Zak Gauci’s love for machines goes back as far as he can remember. As a kid, he was the one staring wide-eyed at massive diggers or trucks, dreaming about the day he’d get to tinker with them himself.
Fast forward to today, and that childhood dream is now his everyday reality.
Now in his second year as an Apprentice Mobile Plant Mechanic at Construction Equipment Australia (CEA), Zak spends his days elbow-deep in some of the biggest and most complex machines in the industry – think Dynapac, JCB, SANY, Ditch Witch, Atlas Copco, and more.
“A typical day for me is working hard, always having something to do, and having fun,” he says.
Life as a Mobile Plant Mechanic Apprentice
No two days are ever the same. Some mornings, Zak’s in the workshop, sleeves rolled up, diagnosing faults or getting his hands dirty with repairs. Other times, he’s out on worksites across New South Wales, solving problems on the spot where the action is.
That variety is one of the things Zak loves most about the job.
“I enjoy coming to work every day,” Zak says. “It’s such a good environment, and I love working on all the different machines we have here.”
Working in the plant industry means getting up close with the equipment that keeps Australia’s construction and infrastructure moving. For apprentices like Zak, every day is an opportunity to learn, build real-world skills, and get familiar with machines that power projects all over the country.
Learning from the People Around You
Ask Zak what keeps him motivated, and he doesn’t hesitate.
“It’s the people around me,” he says without missing a beat. “The tradies, the supervisors, the bosses—everyone’s encouraging and always pushing me to get better and keep learning.”
That support is huge. Apprentices like Zak work shoulder-to-shoulder with experienced tradies who show them the ropes and help them build both skills and confidence.
For Zak, the team environment is one of the best parts of the job.
“Everyone is always encouraging you, no matter what,” he says. “It’s just a lovely environment. I come to work every day with a smile on my face.”
Finding the Right Path
Zak didn’t take the traditional route in. He left school after Year 9 and jumped straight into learning on the job, picking up skills in the plant industry from day one.
For him, it turned out to be the right decision.
“I’ve learned so much since then,” he says. “I’ve experienced things that a lot of other people haven’t.”
Apprenticeships offer a different pathway for people who enjoy practical work, solving problems, and learning on the job. Instead of sitting in a classroom all day, apprentices develop real skills in the workplace alongside experienced professionals.
Why Zak Says It’s Worth It
For Zak, that childhood obsession with machines has become a career where he’s always learning, picking up new skills, and helping keep major projects on track.
As he moves through his apprenticeship at CEA, Zak’s getting hands-on experience, learning from the best, and building the foundation for a strong future in the industry.
Thinking about taking a similar path? Zak’s advice is short and sweet.
“Do it. It’s the best decision I’ve made.”
Interested in starting a career with CEA? Discover opportunities and learn more about apprenticeships with CEA here.
