David Du, the founder of Geotech Engineering and Consulting NZ Limited (GECNZ), set out to solve some of New Zealand's toughest land stability problems. With over thirty years of experience in engineering and construction, David saw a need for innovative solutions to stabilise land affected by earthquakes. His journey, supported by Business Mentor Keith Love, showcases resilience and the power of mentorship in driving business success.
Unearthing a business: The start of GECNZ
GECNZ was born from the challenges David encountered when conducting geotechnical investigations and research amidst the Christchurch earthquakes from 2012 to 2015. He and his team discovered that many land areas were at risk due to liquefaction, where the ground becomes unstable during an earthquake. This problem made it hard to build safe homes. Motivated to find a solution, David developed a patented technology called Subsurface Compacted Rubble Raft (SCRR) to make the land stable again. This technology transforms risky land into safe, usable spaces, drawing on David's extensive knowledge and passion for solving complex problems.
Seeking mentorship: A strategic move
In August 2021, David faced a new challenge: launching his business. He contacted Business Mentors New Zealand and sought guidance in developing a business strategy, commercialising his services, and building a network in the engineering sector.
David’s Mentor, Keith Love, had a profound impact on GECNZ from May 2023 to June 2024. Keith’s extensive experience in business development and marketing proved instrumental in guiding David through various challenges and helping him make informed business decisions.
Laying the groundwork: Overcoming challenges
One of David’s main challenges was connecting with the right people and resources. Keith played a key role in bridging this gap, offering strategic advice and introducing David to important industry contacts. Keith's guidance in business planning, budgeting, and legal frameworks was invaluable, helping David navigate the complexities of starting and growing a business.
Keith emphasised the importance of having a clear, actionable plan from the start, helping David avoid common pitfalls. He also recommended experts and consultants to accelerate GECNZ’s projects, which significantly improved efficiency. Keith’s feedback during crucial stages like contractor selection and company restructuring ensured David made informed decisions.
Building a support network: Solid connections
The support provided by a Business Mentor was crucial for GECNZ’s growth, helping David tackle challenges and find effective solutions.
Keith’s mentorship extended beyond strategic advice. He taught David effective risk management, emphasising the importance of identifying potential risks early and developing plans to address them. This approach was particularly valuable when seeking business partners and optimising operations. Knowing he had support from a dedicated Business Mentor allowed David to navigate the business landscape confidently.
Paving the way: Key milestones and achievements
Under Keith’s mentorship, GECNZ achieved several key milestones. Successful contractor selection, project approvals, site construction, and changes in company leadership marked significant progress. Keith’s guidance was instrumental in these achievements, contributing to the overall development and success of the business.
A notable milestone was the successful pilot project that validated SCRR technology. This achievement not only proved the effectiveness of David’s solution but also positioned GECNZ as a leader in land stability solutions. The positive impacts on landowners, developers, and councils reaffirmed David’s dedication to innovation and excellence.
Future horizons: Goals and aspirations
Looking ahead, GECNZ aims to expand the reach of SCRR technology, starting in Canterbury and eventually moving into national and international markets. Key objectives include securing additional funding to establish necessary infrastructure, broadening market adoption, and enhancing technology through ongoing research and development.
David envisions building strategic partnerships with construction companies, government agencies, and real estate developers to expand GECNZ’s market presence. Additionally, the company aims to enhance community and environmental impact by improving land usability and safety. By building a robust project pipeline and achieving industry recognition, GECNZ strives to make a lasting impact in land stability solutions.
Pillars of progress: Reflections and insights
Reflecting on his journey with Keith, David acknowledges the transformative impact of the mentorship. Keith’s guidance provided invaluable clarity and direction at crucial stages of business development. From offering strategic advice and connecting GECNZ with key experts to providing timely feedback and support, Keith’s impact was profound.
David highlights the importance of networking, seeking feedback, and understanding the role of a support network. Leveraging a Mentor’s connections opened doors to opportunities that might have otherwise been missed. Regularly seeking and acting on feedback enhances decision-making and performance, while the support network offered by a Business Mentor provides additional resources and expertise.
Foundation of advice: Tips for aspiring business owners
David’s advice for aspiring business owners considering mentorship is unequivocal: “Working with a Business Mentor has been transformative. The guidance has brought invaluable clarity and direction at crucial stages of our business development. From providing strategic advice and connecting us with key experts to offering timely feedback and support, the impact of a Business Mentor has been profound.”
Conclusion: Rock solid resilience and innovation
David Du’s journey with his Mentor, Keith Love, shows the transformative power of strategic guidance and support. From addressing severe land stability issues with innovative technology to navigating the complexities of business development, David’s story is one of resilience, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment to excellence. With support from a Business Mentor, GECNZ has achieved significant milestones and laid the foundation for a promising future in land stability solutions. As David continues to advance SCRR technology and expand GECNZ’s reach, the impact of his work on land stability and community resilience stands as a testament to the power of innovation and hard work.
