This year marks a remarkable milestone for Steve, who celebrates 10 years with JC Metalworks. At 60 years old, Steve brings with him a lifetime of knowledge in the metal industry — a journey that began at just 16 when he started as an apprentice with GC Smith Coach Boxes. From those early days of fabrication and welding through to his current role as Account Manager, Steve’s career is a story of passion, perseverance, and people.
Building Relationships That Last
When Steve joined JC Metalworks in 2015, he already had years of experience as an Account Manager under his belt. His ability to connect with people has always been at the heart of his success. One standout highlight for him came in 2019 when he brought onboard one of the company’s biggest clients, ByBox (now Thinventry). Meeting Tony from ByBox was, in Steve’s words, “an instant connection.” For Steve, adapting to different personalities and building trust is the key to strong, long-lasting relationships — a skill that clients often praise him for.
“I enjoy interacting with people and understanding them — whether it’s clients, colleagues, or apprentices,” Steve explains. “Face-to-face conversations are amazing, and I like to guide my clients with the knowledge I’ve built over the years.”
From the Workshop to the Sales Floor
Steve’s hands-on background in fabrication and welding gives him a unique advantage as an Account Manager. He can quickly visualise the products, spot potential issues, and offer value engineering suggestions that truly add value for clients. This ability to bridge technical know-how with commercial understanding has made him a trusted partner to customers and a respected figure within the JC team.
Over the past decade, Steve says one of the biggest lessons he’s learned at JC is becoming more sales-focused and developing a sharper eye for direct sales — a shift that has brought both personal growth and business success.
Mentoring the Next Generation
While Steve has achieved great success with clients, one of the things he’s most proud of is his role as a mentor. Supporting apprentices has become one of his biggest drivers at JC Metalworks.
“There’s nothing better than passing on what I’ve learned,” Steve shares with pride. “When I see apprentices excel, when their work is appreciated, it’s a fantastic feeling. It’s like they’re carrying my legacy forward.”
Steve doesn’t just teach technical skills — he also instils the values of hard work, listening, and adapting. Many apprentices look up to him not just as a mentor but as a role model, and he has built strong bonds across the shop floor. His influence ensures that the knowledge he’s accumulated over decades in the industry won’t be lost, but instead will continue to shape JC’s future talent.
Staying Motivated After a Decade
Even after 10 years, Steve’s drive hasn’t dimmed. Winning new business and seeing projects succeed continues to give him energy. “Each win makes me excited and motivated — and then I’m immediately looking for the next,” he says with a grin.
Life Beyond JC Metalworks
Away from the office, Steve can still be found in his workshop — but these days, it’s small engine repairs that keep him busy. He has a particular passion for fixing lawnmowers, which has become something of an obsession. Looking further ahead, he dreams of creating a trike entirely by himself — a project that would bring together his love for welding and hands-on engineering.
A Legacy of Hard Work and Heart
Asked what advice he would give to someone just starting out at JC Metalworks, Steve keeps it simple: “Work hard and listen to people with experience.” It’s this down-to-earth approach that defines his career.
As Steve celebrates 10 years with JC Metalworks, his contribution goes far beyond client wins and sales growth. He has become a mentor, a motivator, and a cornerstone of the friendly, collaborative culture that makes JC what it is today. His legacy will live on not just in the business he’s brought in, but in the people he has guided and inspired along the way.
Here’s to Steve — 10 years of dedication, and a lasting impact that will carry forward for many more.
