Michael Saunders’ journey from an apprentice in Southeast Queensland to the owner of Townsville business NQ Electrical is a testament to his dedication and passion for the electrical industry. Since taking the reigns over a decade ago, the business has since grown to include two offices and 12 dedicated employees.
Tell us about yourself and NQ Electrical.
I grew up in Southeast Queensland before moving to Townsville 24 years go after finishing my apprenticeship. At the time, the region was experiencing exponential growth. There were lots of key projects happening in Townsville such as The Strand renovation and the building of the Museum, which meant there was a high demand for electricians. I started working for NQ Electrical, before purchasing the business from my boss in 2009 after he retired. Since this time, I have opened a second office in Mackay, which has experienced significant growth, and the business currently employ 12 staff over the two locations.
At NQ Electrical, we provide reliable and quality electrical services to local and national customers with a particular focus on energy-saving technologies such as solar power, electrical vehicle charging stations, lighting solutions and energy monitoring systems.
In 2019, I joined the Master Electricians Australia Board, where, every quarter, we discuss the issues, challenges and future of the industry.
What has been the most challenging aspect of starting/owning NQ Electrical?
I believe Covid has been a great stimulus for the construction industry. However, it has also provided challenges due to rises in material and freight costs and an ever-inflating skill shortage. Though I am not alone in these challenges, it has been the support of industry bodies who have helped keep businesses viable through these times.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I have a passion for horse racing, and have been lucky to own several horses, each of which have won multiple races, and I even owned a Group 1 winner! This passion for horse racing runs in my family as my dad owned racehorses, and it’s something I grew up heavily surrounded by.
I’m also an avid cycler! I’ve served as President of the Townsville Cycle Club, and have sat on the AusCycling Board (previously Cycling Queensland) since 2016.
What is the best piece of career or business advice you have ever received?
“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”
I always try to remember this every day to remind myself that people are always going to talk about you regardless of what you do and say. In life, and in business, you just need to focus on yourself, what you’re doing and doing well.
Going forward, what is next on the cards for NQ Electrical?
The next step for NQ Electrical is to further expand our presence in Townsville and Mackay. Our primary focus is on achieving steady growth. With costs on the rise, I think everyone is anticipating a challenging period over the next couple of years, so our main priority is to focus on sustaining our current operations and ensuring we continue to do our jobs well and maintain our high standards of service
If you’d like to know more about NQ Electrical, please visit our website or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Main image – Michael Saunders, Owner of NQ Electrical (Townsville & Mackay).
Images Credits – All images supplied.
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