MEET THE TEAM
Jake Vetouladitis
Managing Director
With over 15 years of experience in the HVAC industry, Jake serves as the Managing Director of Highrise Mechanical and Highrise Commercial. The Highrise brand has quickly established itself as a frontrunner in the commercial mechanical plumbing and air-conditioning sector.
Throughout his career, Jake has successfully navigated a variety of projects, bringing a wealth of detail-oriented expertise in both business operations and HVAC systems. He believes that crafting a thriving business goes beyond mere transactions; it's about fostering a workplace culture where leadership and excellence drive success. This dedication to cultivating an adaptable environment has propelled the company toward remarkable growth and significant industry recognition in under five years.
Operating across multiple states, Highrise Mechanical has built a solid reputation as a reliable commercial contractor. Our primary focus is on collaboration—working closely with builders, consultants, project superintendents, and engineers to ensure that every project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest industry standards.
Jake is committed to continuous business growth and innovation, positioning Highrise Mechanical as an industry leader with a clear vision for the future.
Chris Penberthy
Highrise Mechanical Team Leader
Chris is a seasoned professional in the plumbing industry, bringing a wealth of experience from his diverse background. Since starting his plumbing apprenticeship in 2010 Chris has significantly contributed to an array of notable projects including Werribee Plaza, Eastland shopping centre, and other high-profile sites like Ravenhall Prison and the Novotel Hotel.
Throughout his career, Chris has excelled in various roles, such as leading hand, foreman, and senior foreman. His extensive skill set encompasses refrigeration, hydronic heating, sprinkler fitting, and various ductwork systems, which he has honed through years of hands-on experience.
Chris enjoys the challenges of troubleshooting and is passionate about collaborating with builders and other trades to ensure that every project achieves a high-quality finish. At Highrise, he values the collaborative environment that enables him to efficiently manage timelines and budgets while continuously striving for personal and professional advancement.
Tienna Ha
Financial Controller
Tienna is responsible for overseeing the company’s financial operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting, managing budgets, and controlling cash flow. She provides strategic financial insights to support management decisions while managing day-to-day financial tasks.
With over 7 years of accounting experience, Tienna’s passion for accounting began during her Year 10 work experience when she worked in the payroll department of a large multinational company. After obtaining her Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) degree in 2019, she quickly built a proven track record as an Excel wizard and a driver of process improvements in every role she held.
With a strong business mindset, Tienna combines her financial expertise with a creative edge, having run a freelance business as a graphic designer and marketing specialist for travel boutiques, a luxury home builder, and US-based entrepreneurs. Her diverse skill set in digital marketing and branding complements her role, enabling her to contribute to both the financial and creative growth of the company.
Paul Everton
Operations Manager
With 15 years of experience in the mechanical plumbing industry, Paul has established himself as an invaluable member of the Highrise team. His extensive hands-on experience spans across various project types, including multi-residential buildings, schools, aged care facilities, commercial fit-outs, and even basketball stadiums, he notably, also worked multiple seasons on 'The Block' as the lead HVAC installer.
Paul excels in projects that incorporate a wide range of mechanical plumbing solutions such as package units, ducted systems, hydronic heating, and chilled and heating water systems. His passion for the trade ignited when he assisted a friend in installing air conditioning in a house, prompting him to pursue a fulfilling career as a mechanical plumber.
Paul thrives in the collaborative environment at Highrise, where he takes pride in witnessing the company's growth and embraces added responsibilities while working alongside a supportive team. His main motivators are delivering exceptional results, taking pride in his work and his family.
Nick Harry
Highrise Commercial Team Leader
With over 20 years of industry experience, Nick has been an integral part of the Highrise team. Nick has developed a strong foundation in both plumbing and mechanical systems, having completed a Cert IV in Building and Construction, as well as parts of Cert IV in Plumbing to become licensed in gas, water, and mechanical services.
Throughout his career, Nick has contributed to a wide range of projects, including multi-residential apartment complexes, aged care facilities, commercial fit-outs, and hospitals. His choice to specialize in mechanical plumbing was influenced by the diverse opportunities within the field.
Driven by challenges that require critical thinking, Nick takes immense pride in delivering high-quality work. At Highrise, he appreciates the chance to delve deeper into the business side of operations, enhancing his understanding of the backend while advancing his career alongside a talented team both on-site and in the office.
Rosa Robins
Project Support
Rosa has dedicated over seven years to the construction industry, beginning her career as a project administrator for a telecommunications company, and progressing into a Contracts Administrator role with a renowned Victorian builder, she gained four years of invaluable experience in the building and construction sector.
Rosa is responsible for overseeing projects all the way through from the initial tender to contract execution and O&M manuals. She offers a unique perspective on a diverse range of projects, including multi-residential buildings, hotels, and mixed-use developments.
Rosa is enthusiastic about the opportunities for both her professional and personal growth within Highrise. She values her integral role during the company's early stages as it prepares for expansion. The variety of responsibilities and tasks not only excites her intellectually but also fuels her creative aspirations, making her an invaluable asset to the team.
