At Phenna Group, we are proud to showcase the incredible talent and expertise that exists across our global family of businesses. This feature marks the launch of our Meet the Expert series, spotlighting the passionate, knowledgeable individuals who are making a real difference every day in the Testing, Inspection, Certification, and Compliance (TICC) space.
In this first edition, we meet David Keane, Inspection Manager at AME in Australia. With over 18 years of experience in the inspection and compliance industry, David brings a wealth of technical knowledge, strong leadership, and a genuine commitment to safety and quality in everything he does.
Introduction
Tell us about your background and how you got into this field.
I've spent over 18 years in the inspection and compliance industry, beginning as a field NDT inspector and working my way into senior roles. Along the way, I've gained experience across various sectors, especially working with pressure equipment and mechanical systems. I've come to value both the technical detail and the people-side of the work.
What does your role at AME involve day-to-day?
As Inspection Manager, I lead a team of 20 inspectors and three account managers. I support client engagement, help scope and resource inspection campaigns, and ensure our work aligns with ISO standards (9001, 17020, and 17025). I also oversee QAQC reviews, handle technical queries, and provide support to departments across the business.
What drew you to a career in inspection and compliance?
After completing a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Economics and Management at Murdoch University, I wasn't sure what path to take. I spent a year in Ireland and Europe before returning to Perth, where the mining industry was booming. A family friend recommended NDT as a starting point, and I began as a trainee at a major alumina refinery. That opportunity sparked my interest in inspection, and I've never looked back.
Expertise and Industry Insight
What's your area of expertise, and why is it critical to the industries you serve?
My primary focus is Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and pressure equipment inspection. I'm certified as an ISO 9712 Level 2 technician by AINDT, and as an In-Service Inspector by AICIP. I also hold API 653 certification for aboveground storage tanks, which is particularly important given Australia lacks a national tank inspection code.
These qualifications are vital in high-risk sectors like mining, where clients must meet strict safety obligations. Our certifications help ensure that inspections are carried out by skilled professionals, offering both peace of mind and legal compliance.
What challenges or developments in your field are you most engaged with?
The shift from the older MSIR framework to the new WHS 2022 Regulations in Western Australia has had a significant impact. Previously, pressure equipment on mobile plant was often exempt from inspection. Now, with the transitional window closed, full compliance is mandatory, especially in mining.
This change is a challenge for many operators, but it's also an opportunity to raise safety standards. AME is well-positioned to help clients adapt through expert inspections and practical support.
Can you share a project that showcases your team's capabilities?
A great example is our work with Roy Hill, where AME became their sole embedded supplier for registerable plant inspection services in early 2024. We expanded our inspection campaigns across their operations and supported them with compliance solutions like PRVs, documentation, and asset tagging systems.
We helped close out thousands of non-compliances, contributing directly to improved safety outcomes. Our efforts were recognised during a regulatory audit, where both Roy Hill and the auditor praised our work. It's a strong example of how we go beyond identifying issues, we help fix them.
About AME
Founded in 2006, AME specialises in Plant Inspection, Testing, Compliance, and Training. We serve the Mining, Energy, Transport, Manufacturing, and Public Infrastructure sectors, helping clients optimise asset integrity and meet regulatory requirements through a mix of experience, expertise, and technology.
Which industries do you work with most?
Mining is our core focus, and we work across commodities like iron ore, copper, gold, nickel, lithium, and rare earths. We also support infrastructure and general industry sectors. This range strengthens our capabilities and provides resilience against market changes.
What makes AME stand out in the TICC space?
Our strength lies in trusted, long-term relationships, especially with major mining clients. We're known not just for technical compliance, but for delivering real-world solutions.
Our Training Services team is also a key differentiator. For over a decade, we've offered high-quality, standards-aligned training that helps clients stay compliant under WHS legislation. This often leads to broader partnerships through our integrated service model, covering everything from inspections to consulting.
Looking Ahead
What trends are shaping the TICC sector in your view?
There's increasing regulatory focus, particularly under WHS 2022. Compliance can't be reactive anymore; businesses need to be proactive, thorough, and supported by competent professionals.
We expect to see more demand for end-to-end TICC services that include training, compliance strategies, and digital tools. At AME, we're investing in our systems and people to stay ahead of this shift and continue delivering value.
What are you most excited about for the future?
We're now three years into our five-year strategic plan at AME, and it's exciting to see it come to life. Our growth in both capability and reputation has been huge. It's also rewarding to see top talent approaching us; they want to be part of our journey.
Being part of Phenna Group opens the door to global collaboration, innovation, and best practice sharing. The future looks bright for our team, our clients, and the wider group.
On a Personal Note
What do you enjoy most about your work?
The people. Working alongside passionate, skilled colleagues and helping others grow is incredibly fulfilling. It's a people business, and that's what makes it meaningful.
What's a passion or hobby you enjoy outside of work?
Family life keeps me very busy; my wife is doing a PhD in forensic toxicology, and we have four kids aged 5 to 11. I also follow the Fremantle Dockers passionately. Hopefully, this is the year we bring home a premiership!
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself that not many people know?
In my younger years, I carried out inspections in many remote locations throughout the world, including in the jungle of the Southern Highlands in Papua New Guinea — often travelling by helicopter, with plenty of adventure along the way."
We hope you've enjoyed getting to know David and learning more about the vital work happening at AME. Keep an eye out for future instalments in our Meet the Expert series, as we continue to celebrate the fantastic people who power Phenna Group.