Crafting the Future: Glenn’s Journey from Woodwork to Industry Visionary
In the heart of Australia’s dynamic cabinet making scene, Glenn, a seasoned veteran with hands roughened by years of craftsmanship, is reshaping the landscape through innovation and an unyielding passion for quality hardware. His journey in the industry has been one of resilience, adaptability, and vision, all of which began with the humble woodwork classes of his school days. “I always had an interest even back at school,” Glenn recalls, reflecting on the origin of his lifelong passion.
Glenn’s career began at 14, when he left school to dive right into the trade at a furniture company in West Ipswich, Queensland. The year he joined marked the beginning of a rough period — the devastating floods of 1974, which tore through Ipswich and Brisbane shortly after the cyclone hit. It was an early lesson in perseverance for the young apprentice.
He developed a strong foundation in detailed craftsmanship during his subsequent 11-year tenure with the railways, constructing wooden carriages with precision and care. Yet, despite the foundational skills he acquired, the repetitive nature of the work left him yearning for a change.
Emerging from the railways, Glenn found renewed purpose in the evolving field of cabinet making. “There was a big change in 11 years”, he notes. The industry was rapidly changing, transitioning from basic hinges to sophisticated 35-millimeter cup hinges, and Glenn was at the forefront of this shift. His ability to learn and adapt was tested, as was his resolve to continue growing within the industry.
“In my Cabinet Making trade, the Queen Anne Bedside Cabinet will bring back many memories for many my age or older in Qld. It still has its place in my home and is 49 years old.”
“Carriage Builders Tool Box was my first task after joining the Qld Railway Workshops at North Ipswich. No shortcuts with this tool box as was all Dove Tailed Joints. It is still in my workshop and will be for many years to come. 47 Year old.”
His penchant for innovation and his entrepreneurial spirit propelled him into a pioneering role when he introduced a new hardware brand, Harn, into the Australian market in the late ’90s. The reception was gradual, but Harn started gaining traction and brand recognition among cabinet makers nationwide.
As CEO of a prominent suppliers’ company, he not only steered the business to greater heights but also played an instrumental role in developing partnerships and collaborations that ultimately shaped the landscape of the industry. The collective he helped create, the Independent Hardware Group, gave smaller businesses a fighting chance against larger competitors through their combined buying power.
However, the industry’s camaraderie has waned over time, with businesses becoming more isolated in their operations. Yet, Prodeco, Glenn’s current venture, which he founded in the throes of market shifts, stands as a beacon of collaboration, partnering with distributors across Australian regions and even extending to New Zealand.
Reflecting upon his era of building carriages, Glenn credits the hands-on experience and problem-solving skills he gained as key to his enduring success. He cites a resolve to see projects through from inception to completion as a cornerstone of his business methodology, regardless of the technological advancements that have transformed the industry.
What truly distinguishes Glenn, however, is his deep comprehension of the hardware itself, coupled with his ability to bridge the gap between the creators and users of these products. His hands-on involvement in design and his advocacy for quality ensured that feedback from the field led to tangible improvements in the products he represented. “It’s not just a matter of I like sales, but I like to know that we’re selling a good quality product,” Glenn emphasises.
The journey to modern times has not come without its challenges. Convincing manufacturers to heed the needs of their consumers was a significant hurdle, but Glenn’s determination and global outreach to like-minded distributors eventually broke through the resistance, cementing Prodeco and Harn’s place in the market even amidst the tumult of global supply chain issues during the pandemic.
As a stalwart advocate for the right technological tools, Glenn views recent advancements in software as a pivotal turning point for the industry. Yet, he maintains that the blend of artful craftsmanship and savvy use of technology will define the future of cabinet making.
For those entering the fray, Glenn’s advice is pragmatic: start small, grow at your own pace, and never underestimate the importance of cash flow. Embracing innovation while anchoring oneself in practicality has been the hallmark of his storied career.
When asked about the qualities of an industry legend, Glenn posits that longevity and the ability to create a lasting name are at the core. Indeed, just as companies like Prodeco carry forward the legacies of the trade, Glenn’s story is a testament to the tenacity and ingenuity required to become a true titan of the industry.
With eyes set on the future, Prodeco is now focused on the launch of a new revolutionary drawer system, a testament to Glenn’s enduring commitment to both evolution and excellence. It’s clear that this industry legend’s journey is far from over, and countless cabinet makers will continue to draw inspiration from his dedication to craftsmanship, his pioneering spirit, and his indelible mark on the Australian cabinet making landscape.
Alunan T image from last year’s Design Show in Melbourne.
