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PROTECH PEOPLE: MEET RUSSELL JOHNSON
How an ambitious Google search led to Russell Johnson to a successful career with real purpose.
Russell Johnson’s story with Protech began by chance. But it’s no accident that he continues to accomplish tremendous goals with us three years later. As a Boilermaker, Russell has enjoyed a variety of long-term roles, and is challenged to build on his skills each day. He’s dedicated to building cars in his spare time and doesn’t have to sacrifice his passion for a fulfilling career.
More than just a number
Picture this: Russell is sitting in front of his computer, ready to take the next step in his career. He’s just returned to New South Wales’ Central Coast from living overseas, but has spent much of his life working in Kalgoorlie’s gold mines. With a wealth of experience building vehicles and underground equipment under his belt, Russell types into Google a query that would take him on his next adventure: best labour hire company in New South Wales.
“Protech came up first for me,” Russell says. “So, I did a bit of research on who works for them, because I knew some other people who said it was a good company to work for. And they were right.”
Three years later, we’re thrilled to say Russell is still on the journey with us. And he’s just as proud of the fulfilling work he does as a Boilermaker. Russell loves seeing the coal trains and wagons in Newcastle chug past, and being able to say he helped create them. While he’s been part of other labour hire companies in the past, Russell’s work is more meaningful with Protech. Why? He says it’s because of how we care for our people.
“It doesn’t feel like a labour hire company – it feels like you’re working directly with them. I feel the same about my parent company as I do about Protech. I’m not just a number, I’m a person. I’ve worked for others who aren’t so personable, but with Protech, they look after their people. That’s why I’ve stayed so long.”
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A balancing act
Life is all about stability for Russell. When he’s not building cars or attending car meets, he can be seen at the beach with his best furry friend, Stella! Russell lives out his passion for constructing vehicles while on the job and at home, and enjoys that he’s given the opportunity to do both.
“I have a great work-life balance,” Russell says. “The companies I work for, they want you to have weekends to yourself – it’s not all about work. That helps to keep me engaged.”
Russell loves his free time but he’s always up for a challenge, too! He speaks very highly of the companies he’s contracted with, and says the work keeps him coming back for more. From welding stainless steel with Aurizon to creating mining equipment with Komatsu, Russell appreciates the diversity of his roles both past and present. He says Protech goes above and beyond in finding the right positions for him.
“Every role they’ve given me has been long term. And they really strive to find me great places to work. I’ve learned a lot of different skills with the companies I’ve worked for, so it’s been awesome to progress in my career. When I go to a new job and they ask me about the skills I have, they say, ‘We need people like you.’ I’m grateful for each place Protech has found for me.”
A bright future
Colleagues don’t become a team just because they work together – they become a team because they respect and support each other. And Russell can safely say that he’s struck gold with Protech. He enjoys spending time with his workmates onsite, but feels particularly connected to his representatives. Russell is thankful for the Protech Newcastle team for always having his back.
“I’ve never had reps like Protech. They’re always there to talk to and will help you with anything you need. It makes a big difference.”
Russell feels fortunate to have the people from Protech in his corner – not just for their friendship, but because they truly want him to succeed. He knows the future is bright with Protech, and is excited for what he’s yet to achieve.
“My goal with Protech is to continue working hard in the roles they give me, and then one day, I’d like to become a representative myself. Protech has been supportive of that and I’m looking forward to showing the same level of encouragement to others who join us in the future.”
