Metso Insights Blog People and culture Steve Palmer – Meet the man behind the construction of the Karratha Service Centre
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Dec 15, 2023

Steve Palmer – Meet the man behind the construction of the Karratha Service Centre

Meet Steve Palmer, one of the driving forces behind the Karratha Service Centre. In his role as a Building Supervisor, Steve orchestrates the construction and operation of the centre with a keen eye for detail and precision.
“It is rewarding to work with a project of this magnitude and scope. Every day is a chance to advance professionally and learn something new about the capabilities of the machines installed within the workshop.”
Beyond the construction aspect, it is great to work with a project that also contributes to the community by generating local employment opportunities and offering valuable training for school leavers."

Driving community development through pioneer engineering  

According to Steve, the most rewarding part of the project has been overcoming challenges during the construction of the Karratha Service Centre. Coordinating the various Metso trades with the builder has been a constant challenge, as it requires careful synchronization to prevent work area clashes and delays in the project's timeline.  

Despite the challenges that the team has been facing, the Karratha project has witnessed remarkable milestones, from the colossal raft slab, composed of 3000 cubic meters of concrete and 200 tons of steel, to the installation of 48 concrete columns weighing an average of 50 tons each. Additionally, 72 concrete tilt panels have been positioned in the main workshop, and a substantial 430 tons of structural steel now form the roof, walls and awnings. 

“Using innovative techniques and technologies has been motivating from a career building perspective. The installation of concrete columns without the need for props is an engineering feat, marking the first use of this bolt system in Western Australia. Beyond the construction aspect, it is great to work with a project that also contributes to the community by generating local employment opportunities and offering valuable training for school leavers,” Steve describes.  

As the Building Supervisor, Steve is not just overseeing the construction of a facility; he is shaping a legacy of engineering excellence in the heart of Western Australia and driving community development in the region. 

 

Karratha Service Centre
The Karratha Service Centre is Metso’s largest Service Centre globally, servicing customers in the Pilbara and greater Western Australian region.
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