‘I’M PLEASED TO BE ABLE TO USE SKILLSL–R: Susie Martin, Shane Metcalfe (carpenter), FROM MY PREVIOUS CAREER TO ACHIEVEJoe Slattery (apprentice) and Aaron Martin. A SIMILAR OUTCOME – MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN PEOPLE’S LIVES’ Susie also uses marketing as a means of differentiating the business from its competitors. ‘We seek to create a community who can follow what we are doing, including on social media. In running a business you can get bogged down in the day-to-day grind of paperwork so this creates a buzz and keeps us sharp and creative.’ ‘To have our work validated by the extension on a home nestled in a vineyard at nearby industry like this blew us away’ Langhorne Creek. And they also build at least one ‘spec’ home each year as a showcase for their She and Aaron are keen users of HIA member design and construction and to test new suppliers, services including legal advice and web-based products and sub-contractors. seminars. And her HIA national award, as Business Aaron Martin Construction employs three full-time Partner of the Year, came both as a surprise and carpenters as well as a team of 25 subcontracted a delight. tradesmen. Susie plays an important coordinating ‘To have our work validated by the industry like role in staff relations. this blew us away,’ she says. ‘We strive to make our staff feel valued,’ she ‘Building and renovation are a huge financial says. ‘We supply uniforms, a work vehicle, provide investment for clients but also a very emotional rostered days off and professional development experience. I’m pleased to be able to use skills from as well as display information and a photo of my previous career to achieve a similar outcome – each of our staff on the website. We also employ making a difference in people’s lives.’ one apprentice and aim to continue to offer apprenticeships in the future.’ www.aaronmartinconstruction.com.au NOVEMBER 2018 HOUSING 15 PEOPLE • SUSIE MARTIN