Annie Flack: A New Generation of Glaziers
In the world of property management, glass plays a far greater role than just aesthetics. It supports safety, energy efficiency, sustainability – and defines the character of a building.
Behind every pristine pane or intricately installed facade is a skilled glazier, a trade professional whose expertise shapes the built environment.
O’Brien Glass is proud to be home to some of Australia’s most capable and committed glaziers, delivering seamless, compliant and safe glazing solutions to businesses and properties nationwide.
Supported by a 24/7 Customer Solutions Centre and a nationwide network, O’Brien Glass can respond rapidly to glass emergencies – providing property managers with peace of mind that help is always close at hand.
Benton Duthie, Head of B2B Property, O’Brien Glass, comments, “With decades of experience under our belt and a nationwide network, O’Brien Glass is trusted by property professionals for one clear reason – our people.
“Our team of trade-qualified glaziers brings not only technical precision but also a deep commitment to safety, innovation and customer satisfaction.”
Here, we introduce three standout members of the O’Brien glazing team: Annie, Adam and Chris – professionals who reflect the values of O’Brien Glass.
While glazing has long been male-dominated, apprentice glazier Annie Flack is carving her path with confidence and enthusiasm. Inspired by her father and a hands-on upbringing, Annie knew after just two weeks of work experience at O’Brien Glass that this was where she belonged. Now, seven months into her apprenticeship, Annie speaks of inclusion and support: “All the glaziers male and female – treat me like one of them. That makes me feel like I belong.”
Her journey has been marked by growing independence and she’s proud to be a role model for young women considering a career in trades. “Just do it,” she says. “It was the best decision I made. I love my job, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.”
Annie is already proving herself in challenging strata and building environments, where evolving design trends such as larger, double-glazed panels require careful planning and coordination. From managing access challenges to working safely at height, Annie and her team follow strict protocols, prioritising safety at all times.
Adam Joyce: Over a Decade of Experience and Leadership
For Adam Joyce, it’s the team culture that has kept him at O’Brien Glass for more than a decade alongside the satisfaction of helping customers in their time of need.
Over the years, he’s seen the industry evolve, particularly as glass panels have grown in size, weight and complexity.
Adam’s leadership approach is grounded in humility and learning: “Asking questions and leading by example helps build a culture of shared knowledge.”
One of Adam’s proudest projects involved replacing large roof panels on a multi-storey building using cranes – a challenging yet rewarding task that required close teamwork and precision. Another standout moment was restoring more than 200 windows on a historic estate following storm damage, blending heritage sensitivity with modern glazing techniques.
He emphasises that open communication is the key to success in property glazing projects. “Photos, plans and ongoing conversations help us deliver exactly what’s needed.”
From his perspective, technology like digital booking systems and glass identification tools has revolutionised the trade. But nothing replaces the need for qualified professionals who understand the risks and nuances of each site.
Chris Smith: Mastery, Mentorship and Milestone Projects
Also with more than 10 years at O’Brien Glass, Chris Smith combines deep technical knowledge and a passion for mentoring others. “My role is to guide, advise and demonstrate. To help others grow.”
Chris has tackled complex projects including a largescale curved glass installation in Launceston that required precision and teamwork, as well as a full 35-metre shopfront upgrade for a major bottleshop, complete with automated doors and airlocks.
Technology, Chris says, has made a significant difference in lifting, measuring, and safety, reducing physical strain while enhancing project accuracy.
His advice to property professionals? “Trust your tradespeople. By explaining the process, we create clarity and help everyone move forward together.”
At O’Brien Glass, the expert team are not just trade-qualified, they’re passionate about their craft, and committed to safety, service and customer satisfaction.
Every glazier is trained to meet the rigorous requirements of Australian Standards, and every job is backed by a lifetime guarantee on the workmanship for the life of the building.
“We understand that glazing challenges in strata and commercial buildings are evolving. Larger glass panes, high-risk installations and changing compliance standards demand not just a glazier, but a trusted expert. That’s exactly what Annie, Adam, Chris and the entire O’Brien Glass team deliver” adds Benton Duthie, Head of B2B Property.
For reliable and hassle-free glass solutions, you can trust the team at O’Brien Glass.
When safety and compliance matter, and downtime isn’t an option, O’Brien Glass is the partner you can trust. Visit: obrien.com.au or call 13 16 16.
