Gary Fleming

Experience, Growth and Making a Difference at Tomago Aluminium

For Gary Fleming, a long career at Tomago Aluminium is not simply about years of service. It is about growth, contribution, and leaving a positive mark on the people and teams around him.

Gary joined TAC more than 30 years ago, at a time when the business had just expanded during an economic recession. That decision to invest stood out. “If a company was willing to invest millions of dollars into the business during a recession, then TAC is a forward-thinking business that I want to be involved with,” he recalls.

His first role was as a Bake Ovens Operator Refractory, but that was only the beginning.

Over three decades, Gary has worked across almost every department at TAC. Roughly every four to five years, a new opportunity has come his way, and he has embraced it. From playing a lead role in the complex replacement of the ring main on Bake Ovens 1 to contributing to major demolition and rebuild projects, his career has continually evolved. “It’s been like starting a new job every few years,” he says. “TAC has supported me along my journey, and I’ve had the pleasure of working with some great people over that time.”

Today, as Contractor Management Advisor and a proud member of the DEI Committee, Gary brings deep operational knowledge, practical judgement, and a strong commitment to safety and culture.

Throughout different stages of his life and career, Gary says the business has consistently supported him. “TAC has always supported me with any training that I needed to take on a new role or in an existing role and provided levels of flexibility,” he explains.

In his mid-50s, he was encouraged by his manager to complete a Diploma in Leadership and Business. “You are never too old to learn,” he says. That mindset reflects TAC’s belief that development and opportunity are not limited by age or tenure.

From Gary’s perspective, age and experience are valued strengths at Tomago. “My growth has been valued by having more responsibility and trust, along with better flexibility and understanding,” he says. He has also seen collaboration between generations strengthen over time. Younger employees bring digital fluency and fresh problem-solving approaches, while more experienced team members contribute industry knowledge and practical insight. “Different generations working together makes us stronger,” he notes.

Safety has been central to Gary’s career. “Safety isn’t just a tick box,” he says. “It has been embedded in our culture for many years and consistently prioritises safe systems of work to ensure you go home safely every day.” His advice to younger employees is clear. “Make safety your number one priority.”

Inclusion and belonging are equally important to him. “Feeling respected and included means people asking for your ideas or opinion and treating you as a valued contributor whose voice matters,” he says. He believes culture is shaped by strong leadership and genuine listening. “It’s when you have leaders who genuinely want to listen, not just listen for the sake of listening. We create spaces for people to speak up through team meetings and listening lunches.”

Gary joined the DEI Committee because he wanted to help make a meaningful difference. “I’ve spent so much of my time here, and I’ve seen how diverse perspectives strengthen teams and make people feel included,” he says. “I wanted to take another opportunity to contribute to our culture.”

For Gary, sustaining a long career at Tomago has also been about flexibility and wellbeing. “The flexibility TAC has provided through leave support and understanding personal circumstances is important to prevent burnout and keep people engaged,” he explains. He believes recognising long-serving employees and the diversity of experience they bring is essential. “It honours commitment and loyalty. It shows the organisation values people and doesn’t take them for granted. It also reinforces a sense of belonging.”

Looking back, Gary defines a successful career as one where he has grown, contributed, and helped others succeed. “I get a real kick out of helping others grow and succeed,” he says. His advice to new starters reflects the mindset that has sustained him for more than three decades. “A long career doesn’t happen by accident. It’s about taking opportunities when they come along, building relationships, and bringing the right attitude every day. Be curious, ask questions, and be open to learning at every opportunity, no matter your age.”

Gary’s story demonstrates that at TAC, experience is valued, growth is continuous, and inclusion is strengthened when every voice is heard and every contribution matters.