Our birthday Standards Heroes have been nominated by their peers to represent all our contributors - individuals we consider to be the real heroes of standards, in Australia and internationally. We thank those who contribute their knowledge and expertise, service, and time to Standards Australia for the benefit of the Australian community.  

Colin Blair was CEO of Standards Australia from 2010-2013.
How did you become involved in standards development? 

I was employed by Standards Australia as a Projects Manager in the Construction Sector, and subsequently moved to broader roles in the organisation.    

What role have standards played in your career?   

After graduating as a Civil Engineer, I became a Design Engineer in the private sector. Australian Standards were fundamental to the projects I undertook.

On joining Standards Australia, Australian Standards once again were fundamental to my career, however then from a development point of view.

What is a project you’ve been particularly proud to have helped deliver? 

The interaction with the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) who are the body responsible for the National Construction Code (NCC), which references Australian Standards, and there is a Memorandum of Understanding between the two organisations.  

Outside of standards development, what have been some highlights of your career? 

Being a student engineer at the Snowy Mountains Engineering Corporation (now Snowy Hydro), and also undertaking a secondment to the CSIRO.

What do you think the future of standardisation looks like? 

With Standards Australia focused on engaging with the broad stakeholder groups, and on the development and timely revision of Australian Standards in the national interest, and that deliver a net benefit, then Australian Standards will continue to significantly contribute to the economic development of Australia, and also ensure the safety and well-being of the Australian community.

Is there anything you’d like to say or mention about Standards Australia’s centenary year?
 
Standards Australia should be proud of the role it plays nationally, regionally and internationally. It is a credit to the organisation, the technical experts on the committees, and the member organisations, that it continues to be relevant and well respected.