2020 has been an extraordinary year that no one could have predicted, and one that has left few unscathed. Here at CAST, we have embraced the challenges and created our own “new normal”. Despite the ongoing disruptions to day-to-day life, CAST has seamlessly delivered remote projects, established new relationships and continued to evolve. We are very proud of what we have achieved this year.
As the year has progressed, we’ve focussed on communication, and ensuring that we maintain a healthy work-life balance. While working remotely has always been one of our strengths, we have needed to remain agile and up-to-speed with each of our various customers preferred platforms, working techniques and health policies.
The hardest part has been the lack of face-to-face personal interaction, both with customers and internally, and we are looking forward to the relaxing of social and border restrictions so we can re-establish this important facet of our relationships.
Throughout the year, our bonds with existing partners have strengthened and we have built many new relationships across Australia, New Zealand and the UK. This year, CAST has had the privilege of working on a broad portfolio of projects across Defence, Engineering, Infrastructure, IT Consulting and Manufacturing. In line with CAST’s values, these projects have resulted in tangible changes being implemented, defensible decisions being made, and valuable insights gleaned. We are excited to see where these relationships will take us in 2021 and beyond.
In November, the Australian Institute of Project Management announced the Navy Assurance Management System project as a finalist in its Project Management Achievement Awards. CAST has been heavily involved in this project in its capacity as Project Manager, and we are honoured to be recognised for our dedication to producing quality outcomes for Australian Defence.
CAST has also made some notable personnel changes recently. We are delighted to announce the appointment of Gareth Lawson to Chief Operating Officer. Over the last two years, Gareth’s project planning and execution has produced consistent, positive outcomes for every project we have undertaken. His logical analysis and critical thinking have provided alternative views and ensured that decisions made within the Senior Leadership Team have been robust. Gareth is integral to our ongoing success, and we look forward to him continuing his excellent project coordination and leading our business operations as we head into 2021.
In late November we welcomed Jiro Ishida as a summer intern. Jiro is studying at the University of Otago and will be working on a medical manufacturing queuing and prioritisation model. Having Jiro join the CAST team is a great opportunity for us to learn from him as he undertakes his project, and we look forward to seeing his progress and supporting his development.
CAST’s success throughout 2020 has only been possible with the drive, flexibility, and positive attitudes of our customers and partners. We have been proud to work with many that both support our continued development, and who challenge us to be better every day. Thank you all for your support and trust!
From everyone at CAST, have a relaxing, safe and fun festive period, and we look forward to catching up in 2021!
Andrew Winnell
CAST CEO