THE NEW KID ON THE STREETBUILD BLOCK –
NSW State Manager, Carlos Pintos
Carlos Pintos is the new kid on the Streetbuild block, joining us earlier this year in June 2021 as our NSW State Manager. With experience spanning carpentry, fit-out, high-rise construction, project and construction management, he sure has all the tools to take on the role, but we thought we’d find out a little more about the 30-year path that led him here.
What drew you to begin your career in the construction industry?
As a child I always enjoyed watching my father tinker in the garage fixing things and making objects out of junk. I would often mimic him with the small tool set he gave me. All those years watching and learning from him eventually evolved into a real passion for carpentry.
My father was a Turner and Fitter and worked with his hand throughout his life. When I told him that I wanted to pursue a career in carpentry he looked me in the eye and said: “Don’t make your hobby into your job. It is a hard life working with your hands,” and showed me his weathered hands. He instead encouraged me to get a white-collar job. Though I respected my father immensely, I knew in my heart the path I wanted to take.
The passion that I had built over the years meant that I learned quickly and applied myself to every aspect of the industry, absorbing information and paying close attention to the lessons and mistakes of others. Eventually I did get off the tools to wear the white collar my father hoped I would, and instead I’ve rekindled the enjoyment for tinkering in the garage just as he did. Though I took the long road it was worth it. The words of my late father however still ring in my ears.
What led you to joining the Streetbuild team?
I started as a carpenter for Concrete Constructions, working on high-rise construction for many years. Later I moved into the fit-out division where I began to manage some small projects. This experience helped to build the foundations of my career as I learnt to understand the administrative side of the business. I was then fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work in the Philippines on a high-rise in Manila which was an amazing experience. When I returned, I took on a role as a Foreman for a high-rise hotel and luxury apartment project.
In 2004, Concrete Constructions dissolved, and I joined Built. I started off as a fit-out Foreman but as the business grew, I moved into a Project Manager role which saw me relocated to Perth to help expand and establish the business there. Four years later I returned to Sydney and eventually progressed to the role of Construction Manager which I held for the last 5 years. After 17 years with Built I felt that it was time for a new challenge and joined Streetbuild where the third chapter is now being written.
What kind of projects excite you?
The projects that no one else wants because they are complex or difficult. I’m a natural problem solver and I am driven by a challenge. I find a lot of satisfaction in solving a construction puzzle and ultimately achieving a great result for the client.
What have you enjoyed most about your role so far?
My experience has meant that I bring with me a different perspective and outlook. I’ve enjoyed imparting this knowledge and experience on the team to help initiate growth during this challenging time – not only to help us adapt to the current changes but also place us on the right trajectory for the future. Change can be difficult, but it’s also an essential part of life and business and again, another challenge I’m excited to face.
How have you felt adapting to working from home over the last few weeks?
The COVID pandemic has turned the conventional office setup on its head and shown us that we can be resilient and adapt quickly to new working environments. I’ve been pleasantly surprised at just how effective and efficient the team has been at working from home – we are truly thriving!
We are pleased to have Carlos join the team and look forward to seeing him continue to thrive!
To discuss your next project with Carlos, please contact carlos.pintos@streetbuild.com
