As Programmed celebrates 75 years of supporting Australian industries, communities and workforces, we are also proud to recognise an extraordinary personal milestone.
This year marks 40 years of service for Mark McGoldrick, known to many as ‘Rocky’, at our Programmed Energy and Resources Muswellbrook workshop.
Rocky’s career has spanned more than half of Programmed’s 75-year history. It is a remarkable achievement that reflects not only his dedication to his trade, but also the values that have shaped our business for generations: hard work, reliability, adaptability and pride in a job well done.
From apprentice to 40-year career
Rocky’s journey began in 1981 when he commenced his apprenticeship with Muswellbrook Engineering. Those early years laid the foundation for a career defined by hands-on expertise, determination and a strong work ethic. He completed his apprenticeship in March 1985, closing the first chapter of what would become a long and distinguished career.
After a brief period away, Rocky returned to Muswellbrook Engineering in April 1986. That decision marked the beginning of four decades of continuous service and contribution.
Over the next 40 years, Rocky remained with the same business as it evolved through a series of ownership changes, acquisitions and rebrands. From Muswellbrook Engineering to Cordukes, Thomas & Coffey and now Programmed, he has been a constant presence through every stage of that journey.
While company names, systems and industries changed, Rocky’s commitment never wavered. His professionalism, craftsmanship and willingness to share his knowledge have earned the respect of colleagues across generations.
He has helped shape the workshop culture that exists today and has set a standard for those who have followed in his footsteps.
Skills and experience that keep operations moving
Rocky’s story is also a reflection of the depth of experience within Programmed Energy and Resources, where our teams provide tailored staffing, production and maintenance solutions across the energy and resources sector.
From experienced tradespeople and operators through to technical professionals, our people bring the practical skills and industry knowledge needed to support customers across their operations.
At the heart of this is our production and maintenance capability, supporting mining and industrial sites with maintenance solutions designed to help keep critical plant, equipment and operations running.
Our workshop and specialist capabilities also support customers through services including fabrication, machining, repairs, equipment servicing and project work — areas where practical trade expertise and decades of experience continue to make a difference.
Rocky’s four decades on the workshop floor are a great example of the knowledge and craftsmanship that underpin this capability.
Building capability for the future
In many ways, Rocky’s story reflects Programmed’s own. Both have evolved over decades, adapted to change and continued to build strong foundations for the future.
His career is also a reminder of the importance of developing and sharing skills across generations.
From apprenticeships and traineeships through to experienced trades and technical careers, Programmed’s career and training pathways help build the skills and experience needed for the future workforce.
Rocky’s willingness to share his knowledge with colleagues and the next generation of tradespeople is an important part of that legacy.
75 years of Programmed — and the people behind it
As we celebrate 75 years of Programmed, it is people like Rocky who bring that history to life.
Their knowledge, dedication and contribution have helped build the business we are today and continue to strengthen it for the future.
Reaching 40 years of service is an exceptional achievement. On behalf of everyone at Programmed, we thank Rocky for his outstanding contribution and congratulate him on this significant milestone.
His legacy extends far beyond the workshop floor. It lives on in the skills he has shared, the people he has mentored and the standards he has upheld throughout his career.
Congratulations, Rocky, on an incredible 40 years.
As Programmed marks 75 years of history, we are proud to celebrate the people whose commitment and expertise have been such an important part of that journey.
