30/01/2026
๐ Celebrating Steve Coadโs Retirement ๐
After more than 50 years in the electrical, engineering, and building services industry, Steve Coad will officially retire on 30 January 2026 โ marking the close of an extraordinary career and an incredible chapter at VAE Group.
Steve began his journey in December 1974 as an Indentured Apprentice Electrical Fitter/Mechanic with the NSW Maritime Services Board, going on to complete a four-year Electrical Engineering Certificate and rising to the role of Foreman Inspector. From there, his career spanned some of Australiaโs most significant organisations and projects โ including working with the Navy and NSW Police on the 1988 Bicentennial celebrations at Darling Harbour.
Across decades with OTC, Telstra, and many of Australiaโs leading HVAC and services companies, Steve built a reputation as a true all-rounder โ from project management and system design to fire safety, CCTV, HVAC optimisation, BMS integration, and energy efficiency initiatives. He played a key role in major infrastructure upgrades, emerging technologies, and industry standards, including serving on the AS-1851-2005 Sub-Committee.
Throughout his career, Steve has held leadership roles including Service Operations Manager, Business Development Manager, and Business Unit Manager, bringing not only deep technical expertise, but also mentorship, integrity, and a calm, solutions-focused approach to every challenge.
Steveโs knowledge, dedication, and professionalism have made a lasting impact on colleagues, clients, and the industry as a whole. While he will be greatly missed, his legacy will continue to be felt across VAE Group and beyond.
๐ Thank you, Steve, for an outstanding career. We wish you all the very best in your well-earned retirement. ๐
