Breaking Ground, Building Trust
With Rob Miller From Pentacon
Rob Miller, Managing Director of Pentacon, is a civil engineer by trade, but more importantly, he’s a builder of culture, community, and trust.
After moving to Mackay over a decade ago from Ireland, Rob carved out his early career working with local authorities and private clients in engineering consultancy. Whilst that gave him valuable technical expertise, he quickly realised his true passion lay in the field – the contracting side of things – where he could see results rise from the dirt and into the infrastructure that shapes communities.
“Civil contracting is where I found the energy, the challenges, and the opportunity to deliver real, tangible outcomes,” Rob explains.
“I transitioned into contracting roles and worked my way up from Project Engineer through to Operations and General Manager positions in the Bowen Basin.”
His breakthrough came in 2017 when he joined Pentacon as a Project Manager and then transitioned to Operations Manager. At that time, Pentacon was a smaller business, primarily focusing on projects in South East Queensland and Chinchilla, with a few jobs sprinkled in the Bowen Basin.
“Living here in Mackay with my wife Jaimee and our three kids, I saw a chance to reshape the business and focus it more regionally – specifically in Mackay and the Bowen Basin,” he says.
“I wanted Pentacon to be a business that was truly local: employing local people and building infrastructure that benefits our communities.”
Rob’s vision took off. In 2021, he bought into the business, and within 18 months, he secured full ownership, turning the key on Pentacon’s next chapter.
Since then, the business has quadrupled in size. With over 110 staff, not including subcontractors, Pentacon now operates from two main offices — one in Mackay’s Paget industrial area and another in Brisbane — plus a presence in Gladstone.
“When I took over, Pentacon was a small civil construction company,” Rob reflects.
“Today, we deliver large-scale bulk earthworks and medium to large scale civil infrastructure projects throughout the state.
“We’ve grown from a handful of staff to a team that handles diverse projects, from bridges and roads to mining infrastructure.”
Modern Thinking, Old-School Values
Underpinning Pentacon’s growth is a set of core values Rob describes as non-negotiable.
“What drives me is a passion for building things that last…most importantly doing it safely, doing it well, and doing it with a team I genuinely believe in,” he says.
“One of our guiding principles is transparency - what we set out to do is what we do”.
“That’s a commitment we make to clients and one we follow through on every day.”
In an industry sometimes criticised for missed deadlines or cutting corners, Pentacon stands apart. The company has cultivated a reputation for honesty, transparency, and unmatched quality.
“We don’t just say we’ll do something…we deliver it…and that honesty and trust is what has brought us repeat clients and ongoing projects.”
The motto “Home Safe. Every Day.” isn’t just on the wall — it’s embedded in the business. Every decision is made with this core promise in mind.
“Safety isn’t a slogan. It’s the foundation of how we operate from the boardroom to the job site.”
Rooted In Community
Rob credits much of Pentacon’s success to its culture – one that feels more like family than a business.
“Our team is the heart of everything we do,” he says.
“We’re a fresh, modern company focused on quality, culture, and continual improvement. Everyone knows everyone here and the sense of community is real.”
Pentacon hosts regular Friday barbecues in Mackay and fun days for families, where the children of staff get their own branded shirts and feel part of the larger Pentacon family.
Rob and Jaimee have also supported a range of local causes:
• Bowen Basin Mining Club (QLD Mining Awards)
• Easts Tigers Rugby Union
• St.Johns Catholic Primary School
• Harps Gaelic Football Club
• Chinchila Netball
• Carlton Senior Rugby League Club
• GEA Gladstone
• Souths Sharks Cricket Club
• Mackay Mayors Charity Ball
• Children’s Hospital Foundation
• Mackay Community Foundation
• Eastern Swans Sponsorship
• Civil Contractors Federation
Growing Leaders From Within
Pentacon’s growth strategy includes a strong focus on internal development. Rob takes pride in promoting from within, nurturing staff to rise through the ranks.
“I love seeing our people grow,” he says.
“We’re bringing staff up rather than constantly hiring new leaders from outside.
“Nathan went from engineering manager to precontracts manager, and Ronan moved from project manager to operations manager…It’s been rewarding to watch them flourish.”
Unlike many firms that stick to one sector, Pentacon works across mining, civil, roads, and bridges, offering flexibility and variety to its people.
“We’ve got eggs in different baskets,” Rob says.
“Staff can switch between mine sites and local projects, which adds flexibility and keeps the work engaging.”
The Man Behind The Business
When asked about his leadership style, Rob credits his father, who ran a business while Rob was growing up, as a major influence.
“It’s kind of all I knew from a young boy to now,” he reflects.
“I also rely on an advisory board of trusted mentors who challenge and support the management team and I.”
Jaimee notes Rob’s openness, claiming that “His office door is always open – whether it’s for the cleaner or the general manager.”
“I want every staff member to feel heard, and that’s part of building trust,” Rob shares.
Outside work, Rob finds balance on his acreage in Mackay, where he spends time with Jaimee, their three kids, their dog, and a small flock of chickens.
“On weekends, it’s all about family…we’re either maintaining the lawn together or watching the kids ride bikes and swim.”
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on Pentacon’s journey from a small regional contractor to a powerhouse with an expanding footprint, Rob’s pride in his business is clear, but so is his hunger for what lies ahead.
“The future is bright,” he says with confidence.
“We’re grateful to our team, clients, and partners who’ve supported this journey, and there’s so much more to come!”
Q: Advice for the next generation?
A: Be patient, level-headed, and listen to the people around you. Don’t think you can do it alone. Set targets and be clear on your goals. Listen to all advice but always trust your gut.
Q: Hobbies or interests?
A: Most definitely golfing and fishing when I can find the time.
