From cattle to cranes

In 2013, Dave Muirhead embarked on an extraordinary adventure that took him from the picturesque landscapes of Scotland to the sandy beaches of Australia.  

Growing up on his family's farm, Dave developed an interest in engineering at a young age, ignited by learning to drive tractors and his natural inclination to fix things.  

"Being a tall kid, my dad had me driving tractors since I was 9, and soon after, I became the chief mechanic and fixer of things," Dave said. 

"It was childhood of tinkering with things and making useless contraptions (my rail track to nowhere and water wheel are two standouts) that sparked my interest in engineering which led me into a mechanical engineering degree." 

After completing his studies, Dave decided to explore the world with a backpack when he found himself in Australia. He enjoyed his time here so much he eagerly jumped at an opportunity to move here. 

Enticed by the challenge of working on Australian projects, Dave joined Monadelphous in 2013, and little did he know that it would lead to such a diverse and rewarding journey. 

"I have really loved being part of a business unit that has seen such development and growth during my time here. Notably, the diversification of the Heavy Lift Business has been a great experience to be a part of,” Dave reflected. 

"In my early FIFO days at Monos, I got to indulge my love of travel further, heading off somewhere new each RnR and leaving my stuff in a storage unit for a year!" 

Starting as a Heavy Lift Engineer on the Wheatstone Project, Dave's journey within Monadelphous evolved, and he is now a Technical Services Manager, overseeing the engineering team and Alevro operational projects.  

Dave's passion for heavy lift and haulage started while he managed projects at his very first engineering job in Scotland with Babcock International. 

"I was the first member of the 'heavy handling team,' managing modular assembly and construction of 70,000-ton aircraft carriers. That's where my passion for heavy lift and haulage took root," he shared. 

Dave's career at Monadelphous has been a journey of self-discovery, filled with challenges and opportunities for growth. He transitioned from project roles to project management, successfully navigating the challenges of the FMG Crane Services contract.  

"It was a hectic period, but it shaped me, and I found myself at the face of our development into external contracts," he recalled. 

"Being part of a business that's seen such development has been very rewarding. The diversification of the Heavy Lift Business has kept it interesting; there's rarely a dull moment." 

Things haven’t just developed on the career front; Dave is also now a proud Aussie citizen, happily married, and a pawrent to a 12-week-old Westie puppy.  

"Life's a journey, and I'm enjoying every part of it," he said. 

"Our field offers various opportunities, from technical to operational roles. It's a journey where you can grow in any direction."