(rimmer)

Darren owns and operates The Kitchen Maker, having started the company in 2004. Prior to that, he was involved in a family business within the Joinery industry since he completed High School Certificate in 1993.

Darren also owned Total Polyurethane, a polyurethane business, that he ran in conjunction with a business partner for six years. This business employed 2 apprentices and turned over $800,000 per annum.

The Kitchen Maker employed two apprentices that started in TKMs early formative years. One has been with the company 18 years and the other 14 years. The apprentice that started with Darren 18 years ago is now Project Manager and the other is Foreman. The Kitchen Maker currently employ 2 apprentices which are both enrolled with ACFA.

Darren is passionate about the industry. The plan is for The Kitchen Maker to employ more apprentices as Darren sees this as a way forward to strengthen business and industry while at the same time upskilling and fostering individual personal growth. Apprenticeships are unique in the sense the work is immediate for business, the upskilling takes place both theoretically and practically in real time and feedback on an individual’s performance is immediate. This is a sustainable business model and it is this unique approach that will help strengthen, build and keep manufacturing in Australia.

Darren is also very community minded and through my business, The Kitchen Maker, with Community Sponsorship which has helped Darren build a great network for the business through staff and clients. At a personal level, Darren has also been involved in sail-racing since the age of 10, competing all over the world and recently skippered his own boat across the Atlantic.

Chris Chmielowiec, the son of a cabinetmaker and an interior designer, has been deeply immersed in the bespoke joinery industry for much of his life. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Chris moved to Sydney in 2014, bringing his specialized joinery expertise to the Australian market. Now based in the Northern Beaches, he views joinery as an art form that demands precision, craftsmanship, and perfection.

In 2021, Chris launched his company, Interspec, specializing in high-quality joinery projects, with a focus on the residential market. At Interspec, Chris emphasizes collaboration with skilled artisans to create timeless and beautiful interiors. By utilizing cutting-edge machinery, advanced software, and lean manufacturing practices, his meticulous approach ensures seamless execution and flawless results. This combination of craftsmanship and innovation has been key to Interspec’s success.

Chris is passionate about the joinery industry and is dedicated to advancing its growth and excellence. As a Board Member of ACFA, he brings his wealth of experience, innovative mindset, and commitment to fostering collaboration and sustainability within the trade. His vision is to support the development of the industry while maintaining the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.