If you’ve ever met Jamie, you’ll know he’s the kind of person who sees the world as one big puzzle. He’s always searching for the next idea, the smarter version, and the better way forward. It is that mindset that has shaped not only his career, but the life he’s built across two hemispheres.
Jamie grew up on a small dairy farm in Scotland, where hard work wasn’t something you learned, it was simply part of life. His childhood was filled with hiking, camping and sport – rugby, golf, soccer, and eventually AFL, which he learned to love later in life. He’s also a proud dad to a three‑year‑old son and a one‑year‑old daughter and just got married in April.
Jamie said that his love for problem‑solving has always been a constant.
“I’m wired to believe nothing is ever truly done. There’s always a new version, a next idea, or a smarter way forward waiting to be uncovered,” he said.
That philosophy has taken him across industries, across countries, and ultimately to Monadelphous.
Jamie’s career began with a master's degree in mechanical engineering and a dream job in the defence industry – a chapter he still describes as a highlight of his life. It was here that he worked across naval and land bases designing failure diagnostics systems for armoured vehicles, Type 45 destroyers, and even nuclear submarines. And yes, he did get to drive the tanks.
It was also in that job that he discovered his passion for data analytics. He began leading teams to design and build data exploitation systems, the early foundations of what would become his expertise in business intelligence. Remarkably, much of his technical skill was self‑taught, developed outside of work simply because he loved learning.
But despite the dream job, Jamie said that Australia kept calling.
“I gave up the dream job for the dream of a life in Australia,” he said.
After spending most university summers here, he finally made the move, chasing sunshine and a new challenge far from rainy Scotland.
Jamie joined Monadelphous in 2023 as a Senior Technology and Innovation Engineer within the EC Technology and Innovation team. His early focus was guiding the business through its Business Intelligence journey. Today, he’s our Technology Solutions Lead, working across emerging technologies, BI, AI, and automation.
Jamie said he encourages anyone with an idea, big or small, to reach out, as all the bright ideas start from the end users.
“Understanding the goals, challenges and aspirations of end users gives me the chance to connect the dots and identify how technology can genuinely support and elevate their initiatives,” he said.
“Most of what we work on is brand‑new territory.
“We get to be the first to explore how emerging technologies can enhance the way the business operates.”
Jamie credits much of his work ethic to his dad.
“Despite living with severe injuries, my dad worked seven days a week and never uttered a complaint,” he said.
His academic drive came from his grandfather, a professor he always wanted to impress. While his career ambition was shaped by a mentor who gave him positions beyond his capabilities, enabling him to grow into roles.
When it comes to his favourite moment at Monadelphous, there’s no question. It was winning the Footy Cup with the Monadelphinators and scoring a few goals along the way.
Looking ahead, Jamie is focused on supporting EC as the business navigates emerging technologies, particularly in the AI space. He’s also committed to growing as a leader, improving communication, deepening his understanding of how technology decisions shape the business, and learning from those around him.
“I’m passionate about making a meaningful impact in technology, growing my capability through experience and mentoring, and continually improving.”
For now though, he’s right where he wants to be – solving problems, exploring new ideas, and helping shape the future of technology at Monadelphous.