode provides valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and a fascinating look into the world of mining technology and safety innovations.