Supporting Australian Earth Training’s Digital Transformation

Written on the 20 April 2026

At Project Fit Services, we're passionate about helping businesses streamline their operations and achieve their goals. We recently had the pleasure of partnering with Scott Lidster, the owner of Australian Earth Training (AET), to help him navigate the challenges of rapid business growth. It's a story of transformation, moving from a successful one-man band to a structured, professional organisation ready for global expansion.

The Challenge: Growing Pains for a Growing Business

Australian Earth Training provides essential mobile plant operator proficiency training across the mining, construction, and quarrying industries. As AET's reputation grew, so did its operations. What started as Scott's solo venture quickly expanded, with trainers working on sites around the world.

This rapid growth, while exciting, brought significant operational hurdles. Scott found himself juggling an increasing number of moving parts, which began to impact his ability to manage the business effectively.

As Scott explains, "It’s gone from just a one-man band, me. Structure and decision were easily made. Having some kind of structure with some policy and procedures placed in was something I needed. I just didn’t know how." He added, "Trying to hold everything in my head wasn’t a strategy."

This pressure wasn't just about internal processes; it affected client interactions and had financial implications when details were missed. Scott knew he needed a robust system to support his growing team and client base but wasn't sure where to begin.

The Solution: A Partnership Built on Understanding

After a referral from a mutual colleague, Scott got in touch with us. From our first conversation, we focused on listening and understanding the unique needs of AET. We know that for small to medium enterprises (SMEs), practical and effective solutions are key. It’s not about using complex jargon, but about painting a clear picture of what's possible.

Scott felt this connection immediately.

"The initial conversations were easy. They listen, their language was simple, they are super effective at painting the picture of what they think we needed."

Our approach was to collaborate closely with Scott to distinguish between the 'need-to-haves' and the 'nice-to-haves'. This allowed us to develop a tailored, cost-effective digital transformation strategy that addressed his most critical pain points first.

Delivering a Tailored Management System

Our team got to work creating a comprehensive, cloud-based management system designed specifically for AET's needs. The core of this solution was 'The Source', a SharePoint-based intranet site that acts as a central hub for the entire AET team.

This platform provides AET's globally dispersed team with 24/7 access to everything they need, from any device. Key deliverables included:

• Centralised Documentation: We developed a full suite of management system documents, including policies, management plans, training packs, and step-by-step procedures for key processes. This ensures consistency and compliance across all operations.

• Automated Workflows: We introduced online forms and automated workflows using Power Automate. This simplifies processes like incident reporting, compliance checks, and approvals, saving valuable time and reducing administrative burdens.

• Enhanced Onboarding: The new system streamlines the onboarding process for new team members, providing them with all the necessary information and access from day one.

• Powerful Reporting: By integrating Power BI, we created the AET Reporting App. This provides Scott and his management team with real-time data and insights into business performance and compliance metrics, enabling better-informed decisions.

Scott was impressed by the process.

"Every time we caught up for a project update, I was consistently blown away with the progress that was made and what they were building for us."

The Outcome: Clarity, Collaboration, and Confidence

The project has fundamentally changed how AET operates. The new system has provided the structure Scott was looking for, moving the business beyond its "one-man band" origins.

The most significant result for Scott?

"If I’m being honest, the biggest win right now is clarity of mind."

This newfound clarity and structure have had a ripple effect across the entire team. The centralised platform has fostered a more collaborative environment. "It has definitely brought us closer together. We are collaborating way more now than ever," Scott shared. "I feel it has ignited enthusiasm amongst the gang to ask, ‘how about we try this or that’. Which for me is neat. They want AET to be better as well!"

By implementing a scalable digital framework, we've helped free Scott from day-to-day administrative tasks, allowing him to focus on what he does best: growing his business and generating new opportunities.

We are proud to have supported Australian Earth Training on this journey. Scott’s final words on the experience capture the spirit of our partnership:

"Project Fit Solutions were extremely flexible throughout the whole process. I left each of our encounters blown away and felt positive for Aussie Earth's future."

If your organisation is looking to streamline operations, boost collaboration or take the leap into digital project management, get in touch with Project Fit Services. We’re here to help you find the right-fit solutions to move your business forward—no matter its size or stage. Reach out today to see how we can support your next project.