Last month, we were proud to celebrate two major milestones Amber McEwin and Joshua Walker have each reached 10 years with Elastomers Australia. Both have grown tremendously with the business over the past decade, contributing to its success while carving out their own unique journeys.

Amber’s Journey

Amber joined EA in 2015 while finishing her Bachelor of Business (Accounting). Unsure of her career direction, she connected with EA’s GM of Operations, Paul Lane, through her local football club. Paul offered her the opportunity to gain work experience with the Commercial Team one day a week, complementing her studies and opening the door to a career she has truly made her own.

Over the years, Amber has progressed from Commercial Administration Assistant to Commercial Assistant, then to Commercial Coordinator, and today she is thriving as a Commercial Relationship Manager.

Looking back, Amber says there have been many highlights, but a few stand out. Watching the business grow from around 150 employees to over 400 has been incredibly rewarding. She has also led tender submissions that helped EA secure and maintain major contracts with Rio Tinto, BHP, and Glencore. But perhaps the most memorable moment was representing EA at the 2022 Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Awards, where the company was recognised as Leader of Inclusion and Diversity.

Amber credits EA’s culture as one of the main reasons she has stayed and thrived:

“I love the ‘one team’ approach. No matter what the challenge is – whether it’s market influences, customer relationships, or internal improvements – the culture at EA drives a solution-based approach where everyone works together.”

She also values the lessons she’s learned along the way. One she carries with her is: “The standard you walk past is the standard you accept.” For Amber, this reflects EA’s courage core value and the importance of challenging processes or behaviours that could be improved.

When asked about advice for new starters, Amber encourages curiosity:

“Take the time to observe, ask questions, and understand why EA does something a certain way before suggesting changes. Our processes might look unusual at first, but flexibility is essential to meeting our customers’ needs.”

Outside of work, Amber is passionate about AFL and is a dedicated Richmond Tigers supporter. She enjoys live music, spending time with family and friends, and sharing her love of cooking and baking often bringing treats into the office for the team to enjoy.

Looking ahead, Amber is excited about the future: “If the last 10 years are anything to go by, the next 10 will bring sustainable growth, stronger customer partnerships, and potentially outgrowing our Campbellfield head office. It’s daunting, but also exciting.”

Josh’s Journey

Josh joined EA with a clear goal: to take charge of projects and be part of the mining industry. Ten years on, he’s done just that and more.

One of Josh’s proudest moments was the design, build, and installation of 25 brand-new Wedgewire tools and stands for Mackay. Built entirely in-house from scratch, the project showcased both the engineering team’s creativity and EA’s ability to deliver complex solutions. He also enjoys visiting sites across Australia, seeing firsthand how different mines operate and use EA’s screens.

Over the past decade, Josh has seen huge changes in the business. The engineering team has tripled in size, introducing more structure, processes, and improvements to project delivery. Yet despite the growth, Josh says the friendly, collaborative culture has remained unchanged:

“Processes and documentation have improved significantly as the business grew, but the atmosphere is still the same. It still feels like a family business where everyone is willing to pitch in. It’s never ‘not my job’.”

When asked what advice he would give to new starters, Josh’s message is simple: “Be involved, ask questions, and have a go! You never stop learning here.”

Josh also values the way EA supports its people: “The business truly cares about its people and will bend over backwards to accommodate staff who are willing to do the same.”

Outside of work, Josh enjoys time with his wife and kids, working on car parts in his shed, and riding dirt bikes.

Looking ahead, Josh sees greater efficiency and automation on the horizon: “In the next 5–10 years, I think EA will continue to streamline processes and increase automation to do more with less.”

A Decade of Dedication

Amber and Josh’s stories highlight what makes Elastomers Australia unique – a culture built on teamwork, courage, and care, combined with opportunities for personal growth and meaningful contributions.

We thank Amber and Josh for their passion, commitment, and dedication over the past 10 years. Congratulations on this incredible milestone – here’s to the next decade of success!