Steel & Tube’s reinforcing team is determined to change how large reinforcing and construction projects are planned, using technology to eliminate human error and greatly reduce the carbon footprint of construction.
Team leaders Christo Erasmus and Mikko Anzano are in the front row of this change, modernising New Zealand’s reinforcing industry. This year the team attended the Auckland BIM Safe Beyond the Blueprint Summit, showcasing how their BIM work adds value for our customers, helps projects run smoother, and makes the life in project management simpler.
Beyond his management experience in construction and his engineering degree, Christo is enjoying life here in New Zealand with his family. He and his wife immigrated to New Zealand in 2015 from South Africa and he is the proud father of a 17-year-old daughter now venturing into Psychology. Christo balances the demands of being a dad and his professional endeavours by carving out time for his well-being through his passion for running and working out.
As for Mikko, life beyond Steel & Tube is all about adventure. A keen cyclist, runner, and outdoor enthusiast, Mikko finds a thrill in pushing his physical boundaries. Whether it's on his bike or running 30km, yes, running 30 km! Mikko's passion is sport and adventure. But in the middle of all the excitement and racking up kilometers, Mikko cherishes moments spent with his seven-year-old daughter, who shares his passion for exploring and having fun.
Together, Christo and Mikko, form a great duo within and outside the workplace. Their mutual passion for technology, construction projects along with an active lifestyle create a dynamic duo that is reflected in their team and the people around them.
Christo and Mikko are fronting a service for our customers that helps solve construction alterations before work on site has begun, saving time and material waste.
Reinforcing for many construction projects is a complex puzzle when you consider evolving seismic practices and intertwine building services with different landscape topographies. Complex 2D drawings can also be difficult to spot design clashes, causing alterations to occur onsite. This is where the return on investment in 3D modelling pulls ahead.
Steel & Tube uses asynchronous cloud-based software that connects a 3D model to detailing drawings, and once ready, through to a physical cut and bend machine. This network allows our customers to visualise their project with a live 3D model as we work on it, and if a design clash is spotted, our team alters the digital model which also automatically updates our detailing drawings. This system almost removes human error completely.
For Mikko, “My excitement of technological advancements stems from my architecture background, with the problem-solving and intricate world of 3D modelling. 3D modelling is more than just a tool, it's a playground where creativity meets logic, and problems are opportunities waiting to be solved. It’s about identifying the clashes within a digital environment, so that our customers and project managers avoid the headaches when trying to fix them midst construction.”
For Christo, the excitement lies in the people—the talented individuals who bring projects to life with their dedication and expertise. As a seasoned leader, Christo understands the value of a strong team, especially in a project-based industry. With the introduction of 3D modelling software, Christo saw a transformation unfold with his team. The initial scepticism gave way to enthusiasm as they embraced the new tool, eager to enhance their skills and streamline their workflow.
With their unique perspectives and dedication to winning, Christo and Mikko have been involved with many large-scale projects like Te Kaha stadium in Christchurch, IKEA’s first warehouse in Auckland, or ACC Otepoti in Dunedin. They continue to help shape the future of construction, one project at a time, and they are showing no signs of slowing down. With their leadership and expertise, Steel & Tube is well positioned to continue leading the way towards safer, more efficient construction practices.