At Programmed, our people have safety front of mind in everything we do, every day. Bolstered by our core value of Personal Safety Leadership, all of us play a role in ensuring the health, safety, and environmental wellbeing of our customers, the public, and ourselves.
We’re proud to be represented by team members who actively live our values every day – and we’re so thrilled to announce that Michael (Mick) Eliades, Handyperson at Programmed Facility Management, has taken home the Mark Storti Award for Safety at the Melbourne Airport Excellence Awards 2024!
The Mark Storti Award for Safety epitomises Melbourne Airport’s non-negotiable commitment to workplace safety, with the winner exemplifying safety leadership for travellers, visitors, and the entire airport community.
Driven by an admirable authenticity, Mick’s passion for safety and wellbeing has been continually demonstrated through his active engagement with his team members and the wider community.
He is always accountable, taking responsibility in situations that many would choose to avoid, managing risk before approaching hazardous situations, and bringing genuine concern and dignity to those impacted and vulnerable.
Mick Eliades – The inspiring stories of a Programmed Safety Superstar
2023 was a particularly impactful time for Mick, as he took initiative to step in and assist with two major emergencies.
In September 2023, on the way to work, he noticed a driver with smoke billowing from the bonnet of her car. Immediately ‘owning’ the situation and taking responsibility for the safety of the driver and other road users, Mick motioned for her to pull over, after which the car’s engine caught fire.
Mick and his workmate Phil Scavo took the fire extinguisher from their work ute, extinguished the fire, and also attended to a fellow motorist that was distressed by the situation.
Just two months later in November, Mick was once again driving to work when he noticed a person lying in the road who had evidently been hit by a heavy vehicle. Cars and trucks were swerving around the scene, narrowly missing the site and other drivers.
Mick pulled over, taking great caution as he stepped out onto the freeway to divert traffic around the scene, and keeping all in attendance safe. He called on his Programmed colleagues to assist with the complex traffic management, noting their proximity to the incident site and possibility of rapid attendance.
Upon arrival, Mick briefed his team on all safety considerations, and our Programmed team managed as first-responders until the authorities arrived and took over. The authorities were incredibly impressed with Mick’s implementation of traffic management in a complex environment.
An outstanding example of Personal Safety Leadership we can all look up to
Safety is often about action, not inaction. If there is ever a situation that requires action, Mick will be on the scene, assisting airport travellers, work colleagues, and his local community.
While Mick’s quick thinking and passion for safety has led him to preventing some serious emergencies, he’s also just as likely to be found at the team’s regular BBQs, serving up his Greek family recipes for all to enjoy. If there is fun to be had, Mick is there - his self-deprecating humour and commitment to Programmed’s ‘Work and Smile’ ethos making him a much-loved and valued team member.
We’re inspired by Mick’s passion and empathy, with this very well-deserved award representative of his enormous contribution to our Programmed community. Well done, Mick!