Derek is the Technical Manager at QDS, responsible for leading our field service team and setting the technical standard across all aspects of service delivery. With over 12 years at QDS and a background as an electronics technician in the Australian Defence Force — including multiple tours in Afghanistan — Derek brings leadership, depth of experience, and unwavering commitment to quality.

Derek is known for his hands-on expertise, particularly in troubleshooting complex faults and mentoring team members. He plays a central role in developing QDS’s internal processes and service models, contributing to service design and operational improvement initiatives that enhance customer outcomes and increase efficiency.

He is also instrumental in driving QDS’s Refurbished Chair Program, overseeing the delivery of high-quality refurbished A-dec dental chairs. Under his guidance, refurbished equipment is rebuilt and quality-checked to meet the same rigorous standards as new installations.

Outside of work, Derek enjoys the outdoors — camping, fishing, and spending time on his boat. He is a strong advocate for Male Mental Health initiatives at QDS, and regularly organises technician weekends where the team can relax and recharge by the river and fire in their swags.

Kym is an experienced biomedical technician with over 23 years in electromechanical engineering, including roles with the Australian Defence Force and in both private and public hospital environments. He joined QDS in January 2019 and now leads technical training across the organisation.

Kym plays a key role in developing technician capability and embedding best practice. He is meticulous in his approach to work, making him an excellent trainer who ensures that all QDS technicians are trained to the highest standards. He also contributes to service design and process improvement initiatives that support technical excellence and customer satisfaction.

Outside of work, Kym enjoys fishing, camping in his swag with his wife Helen, and going on adventurous journeys — from trekking through Nepal to walking the Camino trails through Spain. He’s also a fan of camel race spectating and rarely misses an opportunity to explore off the beaten path.

Jonathan Shadwick leads QDS’s Steriliser Team and brings a strong electrical background and results-driven mindset to the role. An experienced electrician, Jonathan joined QDS in 2022 and quickly took charge of developing and expanding our steriliser compliance and testing services.

Since stepping into this leadership position, Jonathan has become a subject matter expert in dental steriliser compliance, ensuring that all testing and validation is performed in strict accordance with standards such as AS4815 and AS4187. He has implemented continuous improvements in workflow efficiency, optimised equipment layout, and refined reporting processes — helping to streamline service delivery and boost compliance outcomes.

Jonathan’s dedication and technical expertise have been instrumental in growing this vital part of the QDS business, supporting clinics across Queensland and northern NSW with dependable, high-quality sterilisation solutions.

Outside of work, Jonathan loves spending time with his wife Amy and their two energetic young sons. Whether it’s heading out on weekend adventures, building LEGO cities, or exploring new parks, Jonathan embraces every opportunity to create fun, meaningful moments with his family.

Mark is the driving force behind QDS’s warehouse and workshop operations. Since joining the team in 2023, Mark has brought with him a wealth of knowledge and over two decades of experience in logistics, workshop coordination, and equipment maintenance — including his previous leadership role managing the Van Workshop for Queensland Health.

At QDS, Mark plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth running of day-to-day operations. He oversees all workshop activity, manages inventory and logistics, and leads the servicing and maintenance program for suction motors and compressors — a vital part of keeping dental clinics up and running. Mark is also the go-to person for technical problem-solving in the workshop, helping the broader QDS team deliver on our promise of reliability and fast turnaround.

What truly sets Mark apart is his ability to lead with energy and positivity. He’s known for being helpful, resourceful, and unflappable under pressure — always ready to jump in and get the job done with efficiency and professionalism.

Outside of work, Mark is all about enjoying the outdoors. He loves camping, travelling, and sharing good food around the BBQ with family and friends. Mark brings warmth, dedication, and operational excellence to everything he does — making him a valued cornerstone of the QDS team.

Ash joined QDS in December 2024 and brings with him a solid background in dental servicing and marine electronics. His combined experience gives him a strong understanding of both precision electrical systems and the importance of reliability in technical service.

Ash is highly skilled in troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics, and ensuring compliance with relevant standards in dental environments. He is known for his proactive approach, attention to detail, and his commitment to delivering great service to customers.

Prior to working in dental, Ash worked in marine electronics, where he developed a deep understanding of robust system maintenance and safety-critical repairs—skills he now applies every day at QDS.

Outside of work, Ash is passionate about health and fitness. He recently completed his first marathon and enjoys running, hiking, and spending time outdoors whenever he can.