Tell us about the business.
Cessnock Engineering Industries (CE) is a family-owned engineering business based in the Hunter Valley, proudly supporting the mining and heavy industrial sectors for more than five decades.
We specialise in machining, fabrication, equipment rebuilds and custom engineering solutions. From manufacturing a single replacement component to rebuilding an entire machine, we enjoy taking on the complex jobs and finding practical solutions that keep our customers operating.
How long have you been doing business?
CE was founded by Geoff and Janette Roberts in 1970. Daniel Miles and Justin Bailey became owners in 2021, but both have been part of the business long before that. Daniel started his apprenticeship here at 16, while Justin first walked through the workshop doors as a 14-year-old work experience student before joining the team as a fitter in 2014.
How many people work for the business?
We currently have 18 full-time employees across machining, fabrication, fitting and administration. Many of our team have been with us for decades, bringing a level of knowledge and experience that’s hard to replace.
Describe a typical day at ‘The office’.
There really isn’t one. We could be machining a precision shaft in the morning, rebuilding a shuttle car after lunch or fabricating a custom component that’s no longer available off the shelf. Every day brings a different challenge, and that’s exactly what we enjoy.
What are the biggest challenges facing your business?
Finding and developing skilled tradespeople is probably our biggest challenge. The work we do isn’t something you learn overnight, with many of our jobs requiring years of experience to master. That’s why we’re passionate about training apprentices and investing in the next generation of tradespeople.
What are the biggest opportunities for your business right now?
Our biggest opportunity is continuing to expand what we can do in-house. Every new capability means we can solve more problems for our customers, reduce downtime and manage more of a project from start to finish. We’re always investing in new equipment, new skills and better ways of manufacturing so customers know they can bring us the difficult jobs with confidence.
What is the business most proud of?
Our people, without question. We have team members who have been with us for decades, and that experience shows in the quality of our work. Everyone looks out for each other, takes pride in what they produce and is committed to maintaining the standards that have built our reputation over the past 50-plus years.
Community or other causes close to its heart and values?
Supporting our local community has always been important to us. We proudly support local sporting clubs, including football, soccer and the Postie GP, and regularly provide work experience opportunities for local students interested in a career in engineering or industry.
Any employees that deserve a shout out?
There are plenty of people who deserve recognition. Our leadership team works hard to maintain the values and standards the business was built on, while our experienced tradespeople play a huge role in mentoring apprentices and passing on skills to the next generation.
Every member of the team plays an important role, and that’s what makes Cessnock Engineering what it is.
