We’re back with our TouchBase with TeamBSE series and today we speak to Wade Prendergast, Associate Director - Hydraulic & Fire Services NSW.
Wade stands as an indispensable pillar of our NSW team, contributing over a decade of innovative project delivery with BSE, having celebrated his 10th year with us in 2022. His leadership within the Hydraulic and Fire Services team is exceptional, seamlessly blending innovative thinking with hands-on expertise to craft solutions that not only meet immediate needs but also pave the way for future-ready designs.
With an extensive background spanning diverse development sectors, Wade consistently ensures that every project he oversees, whether in buildings, infrastructure or fit-out, exceeds both client expectations and user needs. His dedication to delivering scopes that are not only functional but also innovative continues to play a significant role in our ongoing success.
What is your background story?
Growing up near the beach instilled in me a love for the outdoors and an affinity for practical, hands-on activities, which naturally led me to pursue a career in the construction industry as a plumber. In this role, I developed skills in installing hydraulic and fire services across various sectors. Eager to expand my technical knowledge based on this experience, I took the opportunity to join an engineering firm, where I was able to dive deeper into the intricacies of hydraulic and fire services design as part of new buildings. Completing a hydraulic services diploma, I took each chance to grow and learn. I am really grateful for the guidance and mentorship provided by senior engineers along the way, which enabled me to transition seamlessly from plumbing to consultancy. Now, as part of BSE’s team, I am able to prioritise time with each of our team members, ensuring collaboration and delivering quality designs that only come from being fully engaged in each project, from inception to completion.
Did you choose engineering, or did it choose you?
Engineering certainly chose me, a case of being in the right place at the right time. The opportunity to transition from plumbing into design came when the plumbing company I was with had a project delayed, so I had scope to consider designs in more detail than before and see how they could be done better.
Even though I became a plumber first, I had considered engineering to start with after school, decided I wanted something practical. So, it was a very circular process, I guess. Hydraulic design is straightforward when it’s based on a foundation of on-site plumbing and install experience.
How do you feel services engineers add value to projects?
We bridge the gap between building design and operational functionality, serving as the crucial link that ensures seamless integration. Operating within a multidisciplinary company, BSE can leverage the advancements in REVIT technology to achieve a higher level of precision and coordination in service design. This meticulous approach minimises site queries and issues, ultimately leading to more cost-effective solutions.
Consider living or working without usable hydraulic services – drinking water, flushing toilets, hot water – and you quickly appreciate the value we add.
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
Not so much what but who — my son! While I do miss the sleep-ins, seeing and spending time with my family is what I look forward to the most.
Work-wise, it’s the people I work with — being able to support the team and be involved in design solutions. Every day there is a new challenge, and there is always something to learn.
