Blink and you’ll miss him. McNab Project Administrator Reece “Lightning” Holder takes the title of the second-fastest Australian 400m runner of all time. From having a hand in nearly every project at McNab, to flying around a track in under 45 seconds, Reece proves you don’t have to choose between passion and profession.
When Reece joined McNab in 2023, he was already moving at a rapid pace, academically and athletically. While studying Construction Management and Urban Development at QUT and working at McNab, everything started to fall into place all at once.
“When I first came into McNab I was a construction cadet,” Reece says. “But at that time, I’d qualified for the Olympics and my whole training schedule flipped.”
Reece worked with McNab and advanced his role, transitioning into a Project Administrator within McNab’s 150+ person Trades & Labour team, focused on productivity and tracking.
Pursuing passions
Hours of training every day, studying at university and working might seem like a lot to balance, but Reece has found his groove. He knows that success is not a solo effort, crediting a good support system to his rise to an Olympian.
“I'm very fortunate and lucky with what McNab has done with me over the past few years, giving me the time off I needed for training and competitions,” Reece says.
Dropping down to two days a week, Reece still feels confident in his role at McNab whilst being able to pursue his passions.
A team that builds you up
Before Reece received a sponsorship from Nike, McNab delivered critical support in his success by covering all of his travel expenses leading up to the Olympic Games.
“That was huge, it helped me a lot,” Reece says. “I was never stressed. My team made everything seamless. When I left for the Olympics, they told me to not even bring my computer, they just wanted me to focus.”
That kind of trust made all the difference, as Reece went on to qualify for the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
“I can’t even put words to how it felt when I first got the call. You feel this sense of accomplishment and pride. The Olympics is the pinnacle of our sport. It’s something you work toward for your whole life,” Reece says.
Specialising in the 400 metres, Reece has already achieved incredible results, including a personal best of 44.53 seconds and finishing 14th overall at his Olympic debut.
But he’s far from finished.
With his sights set on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Reece is entering the prime of his career.
Constructing a future
Reece credits McNab’s flexibility to his ability to focus on his track career.
“They've given me the time off I've needed. I’ve never felt boxed in,” Reece says.
“They truly want to help you grow. Everyone takes the time to help you understand things and develop your skills.”
From adjusting his workload to welcoming him back after months overseas, McNab ensured he never had to choose between trades and track.
“It’s changed my opinion of workplaces completely. McNab is somewhere you actually want to work,” Reece adds.
Your passion belongs here
For now, Reece is preparing for a future in construction, while still running at full speed.
“I’m learning as much as I can so when my track life is retired, I’ll be able to come back and excel in my career.”
Reece didn’t have to trade in his starting blocks for concrete blocks. At McNab you are supported in your hobbies and passions, and your team will be cheering for you every step of the way.
“If you’re passionate about something, why not pursue it?” Reece says.
