KEY SKILLS: Project management, stakeholder management, consultancy, staff mentorship and training, staff operations

KEY TECHNICAL SKILLS: Project planning, enclosure design, asbestos removal methodology, demolition, deconstruction

With ten years of experience in the asbestos removal & demolition industry and 8 years as an A Class Supervisor, Cuba has developed a comprehensive knowledge of the industry, and is able to execute projects to the highest standards, ensuring a safe and compliant work environment for his team and clients. His dedication and exceptional work ethic led him to become the youngest A Class Supervisor in industry history, when he was awarded in 2015.

Cuba has proven his expertise on numerous construction and demolition projects throughout the country, and for a variety of clients including schools, hospitals, government organisations and ministries. Outside of work, Cuba values spending time with his young family and taking his boat out with friends and family.

Cuba’s drive to succeed and commitment to his craft has enabled him to build a strong network and highlights the importance he places on both his professional and personal values.

KEY SKILLS: Operations management, site delivery oversight, HSQE oversight, client relationship management

KEY TECHNICAL SKILLS: Management of highrisk demolition, logistics management, on-the-spot troubleshooting

A founding Director of ARC Asbestos, Thomas has a solid background in concrete cutting and a specialist skillset in high risk controlled-demolition and deconstruction of concrete structures. The formative years of his career were spent working within some of Australia’s largest demolition companies, on very large-scale commercial, industrial and bridge demolition projects. The experience and expertise gained over this period has contributed significantly to his ability to establish two successful companies, selling his first in 2020 to set up ARC Asbestos with business partner Cuba Pakai.

Bringing the ideal combination of specialist technical capabilities and industry knowledge, alongside strong business acumen and relationship building skills, Thomas is integral to the day-to-day running of ARC – with his focus areas being procurement, pricing, contract management, on-site oversight and new business development.

A passionate people leader, Thomas is a firm believer that attitude is the most important attribute when hiring staff and invests heavily in upskilling those identified with the right attitude to achieve specialist skillsets and career advancement. This approach is serving the business well, with hundreds of successful projects and satisfied clients – and a loyal and growing team delivering exceptional results time and again.

KEY SKILLS: Project management, stakeholder management, cultural & community engagement, worker training, health & safety compliance, administration

KEY TECHNICAL SKILLS: Health & Safety, machinery operation, civil works, industrial design

Clinton’s primary responsibilities as a director include health and safety, project management, administration, and IT. Although relatively new to the field of demolition and asbestos, his diverse skill set and varied background complement those of his colleagues. He views this diversity as a key factor in developing their distinctive methodologies, setting them apart from competitors.

Throughout his childhood and teenage years, Clinton worked in civil and rural construction within his family’s business where he gained practical knowledge of Earth & Civil works and to wrangle with a diverse range of heavy machinery. Later, he attended Massey University where he studied industrial design, and Te Wānanga o Raukawa where he honed his te reo competency and learned whakairo (carving).

Clinton hasn’t looked back since being invited to join the company two years ago. He loves the varied nature of the role, and the ability to both pass on his knowledge and learn from his colleagues. With his precious free time, he enjoys outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and hunting. He also continues to pursue his creative interests through drawing when he gets time

KEY SKILLS: Project management, pricing, scheduling, project dilivery, team leadership, innate ability to solve problems

KEY TECHNICAL SKILLS: Management & execution of high-risk demolition projects, carpentry & civil construction, heavy machinery operation

James McGrath is an accomplished Project Manager at ARC with an impressive background in construction, demolition, and project management. With a National Certificate in Carpentry from BCITO, coupled with a Licensed Building Practitioner accreditation and registration with MBIE, James’s unique blend of skills, hands-on construction experience, and demolition expertise makes James an invaluable asset to ARC Asbestos Removal and Demolition, ensuring the safe, efficient, and profitable completion of all projects under his management.

James’s career spans over a decade, initially building high-end architecturally designed homes before expanding into demolition, honing his expertise in this area over a number of years at Central Demolition. His construction knowledge allows him to see a demolition project through a specialist lens, and his innate problem-solving and innovative thinking make him a perfect fit for the dynamic challenges of asbestos removal and demolition projects, ensuring the safe and efficient dismantling of complex and high-risk projects.

Outside of work, James is a dedicated family man, taking immense pride in the construction of his family home, and the management of his farm with his wife. An avid outdoorsman, his hobbies include boating, fishing, and hunting.

Arapeta began his career in asbestos management in Manawatu, where he dedicated years to developing his expertise in the field. He then transitioned to the South Island, stepping into a leadership role as a Supervisor. Today, Arapeta continues to build on his experience as a Supervisor at ARC, where he plays an integral role in driving operational success.

With a passion for the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the asbestos industry, Arapeta thrives on the challenges it presents. His ability to adapt and continuously learn has been key to his success, and his exceptional leadership skills allow him to effectively manage teams while fostering a productive environment.

At ARC, Arapeta has found more than just a workplace; he has embraced the company as his second family, bringing dedication, collaboration, and a strong sense of teamwork to his role. Outside of work, Arapeta enjoys staying active through regular gym sessions and values quality time with his children and family.