Starting a small business from scratch is a journey that demands courage, vision, determination, and a significant investment of time and energy.
Clayton Roxborough exemplified these qualities when he founded Steelcad Drafting in a one-room office in Coorparoo back in 1993. In hindsight, this initial step was more than just setting up an office; it was the birth of a vision to create a company that would grow to tackle some of the most complex steel detailing projects in Australia.
Clayton’s commitment to professional service and quality documentation laid the foundation for what would become a thriving business, driven by a skilled and passionate team.
Over the last 30 years, Steelcad Drafting experienced several office relocations, each move marking a milestone in the company’s expansion and the strengthening of its team. The growth was not just in size but in capability, with a stable group of steel detailers who brought expertise and dedication to every project.
The company’s culture is deeply rooted in quality, with every project adhering to the same high standards. This commitment is reinforced by processes developed under ISO 9001 certification, ensuring consistency and reliability in delivery. The team’s collective effort has been instrumental in establishing Steelcad Drafting as a leader in the industry.
Clayton was also heavily involved in advancing Australian steel detailing to the broader construction industry. His contributions include:
- Founding member of the Queensland Institute of Steel Detailing in 2001, which later evolved into the Australian Institute of Steel Detailers and more recently, the Australian Construction Modelers Association (ACMA).
- Clayton has been the AISD and ACMA Chairman since their inception.
- Fostering links with overseas detailer representative groups such as the NISD in the USA and Philippines Construction Modelers Association.
- Developing lasting relationships with the Australian Steel institute (ASI) including Queensland state manager, John Gardner and the various chief executives that have come and gone over the last 25 years.
- Lecturing 3rd year Engineering students and raising awareness of steel detailing at Queensland University of Technology
- Facilitating the steel detailer involvement in the ASI welding course
Changes to the Steelcad company management structure and business ownership have been underway for some years now, with long-term employees, Sean Roach, coming on board as a partner and director of Steelcad Drafting this year, Amanda Owen in 2025 and Philip Shanks serving as a director and partner since 2008.
The seamless evolution of the leadership team continues to drive the company’s success. Each partner brings unique strengths to the business, underpinned by a strong team of steel detailers; many of whom have been with the company for more than a decade.
Clayton has stepped back from the day‑to‑day operation of the business and has announced his retirement in July this year.
Phil will take on the General Management position of the company, Amanda manages the commercial aspects of the business, and Sean will oversee production and continue to take a lead role on our major projects.
Supported by a talented and long‑standing team of steel detailers, the business remains in safe hands and will continue to operate with the same commitment and capability.
From all the team at Steelcad Drafting we would like to thank Clayton for his guidance and support over the years and wish him all the best in his retirement.