This story has been supplied by Coates
Darren Browne has established himself as an influential figure in Temporary Works engineering at Coates. Possessing a skill set that is both diverse and specialised, he has introduced valuable strategies and solutions that have enhanced both the team and projects at Coates.
“Originally from Ireland, I started as a graduate engineer for IBM about 17 years ago,” Browne recalls, reflecting on his early days in technical solution sales. However, his career experienced a marked shift when he joined Coates in Australia.
“I was really attracted to hydraulic shoring, and when I found out Coates are the exclusive provider of this in Australia, I was really excited,” he shares, spotlighting Coates’ commitment to innovation.
Central to Browne’s responsibilities is the coordination of diverse project components. He acts as a key connector, aligning the customer’s technical requirements with operational feedback and hands-on insights from the installation crew.
Emphasising his intermediary role, Browne shares, “We visit sites a lot and I have a lot of team meetings with our clients and also with the various consultants.”
“Often, builders focus more on the practical solution and its cost, rather than the engineering intricacies,” he continues.
Reflecting on Coates’ core values, Browne recalls an instance in which he and his team exemplified the value of ‘being our best’. He highlights that his team provided a complex solution for a client within three weeks.
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The solution called for a Super Strut spanning ~50m unsupported from plunge columns and was the largest strut of this type to be used in the Asia Pacific, underscoring Coates’ capability and reinforcing client trust.
Navigating a successful career in engineering requires strategy and dedication, as Browne can attest. He emphasises the significance of a structured journey, advising newcomers, “Don’t skip steps in your career.”
“Building a strong foundation is pivotal: first by gaining the necessary knowledge and then by refining your skills,” Browne cautions against being lured by high-paying roles without this foundational depth.
With the right approach, coupled with dedication and the essential skill set, a promising career path—even at a leading company like Coates—becomes not just a possibility but an achievable reality.
On reflection of the collaborative culture at the organisation, Browne remarks, “We learn from each other and develop together.”
For a closer look at the effective work the engineering and solutions team are carrying out at Coates, explore Coates Engineering Solutions.