Our Team

After graduating with BE. Mech in 1996 Mike spent the first 10 years of his working career at KRUPP, Vickers Systems and Brevini.  This gave Mike a solid grounding in the equipment and machines used in  mining, mineral processing and bulk materials handling as well as the on board sub-systems and power transmission requirements of such machines.  Having been around hydraulics most of his life and possessing an innate desire to make things it was a natural progression to specialise in hydraulic and lubrication system design and manufacture. Mike fosters a work culture that encourages young people who enjoy creating to push themselves and be the best they can be.  “Once aptitude is demonstrated the only limits imposed will be the ones you place on yourself.”

Travis is a mechanical engineer with over 14 years of experience in mining industry including considerable experience in hydraulics/lubrication, commissioning and balanced machines. He is responsible for delivering all our major projects, co-ordinating engineering and manufacturing functions and ensuring a successful outcome for our customers.

Erhan Akar commenced with Hooker in 2016 after completing a Mechanical Engineering degree in 2014. Since then Erhan has attained a Masters of Business Administration and become an invaluable part of the company. Erhan is skilled in both Pro Engineer and Autocad and applies his experience and professionalism to ensure the best result for our clients. As with all our senior staff Erhan provides ongoing mentorship to our junior staff and apprentices.

Bill has over 40 years of electrical and instrumentation experience across mining and petrochemical industries. His company Project Instrumentation has been working with Hooker for over 15 years and has been instrumental in the sustainable growth experienced by our company.

Angie has been part of the Hooker team for over 15 years overseeing accounting, compliance and administrative functions.

Michael started his career in the marine industry building high speed ferries. After a period working in the mining and construction industries he returned to marine industry building luxury yachts. Michael has now been with Hooker for over 8 years initially in a workshop co-ordination role but now focused on co-ordinating site service work. He has a wealth of experience on lubrication and hydraulic systems especially with hydraulic luffing systems on balanced machines.

Workshop Coordinator Dean Jones began his apprenticeship with Hooker in 2012. Over his years with the company Dean has gained extensive skills and experience in all aspects of hydraulic and lubrication systems from inception to site implementation. Dean has quickly risen to the role of workshop coordinator due to his exacting nature and ability to mentor younger tradespeople.

Dave has over over 20 years experience in fabrication and engineering. He completed his formal engineering trade qualification in the marine industry building luxury yachts where attention to detail was paramount. Since then he has also worked in the mining and defense industries and has now been a valuable member of the Hooker team for over 3 years.

Stephen is a highly skilled welder and pipefitter with a background in completing MIG, TIG and MMA welding and fabrication work for a wide range of industries across power, water, gas and chemical industries. Originally from the United Kingdom Stephen brings to Hooker extensive experience and excellent knowledge of welding techniques and pipework to continually exceed expectations.

Dennis has over 25 years experience working in construction, mechanical and engineering fields. Dennis began working with Hooker in 2016 and has been working principally doing site maintenance works.

Tim Lee started his employment with Hooker in 2019 as a Workplace Learning student whilst completing his grade 12 education. Tim is now nearly half way through his apprenticeship and is gaining invaluable experience under our training programme

Wiremu Williams began his fabrication trade with Hooker in 2017 and has gained skills under the mentorship of our experienced trade personnel

Levi McLeod started his employment with Hooker in 2019. Levi is almost finished his electrical apprenticeship and has significantly broadened his electrical and instrumentation experience since joining the team.