Member profile

AAPA MEMBER PROFILE:

CRAIG MOSS CRAIG MOSS, DIRECTOR, PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AT THE INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC WORKS ENGINEERING AUSTRALASIA – QUEENSLAND (IPWEAQ) HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF KNOWLEDGE SHARING AND CONSISTENTLY ADVANCING INDUSTRY SKILLS.

Q. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AN AAPA MEMBER AND WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME ONE? A. I first became involved with AAPA in 2003 when I moved into the Engineering and Technology branch of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) Queensland. In my role, I was responsible for the professional development of engineering and technical staff involved in the planning, construction and maintenance of roads infrastructure. I worked closely with AAPA to provide technical training in the specialist areas related to flexible pavements. The relationships I created 17 years ago are maintained to this day.

Q. HOW DID YOU START YOUR CAREER IN THE ROAD CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY? A. I started my career in the road construction industry by accident. My first job was as an apprentice carpenter in 1985, but when the building industry suffered a major downturn, I picked up a job as a survey assistant with the then Department of Main Roads until I could pick up my apprenticeship again. After a few years, I put myself through university to become a qualified surveyor. In 2003, I moved into a learning and development role, eventually becoming responsible for the learning and development for all technical disciplines across the Department.

Q. WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT ROLE AND WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE? A. I have just celebrated my fourth year with IPWEAQ in the role of Director, Professional Services. In this role, I am responsible for: the professional development program; conferences, forums, symposia and other events; and the development and maintenance of our

As IPWEAQ Director, Professional Services Mr. Moss is responsible for the professional development program and more.

technical publications and products. The purpose of this is to enhance the quality of life for all our communities by advancing the skills, knowledge and resources available to those involved in the planning and provision of public works and services.

Q. WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENT IN THE INDUSTRY? A. I believe my biggest achievement in the road construction industry was the opportunity to positively influence the training outcomes for the traffic management sector. In my role with TMR, I was responsible for transforming the Queensland traffic control accreditation process from a half-day course into a program that required a full day theory and simulated learning, and a minimum 20 hours of in-the-workplace experience before being assessed. I was also able to collaborate with Tanja Conners at AAPA to develop the Certificate III in Civil Construction (traffic management) to provide further upskilling and a career path for those working in this sector. Q. WHAT IS A RECENT CHANGE YOU HAVE SEEN IN THE INDUSTRY AND HOW ARE YOU PREPARED FOR THAT? A. I believe one of the biggest changes we are currently experiencing is in the area of sustainability, especially in how this relates to using recycled materials in construction products. In Queensland alone, councils operate more than 500 waste facilities including landfill sites, transfer stations and resource recovery facilities. As a sector, we need to invest in a range of mutuality complementary and coordinated solutions to assist achieve a zero-waste future.

Q. HOW HAS BEING A MEMBER OF AAPA BENEFITTED YOU IN THE INDUSTRY? A. Being a member of AAPA provides an opportunity to collaborate with highly experienced technical professionals who are experts in their field. As there are many disciplines within the road construction industry, it is essential that we all work together toward a common goal. I know that if I identify a need related to flexible pavements, I can tap into a network that will most likely have the solution.

Q. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE? A. In my four years with IPWEAQ, we have been able to increase engagement across the public works sector by providing products and services that meet the needs of our members, partners and other stakeholders. We have also identified other areas that need support. It is my goal to develop new initiatives that will further support the sector and the public works community to continue to develop in maturity and numbers. I also look forward to celebrating the continuing success of individuals and organisations within the sector.