Bruce Parker was inducted into the manufacturing hall of fame.30977
By Melissa Meehan
COMMUNITY-MINDED Bruce Parker has been admitted to the Manufacturing Hall of Fame.
Mr Parker began his automotive career as an apprentice motor mechanic with Preston Motors in 1960.
In 1969 he launched Headmod, which grew so quickly it had to move to a purpose-built factory in South Dandenong in 1989. A merger with Gem Engines in 1998 provided further scope for growth and set the company in a new direction.
Today, the Headmod Group comprises HM Gem Engines and Nason Engine Parts with combined sales of more than $30 million.
HM Gem Engines is recognised as a world leader in the automotive/industrial engines and cylinder heads industry, servicing the automotive and transport industry through a network of 20 warehouses and service outlets throughout Australia.
Under Mr Parker’s direction, the company has continued to expand through sound business practices, market growth and strategic acquisitions.
Increasing employment opportunities for Victorians has also been a primary driver for Mr Parker and that has seen a sustained growth in employee numbers over the years.
A commitment to developing employment opportunities for people with disabilities has led to 15 per cent of his company’s production workforce comprising people with some form of disability.
Mr Parker said he was committed to promoting manufacturing as a career choice for young people.
About being inducted into the Hall of Fame, Mr Parker said: “It is delightful.”
Mr Parker’s work in the education of workers in the industry may have also been an important factor of him being inducted.
“I’ve developed a lot of the curriculum for the industry for apprentice training,” he said. “It might have something to do with that.”
This commitment has seen him work with South East Business Networks, South East Melbourne Manufacturing Alliance (SEMMA), Rotary International, Greater Dandenong Hand Brake Turn Advisory Panel and the Victoria Police (VicPol initiative).
