Fun. As Aussies, we’re known for it. We’ve turned it into an art form. On a construction site, if your name is Michael, it is likely you’re called Micko, Mickey, Mickster, Micaroo, Mick the Quick, Mick the Brick (if you’re a brickie that’s solid as a rock) or worse. But not often just Michael.

In Australia, if your name is long, we’ll shorten it. If your name is short, you can bet your life Aussie’s will lengthen it. If your name is Todd, you can kiss goodbye to that name too, as it becomes to Toddie, Todster, T-man or something that rhymes with Todd and relates to the trade you’re in.

Complimentary nicknames are an art-form in Australia and taken as a sign of acceptance and friendship and reflect the Aussie’s propensity to have a laugh and instigate a chuckle or two.

When you work with a tradie, his nickname can often reveal a story. So asking what is behind the nickname can give you an insight into the personality, background, quirks and uniqueness. The information can be valuable in understanding them on a deeper level and what they bring to the table beyond their ‘trade’.

Here’s a fun quiz in identifying your fellow tradies and some common nicknames. And if you have anyone on site with a nickname like the ones below, here’s high fives to you Tradie Legends:-

• Limo – carries 8 other people.
• Turbo – always works at high speed.
• Magician – makes challenges disappear.
• Chief – takes charge.

IDENTIFY THE TRADIE QUIZ

Identify Tradie No. 1:

The brainiac of the site, this tradie is the one who somehow manages to make sense of the chaotic mess and formulates a solid process to follow. Often called the “pretty boys” of a worksite because they are usually immaculate in their dress even after being in a roof for the day. This guy will arrive at site in a clean van, mags polished with the latest in van wraps (because impressions matter), the tools will work, and the job will get done right. They have a propensity to wrap everything in black themselves. A sharp eye for detail, a knack for problem-solving ensuring every step is flawlessly installed and maintained. They troubleshoot issues swiftly, preventing potential hazards with a level of calm and precision that reassures the entire team. Their dedication to safety, combined with their ability to think on their feet, makes them invaluable in creating a productive and secure work environment. Often seen with a torch strapped to their head, even in board daylight. The older tradies remind the apprentices that nothing much can shock them these days. The new tradies in this field can’t live without their fancy testers and smartphones. Has an impressive collection of “No worries, mate, it’s safe” stories.

Fun Personality Trait: Known for their knack for making shockingly bad puns, like calling every problem a “current issue.” Sometimes they call their apprentices “shock absorbers” but don’t get too shocked about much themselves. When asked if they are good at their trade, they generally respond if they weren’t really good, they’d be dead by now.

Friends and Family Nickname: Watt Wizard, Spark Master, Power Ranger.

Identify Tradie No. 2:

The unsung heroes of any work site, ensuring that the essential systems are expertly installed and maintained with a liberal application of silicone. This tradie always knows where to find things, has a plan, and usually tell you all about it. They can fix a blockage faster than you can blink, though they’ll then take their time to explain all the fixtures and fittings. Their deep understanding of their trade means they can quickly identify and solve issues, preventing costly delays and ensuring everything flows smoothly. They dress well (not as good as the electricians though) and in the past have been known to show a bit too much skin. Their utes are heavy, laden with every bit and bob that will ever be needed (and some special pieces kept just in case it is needed in the future). With a meticulous approach to their craft, they take pride in creating reliable, leak-free installations that stand the test of time, and bring a practical mindset to the site, often finding clever solutions to complex problems that others might overlook.

Their commitment to quality and efficiency not only keeps the work site running seamlessly but also guarantees that the job is done right the first time, saving everyone time and hassle in the long run. Often found at the metal recyclers on the way home.

Fun Personality Trait: Known for their ability to collect every type of fitting and tool and turn their workbenches into mini-museums of their trade. Often heard saying “it’s a trap”!” Can feel like the day has been a bit draining after a long day.

Friends and Family Nickname: PipePro, FlowHero, Pipeologist, Tap Dancer

Identify Tradie No. 3:

This tradie sets turns blueprints into a solid foundation for every project. They are the “smooth” operators of the site. They are the backbone of any construction site, with a strong work ethic and a keen eye for precision, they bring unmatched expertise. They will be there early, and they’ll leave early. Their hands-on experience means they can anticipate challenges and adjust on the fly, delivering a flawless results and their hands show their profession clearly. They know just by looking at a product if something is off. They may arrive on site in uniform, but soon it will be shirts off with bodies that are artforms with tattoos. Beyond their technical skills, they bring a level of determination and resilience to the site, often working in tough conditions to get the job completed. Their commitment to quality and their ability to work as part of a cohesive team make them indispensable, laying the groundwork for the success on each site. Older tradies will be heard telling apprentices how to do it “the proper way”. Some may display a borderline obsessive need to smooth out every surface. This tradie has a favourite trowel and will protect it like it is a family heirloom.

Fun Personality Trait: Known for treating every job like a competitive sport and completing each job with the age-old tradition of a celebratory finish. Often heard saying that you need to stay flexible in your thinking in this job, because some minds are thoroughly mixed and permanently set and don’t suit the trade. On quotes, they’ll make sure the figure is set in concrete.

