TRT's Dave Carden - Innovator, Leader, Legend!
2 October 2017
As TRT are celebrating the significant milestone of 50 years in business, TRT’s founder Dave Carden (87) has been honoured by the New Zealand transport industry and inducted into the NZ Road Transport Hall of Fame at a black tie event held in Invercargill on the 29th September, 2017.
Supported by his family, TRT Directors and some long serving employees, Dave was humble in his acceptance, as has always been his approach. “It is with great honour & pride to be accepted as a member of this impressive gathering of industry talent. I thank the Richardson Group for their dedication to the history of the NZ Road Transport Industry” said Dave.
This industry recognition comes at the same time TRT is celebrating 50 years in business (1967 – 2017), and Dave Carden, instrumental in its long term success.
Kevin Chubb, TRT’s Managing Director supports the importance of the industry recognition, “TRT has always understood the significant contribution Dave has made to the heavy transport and crane industries in New Zealand. It is wonderful that this has now been recognised by his peers in the road transport industry. We are very proud.”
From the beginnings at Southside Engineering in Putaruru in 1958 and Jack Tidd Ross Todd from 1967, to Managing Director of Tidd Ross Todd Limited from 1987-1997. Although he is now retired, Dave remains active in the business as a Director.
Dave has lead innovative contributions to many large scale engineering projects and transport engineering innovations in New Zealand and more recently Australia. Including;
- Putaruru Rail Bridge -1965
- Development of Tag Axles – 1969
- Kaimai Tunnel Beams – 1970
- Logging Jinkers – 1970
- Tidd Crane Carrier – 1976
- Tidd Hydrasteer - 1982
- Hydraulic House Mover – 1988
- TractionAir CTI - 1998
- Platform Trailers -2013
This great character, engineering genius and inspirational leader is often quoted saying “Do it once, do it right”. Dave continues to inspire true family values and a comradery that resonates throughout the organisation. It is reflected in the leadership of Bruce and Robert Carden, his sons and Executive Directors, our loyal customers and the 200 TRT team members in NZ and Australia.
More information about the TRT journey is available in the history of TRT.