From Trainee to Supervisor – Meet Lawrence Sheehan
In this edition of Meet the TRG Team, we’re introducing Lawrence Sheehan, who’s been with TRG for just over 17 months. After starting his tyre career at 16 and becoming a site supervisor by the age of 22, Lawrence has built a wealth of experience across WA sites like Tom Price, Brockman, Roy Hill, and now Eliwana. In this Q&A, he reflects on his early start in the industry, the personal challenges he’s overcome, and why he’s passionate about mentoring the next generation of fitters.
1. What inspired you to join TRG, and what excites you most about your new role?
After taking a career break, I was eager to return to the tyre industry, and TRG gave me that opportunity. Since then, it’s been a rewarding and fulfilling journey.
2. Can you share a bit about your professional background and experience in the industry?
I began my career in the industry at 16, working on light vehicles in Tom Price. At 18, I was offered an OTR tyre traineeship, which I successfully completed before moving into a relief tyre fitter role based out of Tom Price. By 22, I was supervising at Brockman and went on to build over eight years of experience in tyres. After facing personal challenges, I worked hard to turn my life around, and I’m grateful to TRG for giving me the opportunity to continue my journey in the industry.
3. What motivated you to pursue a career in OTR Tyre Management?
My dad worked for the same company for 40 years, and growing up around him and his workmates shaped my view of the industry. It felt natural for me to follow that path, and stepping into OTR seemed like the right direction for my career.
4. How do you plan to contribute to TRG’s mission and goals in your new role?
I aim to contribute in any way I can to help the company succeed. I spent about 15 months working at Roy Hill before deciding to explore a different site. I’m now based at Eliwana/Flying Fish, where I’m really enjoying the new challenges and the different aspects the site has to offer.
5. What do you hope to achieve or accomplish during your time with TRG?
My goal is to move into a leadership role in the future and continue building my career with TRG, with the hope of retiring as part of the team.
6. Can you describe a project or achievement from your previous experience that you’re particularly proud of?
After completing my traineeship, I worked as a relief fitter before stepping into a leadership role. At 22, I became the youngest site supervisor at my previous company, which is an achievement I’m very proud of.
7. What attracted you to TRG as an employer, and what sets it apart from other companies in the industry?
I came across TRG by chance while looking to return to the tyre industry. After TRG reached out to me, I researched the company and was drawn to it, particularly seeing Allan and Ethan’s names associated with the team.
8. How do you plan to collaborate with your new colleagues and team members at TRG?
I prioritise open and honest communication with my co-workers and leaders, both on-site and off-site.
9. What do you hope to learn or develop professionally while working at TRG?
I’d like to develop my skills to the point where I can train and mentor less experienced fitters.
10. Is there anything else you’d like to share with the TRG community or LinkedIn audience about yourself or your aspirations?
After overcoming life challenges and returning to the mining and tyre industry, I hope to support others facing similar challenges through mentoring and wellbeing programs.
