Farewell, Mark Carter
This week, we farewell Mark Carter (Foreman) as he retires after an outstanding career spanning 21 years with Paynters.
Mark first joined us in December 1996 and has had various stints with Paynters over the years, making a lasting impact. His contributions, leadership, and collaborative efforts have been key to the success of many projects, and his expertise will be deeply missed.
Before starting his well-deserved retirement, we sat down with Mark to reflect on his time with us. Here’s what he shared:
Early Days
Mark completed a five-year Diploma of Applied Science (Building) through correspondence and began his carpentry apprenticeship in early 1973.
“Rewinding to the first day on the job – the boss had me doing a couple of jobs that made no sense whatsoever. I later found out that all the tradies onsite were having a good laugh at my expense.
It was all water off a duck’s back from that day onwards, but overall the four years of the apprenticeship were most enjoyable.”
Career Highlights
- Favourite Project:
My favourite project was coincidentally the first one I did for Paynters in 1997 being a visual arts building at Griffith University Gold Coast campus which was not only a great place to work but also involved a building with an unusual design – a number of main walls were out of plumb which was something quite unfamiliar to me at the time. A great CA on the project though….. Brett Johnston (Current Paynters Managing Director)!
- Most Challenging Project:
Again, Griffith University Gold Coast campus (how lucky was I) with the Science 2 building – we had to build a room within that housed a million-dollar electromagnet and then install it at completion – all 2 tons of it.
Industry Insights
- How the Industry Has Changed:
With a new generation of architects and engineers coming through and materials constantly evolving, today’s buildings are indeed both amazing and impressive but are becoming increasingly difficult to build meaning time and cost overruns can prove fatal if not mitigated against by good management and choosing the right subcontractors.
- Advice for the Future Generation:
Make the most of the new technology to streamline policies and procedures, the industry is in danger of becoming top heavy with time consuming reporting methods.
Looking Ahead
- What He’ll Miss Most:
The sense of achievement after a good day and the purpose in life provided by working for an under management and philosophies of Paynters for all these years.
It has been personally meaningful and left however small, a positive ‘mark’ on the world (no pun intended).
- Retirement Plans:
Setting some new goals and reading some good books all the while enjoying some time by the pool.
Final Words
A big thank you to all at Paynters. Bye everybody.
Mark, we thank you for everything you’ve contributed to Paynters and wish you all the best in retirement. Here’s to relaxing days, new adventures, and cherished memories!
