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Some people leave high school without a clear idea of what they want to do in life, while others have their plans almost carved in stone. For Tradesales fabricator Nick Sheridan, it was closer to the latter.
“I took woodworking and metalworking in high school, and while I enjoyed both, I knew very early on that metal fabrication was for me. I love being able to create something with a purpose from a flat sheet of steel,” said Nick.
Following his passion, Nick secured an apprenticeship straight out of high school, where he honed his skills and mastered his craft.
Although he loved bending, cutting, and welding metal, he briefly stepped away from the industry soon after earning his qualification.
“I moved to Northam from Spearwood to help my dad with his transportation business. He ran his own company and subcontracted to bigger ones like Toll. It was great working with him, but it wasn’t what I had in mind for my career,” said Nick.
While transportation wasn’t his long-term calling, he stayed in the Northam area and found a role at West Tarp, a tarpaulin manufacturing company based in the Wheatbelt town.
Nick quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a team leader. However, working with fabric wasn’t where his heart was, and he longed to return to metal fabrication—leading him to Tradesales.
“It’s great working at Tradesales. We have such a wide range of jobs on the go at any one time. This diversity of products means that every day is different,” said Nick.
Though he leads by example, Nick has no plans to step into a management or team leader role again.
“I enjoy working on the floor where all the action is. Maybe one day—10 or 15 years from now—I’ll look at setting up my own little mobile welding business, but for now, I’m happy where I am. The team here is great, and management looks after us all,” said Nick.
Clearly, his team members feel the same way about him as he does about them. This was evident when he received the Values Recognition Award in December for the value of enthusiasm.
“Nick is constantly providing his best efforts and holds himself to a high standard, which is reflected in the quality of his workmanship and approach to work. He’s always happy and willing to go the extra mile, whatever the task, with a willingness and attitude that is contagious,” said Workshop Supervisor Jared Durrington.
Nick enjoys spending time with his family outside of work, including his partner and two daughters, aged three and seven.
He’s also the go-to guy for his mates, always ready to help with odd jobs around their properties.
