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Our Team

Our Team

At Watkins Steel, we employ over 50 staff across estimating, scanning, drafting, fabricating, and installation. Our team is dedicated to providing the best solutions for you, and combine years of experience to deliver exceptional project results.

Des Watkins

Des Watkins

Director

 

Des has been director of Watkins Steel since 2004, taking over from his father after working at the company for 10 years. Possessing a Graduate Diploma of Teaching (Science and Maths) and a Bachelor of Applied Science and Construction Mgt., Des has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the steel fabrication industry. Responsible for spearheading multiple initiatives over the years, Des has successfully implemented best practice lean manufacturing procedures in the factory and transformed the way Watkins Steel operates as a steel fabrication company. Passionate about innovation, Des has led the Watkins Steel team to new heights by overseeing the development of the “Watkins Steel Four Step Process”, an end-to-end digital workflow for steel fabrication and installation that is unique to Watkins Steel.

Tony Dickinson

Tony Dickinson

Business Development Manager

 

Tony has been part of the furniture at Watkins Steel since 2005. Starting out as a boilermaker, Tony worked his way up to Factory Foreman, Project Manager, and then Estimating Manager. Becoming Business Development Manager in 2011, Tony went on to complete a Diploma of Management in 2013. Following his attendance at a design-led innovation workshop in 2015, Tony has been instrumental in helping to develop the “Watkins Steel Four Step Process”. After years of using traditional steel fabrication processes in construction projects, Tony has seen firsthand how innovative technology has significantly improved the efficacy of steel fabrication and installation at Watkins Steel. As Business Development Manager, Tony is focused on consistently creating and delivering new customer value for all of our clients.

ben_trousdell

Ben Trousdell

Project Manager / Estimator

 

Ben joined Watkins Steel in 2008, completing the last 18 months of his boiler making apprenticeship with All Trades. During his years at Watkins Steel, Ben has completed a Diploma of Management, Cert IV in Front Line Management, and an AutoCAD short course. In 2010, Ben became an estimator before adding project management to his duties in 2012. As a project manager, Ben has overseen notable projects such as the Karawatha Discovery Centre, Jupiter Casino – Botanica Restaurant, Energex Victoria Park, and RACV Royal Pines. Currently studying a Bachelor of Applied Science (Construction Management), Ben combines years of practical experience with technical training to consistently deliver exceptional project results.

Andy Irwin

Andy Irwin

Senior Draftsman

 

Andy came from a mining construction background to join Watkins Steel in 2004. A qualified boilermaker and site supervisor, Andy also holds licenses as a crane operator and rigger. Starting out in estimating and factory/site management, Andy began detail drafting and project management in 2005. Over his years at Watkins Steel, Andy has been involved in notable projects such as Loreto College – structure and façade metalwork, the design and construction of the Watkins Steel facility in Banyo, and the Virgin Australia BNE Airside Bagging Handling Upgrade. Responsible for integrating the various software platforms between Spatial Laser Scan Data, Tekla Structures Software, and CNC Robotics, Andy has played a key role in the development of the end-to-end digital workflow that Watkins Steel uses today. With an eye for detail and a passion for technology and BIM, Andy brings years of experience and skill to any construction project requiring steel work.