Teacher Spotlight: Mark Dries

Tell us about your journey that led you to a career in teaching your trade?

“I worked in a high paced family business as a very young apprentice for the first almost decade. I then moved on from leading hand to foreman to supervisor and finally into construction management servicing multiple commercial companies. Now I’m not only a teacher, but a program lead at TAFE. I have taught many apprentices on sites, and young tradesperson the skills to move forward. Watching their career, self-worth and mental attitude flourish is always extremely rewarding. I have always enjoyed seeing my apprentices achieve and helping them unlock their potential”.

What is your career highlight? 

“Through Construction Management, I have been able to deliver a diverse portfolio of high-value commercial infrastructure projects on time and within budget, while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and compliance. My trade experience allowed me the confidence to lead and motivate multidisciplinary teams, strong collaboration between clients, architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure seamless project delivery”. 

“Building on to my trade expertise in cost control, risk management, and innovative construction practices has resulted in significant efficiency gains and cost savings across multiple sites. Committed to continuous improvement, I have implemented sustainable building solutions, enhanced workplace safety initiatives, and driven process innovations that improved productivity and client satisfaction, contributing to long-term business growth and repeat project opportunities”.

“The Highlight now is, can I successfully pass that knowledge and help guide my students to find passion in what they do. Show, lead and explain to them the doorway for their growth and potential success”.

How has the industry evolved during your time and what trends are you seeing?

“Technology and software have modernised all the trades. Imagination is now a reality”.

Why did you choose to become a teacher?

“To mentor and inspire young apprentices, helping them build confidence, skills, and work ethic. I wanted to use my skills to influence and help shape their careers and contribute to strengthening the construction industry as whole rather than focusing on a simple task”.

“By bringing my years of real-world experience that apprentices can’t find in textbook, I am able to pass on my practical insights, problem-solving skills, and understanding of workplace expectations to give my students a strong industry-relevant foundation”.

What advice would you give to those looking into whether a trade is right for them?

“Why slave at a desk or screen? A trade is a learning curve that will build a passion. Working in a space that you enjoy will make all the hard days disappear. Get up and give it a go! We were all ourselves once nervous and some-what lost when starting out. A trade will give you confidence, success and purpose. You will jump out of bed every morning, all while lining your pockets with $$$”.