Trade assistant to senior engineer, Ryan’s growth at UGL
Starting as a trade assistant and rising to a senior engineer role at UGL over 10 years, Ryan Van Tonder reflects on his adaptability in achieving success.
Tell us about your journey at UGL
“I started at UGL as a trade assistant with the logistics and site team on a casual basis 10 years ago. My manager noted I was an engineer and put my name forward for a drag line project as they were looking for a planner scheduler. I was offered the job in the Mackay major projects team as I had previous experience and the team focused predominantly on drag line shutdowns. I started as a junior engineer travelling between the various sites for three to four years, gradually working from junior engineer to engineer.
“Once I started a family, I wanted to be based locally in Mackay, so I moved into a role assisting operations with developing tenders and estimates. From there I worked my way up to senior engineer.
“I have a lot of experience in different facets of the company. Even though I am quite young, I bring a lot of experience because I connect different people and teams. I have built up social credit over the years that has helped build lasting relationships inside and outside of the business.”
Describe your typical day
“In Mackay I assist three area managers with tenders and help develop estimates as a first basis principle. I liaise with our subject matter experts pulling together estimates and schedules to develop the rates that bring the whole workbook together for submission. I help with scheduling for our workshop to ensure all the jobs flow according to plan. My role also includes analysing overheads and helping to forecast. It’s quite a diverse day which I enjoy.”
Who has been your mentor in your time at UGL?
“There’s been a few project managers I have worked for that have mentored me. Mark Sheather, UGL Operations Manager Resources East, has been a great mentor, guiding me for the past four to five years since I have been in the senior engineer role. It has been a great opportunity to have this support in my career development.”
What advice would you give to someone starting at UGL?
“Exercise patience and dedicate ample time to comprehend the intricacies of the business, this will help to guarantee your success.”