Friends and Family Nickname: MixMaster, Concrete Champ, Slab

Identify Tradie No. 4:

These tradies are the ‘artists’ of the construction site, shaping raw materials into functional and beautiful structures. With a blend of creativity and precision, they bring an unparalleled attention to detail, carrying a spirit level like it’s an extension of their arm. They can’t walk two steps without whipping out a tape measure. Their deep understanding of materials and tools allows them to craft everything with skill and efficiency and they can tell their material by smell alone. These tradies are known for their problem-solving abilities, often coming up with innovative solutions to design challenges on the spot. Their uniforms vary widely, but the sawdust in their hair is a dead giveaway. Older tradies will regale you with stories of tried and traditional tools, whilst the younger ones perfect their rapid-fire skills like it was a competitive sport at the Olympics. Their ability to work seamlessly with other trades ensures that projects stay on track, contributing to a smooth, well-co-ordinated work site. Their craftsmanship not only enhances the quality of the build but also adds value and longevity to the project, making them an essential part of creating any construction masterpiece.

Fun Personality Trait: Known for their habit of naming their favourite tools and treating them like old friends, often giving them a special place of honour in their toolbox. If you have the right words for each specific tool needed, you will be accepted into the “in-club”. Usually great savers, after all there has to be a budget for more tools.

Friends and Family Nickname: Woody, Craft King, Timber Titan, Stud

Identify Tradie No. 5:

These tradies are heroes in the work they do that would make the average person’s knees wobble. The only guys on site that are paid to get high. When these tradies are on site, it’s muscle mania. They provide critical support that allows other trades to work safely. With a meticulous eye for detail and a strong understanding of structural integrity, they build and dismantle with precision and care, ensuring stability and safety for the entire team. They will have a spanner for every occasion in record time. Their expertise means they can adapt quickly to the evolving needs of a project that will enhance accessibility and workflow. Beyond their technical skills, these tradies contribute a can-do attitude and a knack for problem-solving, making them invaluable in creating a safe and productive environment for all trades involved. Older tradies will talk about the days where safety gear was optional, and younger tradies are usually kitted out with the latest in safety gear and treat the site like it’s a jungle gym to be conquered. They may arrive separately on site, but a truck will always follow. And usually, there’s always a ‘bro’ conversation with laughter to be heard.

Fun Personality Trait: Known for turning their site gear into an impromptu fashion statement adding touches of personal fair to use on their obstacle course, turning even routine tasks into fun and high-flying adventures. They love living on the edge, but sometimes can feel like they are being set up.

Friends and Family Nickname: Rockstar Rig, Tower Tamer, Height Hero (and of course, Bro on everything)

Identify Tradie No. 6:

This tradie is the perfect blend of Tradie 3 and Tradie 4: the unsung heroes of a site who shape the future of a construction site and its success, like it is their second nature. Their precise work ensures that everything is correctly aligned and secured, which is crucial for achieving the desired strength and finish of the final structure. With an expert understanding of materials and engineering principles, these tradies can adapt designs to meet specific project requirements and address challenges that arise. The older tradies tell stories about how they used to “eyeball” everything before laser levels existed. The younger tradies have a strong grasp of modern techniques and technology, often sharing their innovation and efficiencies. Both have pockets full of nails, screws and other bits and bobs and can swing a hammer like it is an extension of their arm. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality help prevent costly mistakes and delays, while their ability to collaborate effectively with other trades ensures a seamless workflow. By laying the groundwork for solid, reliable structures, they play a pivotal role in the success and durability of any construction project.

Fun Personality Trait: Known for turning their quirky habit of meticulously arranging their tools into a specific pattern creating what looks like tiny, elaborate personal art installations, to satisfy their thirst for accuracy, assembly and precision. Loves challenges, but don’t let them near a Lego or Meccano set unless you have a few hours to wait.

Friends and Family Nickname: MouldMaster, Shape Shifter, Formie

So next time you’re on-site, take a closer look at your fellow tradies and listen out for any nicknames for telltale insights – and perhaps share a laugh or two over their quirks. After all, it’s all part of the charm of working with Aussie tradies!

How did you go with guessing the tradie. Of course you got a perfect score, but just in case you just wanted to check, the answers are below. If you have a funny insight into other tradies in the industry, give me a shout out. In the meantime, how many did you get right?

Answers:

1.     Electrician2. Plumber/Drainer; 3. Concreter; 4. Carpenter; 5. Scaffolder; 6. Formworker.

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Our leading 'superpower' is attracting and retaining quality team members who share our values of honesty, integrity, diligence, and service, allowing us to deploy quality team members on client sites quickly.

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Chantal Penny is the Director with Superpowers of SiteForce Recruitment. A thought leader in the industry, Chantal, based on her expertise and industry perspective, offers unique guidance, inspiration, and influence in the industry. Chantal Penny is also a thought leader in the industry with her Podcast, Talent Instinct, which is available at:
https://talentinstinctpodcast.libsyn.com/site

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