Jordan Pedley spoke to Quarry about her career in the industry and why she is passionate about continuing the legacy of her family’s business.
Following in your father’s footsteps and taking on the family business is no small feat, particularly when the company’s products are well respected locally and internationally.
For Jordan Pedley, the journey into the quarrying industry has been one of learning, growth, and a deep appreciation for the people who make it all happen. She vividly remembers when her father, Craig Pedley, encouraged her to spend a year working in the family business, an experience that ultimately shaped her career and passion for the industry.
“I’ve always loved learning from the people around me,” Jordan told Quarry.
“The experience and knowledge they share is invaluable, and I’ve gained so much from working alongside some of the most talented, down to earth and humble people in the crushing and screening industry.”
Jordan’s initial year was spent working in reception, giving her an introduction to the company and a first-hand look at how the business operated. She quickly realised how relationships played a critical part in the company’s success.
“I never saw it as just a job. It was an opportunity to absorb as much as I could about the company and why dad did what he did, and not only from dad but from the people who had been in the industry for years,” she said.
“They have so much to teach, and I love that every day one of dads clients would come through the door and bring new learning opportunities.”
Jordan’s passion for growth did not stop with her own development. She takes great pride in seeing new people enter the industry and thrive.
“I love the fact there is still so many amazing young people out there that want to be a part of this industry and seeing the fresh faces today and knowing tomorrow they will be industry leaders it’s amazing watching them grow,” she said. “It’s incredible to see how much potential there is, and I want to help create an environment where people feel welcome and supported.”
Over the past ten years, Jordan has gained experience across operational, leadership, sales, and hands-on roles to steadily build the experience and confidence to step into her father’s shoes.
While her hands-on experience has been invaluable, Jordan also holds a Bachelor’s degree in commerce which has given her a strong foundation in business strategy and operations.
“Commerce has given me valuable business insight, but nothing compares to the hands-on learning I’ve gained from working across every part of the company. The combination of formal education and real-world experience has helped me understand both the strategic and operational sides of the industry,” she said.
Striker is a well-known supplier of crushing and screening equipment that is known for its durability and performance.
“I was talking to dad the other night, he had just got back from site where he was inspecting a machine with over 80,000 hours of operation, the machine was first commissioned in 2006 and is about to head to another project where its going to see another 15,000 hours of operation, he said the client has a couple of machines with even more hours on them and they will keep going for years to come, it’s something I truly value and don’t think many crusher manufacturers can claim,” she said.
Striker designs and manufactures a wide range of mobile impact crushers, jaw crushers, cone crushers, sizing screens, scalpers, and conveyors, as well as a line of electric-powered crushers and screens designed to reduce carbon emissions and operating costs. Jordan’s experience working across different divisions has helped her develop a strong understanding of the industry and the people who drive it forward.
“I’ve seen firsthand how every role contributes to the success of not just our business, but the industry as a whole. It’s a team effort where every person’s work, no matter the position, allows us to achieve our goals and keep growing. That’s something I truly value,” she said.
Beyond her leadership at Striker, Jordan is actively involved in the Western Australian quarrying community. She plays a key role in the Institute of Quarrying Australia’s (IQA) Women in Quarrying program and helps manage Striker’s charitable initiatives.
“Success in any industry isn’t just about knowledge or experience,” she said.
“It’s about being open to learning, valuing the people around you, and embracing every challenge as an opportunity to grow.
“The industry is such a great place to be. The knowledge the older generation has is priceless, and I want to help ensure it is passed down to those coming in.”
Jordan believed that focusing on mentorship and growth will be crucial for the industry’s future.
“The next generation is essential to keeping the industry strong, and I want to see more people experience what makes it so great,” she said. “There’s so much to learn, and the people in this industry are some of the best teachers you could ask for.”
Jordan reflected on her experience of working in the family business.
“Learning from my dad has been one of the most valuable experiences of my career,” she said.
“He’s always led by example, showing me the importance of hard work, resilience, and staying true to your values.
“The lessons he’s passed down to me go far beyond business, they’ve shaped the way I approach challenges, leadership, and growth.”
Craig Pedley founded Striker in 1998 with a vision to create a hardworking, honest, and reliable crushing and screening equipment that could withstand the demands of the mining and quarrying industry.
More than two decades later, he is excited to see the business pass on to the next generation, bringing with it fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.
“The industry is always evolving, and having key people with passion and a can do attitude will support the next generation with new ideas and innovation, it’s key to staying ahead,” Craig said. “I’ve seen the company grow from an idea into a globally recognised brand, and now seeing the next generation step in with new technology, fresh thinking, and a drive to keep improving, it’s incredibly rewarding.”
He said that a successful business is built on people with a passion and a hunger for continuous learning and adaptation, and he’s proud to see the younger generation bring new energy while they maintain the core values that Striker was founded on.
For more information, visit strikercrushing.com
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