We’ve had even more staff jump onboard at Plant Assessor. Get to know a little about them!
Brian Butler – Software Engineering Manager
Background: I was born on the sun drenched, beach filled, but somewhat dull Central Coast. I have an older sister and a younger brother. My brother gets the blame for most things which go wrong in the world, so if something ever goes wrong, trust me, it was Dennis’s fault. I lived much of my career in Sydney and returned to the Central Coast a couple of years ago.
Education: I went to Erina High on the Central Coast and then studied an Advanced Diploma in Commercial Data Processing. Except for a little C++, the languages I studied I have never used commercially, instead working with VB, VB.NET and then C#.
Career: I worked for a HR company that no longer exists as a Junior Software Engineer. My main career change was moving from software engineering/solutions architect into software engineering management. Learning to delegate is the hardest thing I have ever learned.
Last job: I worked as the APAC software engineering manager for mobile automation (automated guided vehicles) for a company called Dematic. The role involved creating warehouse control and warehouse management systems and was project based and involved a bit of travel.
Outside work: I am married to my wife Vi (pronounced Vee). She is from Vietnam and we have a young daughter named Isabel. We get out and about a lot and enjoy going to the beach, eating good food, and exploring the countryside. I am generally bribable with a nice whiskey and/or a nice steak but preferably both.
Scott Bath – Professional Services Consultant
Background: I was born and raised on the Central Coast, NSW. I am the youngest of 3. I spent most of my younger years in the water either surfing or fishing. I left school at the end of year 10 to pursue and complete a trade.
Education: I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Education (Newcastle Uni), Certificate IV in Workplace Assessment and Training and trade qualifications as a fitter and turner.
Career: My working life has had a few changes over the years. I completed my apprenticeship as a fitter and turner with the Electricity Commission of NSW/Pacific Power before working in the construction industry for a few years. I had kids reasonably young so then moved into the parenting career path; I am still employed in this field!
Last job: Before joining the PA team, I was an education and training leader at a local high school on the Central Coast. I was in that leadership position for 10 years, and have now excitingly redirected my career back toward industry related employment with Plant Assessor.
Outside work: I am married with 2 kids and a dog. I enjoy fishing from a river bank, kayak or the beach but don’t seem to catch a lot (although my photo is of my first ever Murray Cod; a personal highlight). I love the game of rugby and have been heavily involved in many roles over the years. I try not to take life too seriously and definitely apply this attitude toward myself.
Saajan Maharjan – Developer
Background: I am from Nepal. I grew up in a valley (Kathmandu) surrounded by amazing mountains. My home town is full of historic temples and is rich in culture, festivals, history and tradition.
Education: I completed my Masters in Information Technology majoring in mobile and web app development from Central Queensland University in Sydney.
Career: My first job out of university was in Sydney, working as a junior full stack developer for Multibase Technologies.
Last job: I worked as a software developer, developing and supporting in house ERP and other internal applications in C# for Scenic Tours.
Outside work: I am married, and have a 7 month old baby. My favourite pastime is gaming and sleeping. On weekends, I normally go for a long walk or drive or go watch the sunrise and sunset.
Georgia Lupton – Content and Social Media Specialist
Background: I was born in Sydney and spent the first 7 years of my life there prior to moving to Rutherford with my parents and younger brother. I spent my time outside of school taking as many dance classes as possible, a passion which began from the age of 3.
Education: I went to Rutherford Technology High School before heading off to the University of Newcastle to study a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Journalism. I graduated from that degree with Distinction in 2016 before deciding to study a Diploma of Marketing and Communication online to fill in my time during the COVID lockdowns.
Career: I started working at McDonald’s as a teenager, spending close to 7 years there in multiple roles. I briefly worked at Oporto as well before scoring a job as a radio journalist at NEWFM and 2HD in Newcastle once I finished university. After spending 2 ½ years as a breakfast news presenter, waking up at 2:45am and starting my shift at 4am every day, I decided I didn’t want to wake up so early for the next 40 years of my career and moved into a marketing role instead.
Last job: My last job was as a Resource Creator and Copywriter at Teacher Professional Development where I took on lots of different roles including writing, proofreading and editing copy, managing social media, creating graphics and creating educational resources.
Outside work: I am not married but I have been with my partner, Brent for 7 years. I have heaps of hobbies, none of which I am actually good at though. I like to practice yoga, go to the beach, go on bike rides and paint. I also love surfing but I’m literally an adult grom. I also like to grow bonsai trees but have managed to kill all the bonsais I’ve owned.