15 years ago, Keaton started as an apprentice mechanic. Today he's responsible for teaching the next generation of Isuzu Technicians. 

Life has progressed since those early days of his career to the point that he is now the workshop 2IC to oversee apprentice training.

That is a big task as he has fifteen apprentices under his wing, but he says, that though it keeps him busy, it is a most rewarding job.

‘I get a lot of satisfaction in seeing these guys progress, and in a way, the job is something like a team sport.

‘I am training the guys, seeing them develop in their career - some are exceptionally talented and, in the end, the work we do keeps our customers on the road.

‘I enjoy my job – and it is a good company to work for.

Keaton’s passion for mechanical work does not end with trucks.

Motor vehicles are a big part of his life.

He races a Nissan Silvia in endurance racing at the 2.7km Collie Motorplex with the help of friends.

He has also just finished a 10-year project of totally rebuilding a Holden HZ one tonner in his home’s backyard shed. The HZ is a stunner that has wowed us all.

When he acquired the vehicle, it was rusty and in a poor condition.

Ten years later the vehicle has been fully restored – more than just restored it has been repainted to show car standards and fitted with a modern fuel injected engine.

It has also been fitted with a customised interior along with a beautiful jarrah tray that matches the immaculate paintwork.

The end result is that it has been shown in a number of car-shows where it has won:

• Car of the show.
• Judges Choice.
• WA Van and Ute state titles. Vehicle of the show, Top Ute, Top Engine Bay, Top Interior and Top 5 Utes.
• Best Presented.

It is a project that has not just been a great learning experience but one he can be extremely proud of.