Edward MacDonald - Transport NSW
The Newcastle Light Rail project was a high profile project constructed in the centre of a major regional city. Construction activities were highly visible and in plain view of adjacent main roads, high-rise office and apartment buildings. This level of exposure resulted in a high level of scrutiny from the media, local politicians and residents alike. As Site Manager for the maintenance building / control centre offices and the light rail ‘stops’ scope, Mick was responsible for some of the more public facing components of the project works. Mick’s effective management of his work fronts resulted in minimal impact to the surrounding city scape, residents and traffic. Mick successfully negotiated the multitude of construction constraints by effectively interfacing with other subcontractors on a heavily congested site, implementing risk and safety controls, utilising opportunities such as out of hours works and accelerating timelines where appropriate or necessary.
Mick’s interpersonal skills made him approachable to myself and other members of the client-side team and his professionalism made him the perfect candidate for providing regular site tours to major stakeholders and project executives. Any requests for information or clarifications sent to Mick were met with a proactive and responsive attitude, always maintaining an objective position and exhibiting a collaborative approach to achieve the common goal of delivering the works on time and to the highest quality. Mick’s contagious enthusiasm combined with his experience and comprehensive understanding of the project construction requirements was an integral component of the project’s successful delivery.
- Edward MacDonald – Client Side Representative team Newcastle Light Rail
NB. the above testimonial is based on my personal views and are not necessarily reflective of those of Transport for NSW or the Newcastle Light Rail project.
Mark Pugh - Pro Stainless
I have known and worked with Mick Thompson over the past 10 years in his role as a site manager at North Construction. Most recent projects being Woy Woy Grandstand and Newcastle Light Rail.
During the course of the Woy Woy Grandstand project Mick gained the respect of my Staff at Pro Stainless as he coordinated and managed the plethora of personalities involved with this project. His enthusiastic, optimistic attitude is contagious and serves to motivate and energize his project staff. Mick is very calm and collected under pressure and has superb problem-solving skills as well as exceptional team-building skills.
In the course of managing this project, Mick, to me demonstrated an ability to quickly sift through problems and determine which was relevant to the project and should be attended to and which was irrelevant and could be discarded. Mick was able to focus on the stated objectives of the project and prioritize every task necessary to enable my staff to accomplish our desired end result.
During his current role as Site manager at Newcastle Light Rail Mick has kept all staff members, as well as management, informed of the progress through every phase. Notably and a credit to Mick, during the early stages of Pro Stainless’s involvement in the Newcastle Light Rail Project, Mick assisted in the development of our Prototypes with daily visits to the workshop, demonstrating his Architectural knowledge and Engineering skills. His skills and professionalism greatly helped, keeping a smooth transition from prototype to job site on such a “high end, architectural and detailed job.” He possesses excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Pro Stainless looks forward to working with Mick Thompson on future Projects.
Regards, Mark Pugh.
Nelson Florimo - Carpenter/Leading Hand
I have known Mick since starting my apprenticeship with North Construction in January 2015 and have worked closely with him on 2 large projects; As a second year apprentice on the Nareen Terrace Aged Care Village, and again at the Newcastle Light Rail in my 4th year.
Mick’s approach to sub-contractors, clients and the team around him is to ensure everyone is working towards a common goal. He is able to recognise strengths and weaknesses in those he works with, builds on those strengths, and identifies ways to improve. He leads by example at all times and strives towards excellence, not only for the projects he is involved with, but for the benefit of those around him.
Mick’s influence has encouraged me to set long and short term goals and to push myself in areas that were out of my comfort zone. Such as public speaking, confidence in decision making, and to take on greater responsibilities, both in and outside of work.
I have been lucky enough to be involved in smaller carpentry projects outside of work through Mick. This gave me the opportunity to expand my skill set, as well as getting to know Mick on a different level. He is passionate about life and takes on new challenges with enthusiasm, which is infectious for those around him.
Even when we aren’t working on the same project, he always gives his time generously. Mick has always been happy to offer me advice and guidance throughout my apprenticeship, which has been invaluable. He has played a huge part in my career progression to becoming a leading hand, and to winning the Master Builders Association, regional Apprentice of the Year.
Mick has influenced my life in many positive ways and I regard him not only as a career mentor, but also as a valued friend. He has helped me make choices towards a clear direction for my career and to take challenges head on.