Head-and-shoulders portrait of a man in a navy blue Master Builders SA polo shirt with a pen in the chest pocket. May require shorter version for accessibility depending on context, e.g., "Portrait of a man in a branded blue work shirt."

Matt Thomas

Born to Build — Program Manager

Born to Build is a great place to start to build a career in construction. I’m grateful to get the opportunity to inspire the next generation of South Australian tradies into rewarding careers.

30+

Years across industries

15

Years in community engagement

100s

Apprentices supported

“Becoming a tradie isn’t just about learning technical skills – it’s about being part of an industry that shapes the future of our state.“

— Matt Thomas

His Story

A career built from the ground up

With decades of experience in the construction industry, I have navigated both the highs and lows of the field, and feel an obligation to help the industry the best way I can, at the grassroots.

My career began as a carpentry and joinery apprentice, developing expertise in residential renovations and extensions in the south-eastern suburbs and hills. Over time, I advanced to roles as a Tradesman, Team Leader, and Project Manager.

I broadened my skill set further in the commercial and industrial sectors, contributing to large-scale projects such as the Mile End and Gepps Cross Homemaker Centres, hospital redevelopments, and a private high-rise retirement village in Ashford, among others.

Following a brief period away from construction due to a sporting injury, I transitioned into Business Development for a bespoke business coaching firm. During this time, I honed my ability to assist businesses in various industries, identifying areas for improvement and applying tailored strategies to drive growth and success.

As the owner of a high-end residential building company for 10 years I successfully led projects from concept to completion, consistently delivering exceptional results. In recognition of my achievements, I was awarded Master Builders South Australia’s Certified Construction Professional of the Year in 2021.

Today, I leverage my extensive industry experience and professional network in strategic business development and management, driving growth and innovation across the construction and consulting sectors. I work closely with construction firms, urban developers, and stakeholders to deliver significant value and contribute to the continued advancement of the industry.

At a glance

Role

Program Manager, Born to Build

Based In

Adelaide, South Australia

Specialties

Mentoring

Community

Trades Pathways

Engagement

Career Journey

From Trades to industry champion

Early Career
Apprentice Carpenter Joiner

Completed Cert III in Carpentry and Joinery learning from digging trenches for footings through to final brush strokes. 

Applying Skills
Tradesman Team Leader

Over time, I advanced to roles as a Tradesman, Team Leader, and Project Manager.

Business Operations
Commercial and Industrial

I broadened my skill set in the commercial and industrial sectors, contributing to large-scale projects.

Community Engagement
Coaching and Mentoring

I transitioned into Business Development for a bespoke business coaching firm.

Commercial Success
Recognition

As the owner of a high-end residential building company for 10 years I successfully led projects from concept to completion. Awarded Master Builders SA Certified Construction Professional of the Year in 2021.

Today
Born to Build Program Manager

Helping the next generation discover meaningful, lifelong careers in the construction industry.

What Matt Does

Areas of expertise

Program Management

Leading the Born to Build initiative across South Australia, end-to-end.

Mentoring & Support

Guiding apprentices, employers and schools through every stage of the journey.

Industry Engagement

Building strong partnerships with employers and education providers state-wide.

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re a student, parent, school or employer — Matt would love to hear from you.

Explore All Trades

Hands-on vocational pathways in construction, plumbing, carpentry and more.

Explore All Trades

Office and site-based roles in project management, estimating, design and beyond.