Curtin University of Technology - Top Student in Viticultural Units
Mark A Pizzuto
Originally dedicated to a career in Mechanical Engineering Mark's vocational history commenced with a trade in Fitting and Turning in the mining industry. Deciding that the world had more in store for him Mark enrolled at the Sydney Institute of Technology and graduated with an Associates Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. Mark served several years as Mechanical Project Engineer on various industrial projects throughout the State of New South Wales. After discovering that Western Australia had much to offer a dedicated Mechanical Engineer Mark moved from Sydney to Perth where he became in integral part of various engineering teams working on projects in both the mining and oil and gas industries. Although satisfied with his chosen career path something was lacking in his life, and a holiday to Margaret River highlighted what that was, 'passion'.
After spending time in this beautiful part of the world and being introduced to the pleasures of wine Mark decided that his engineering and beer drinking days were over and the wine industry beckoned.
Mark commenced his viticultural studies at Curtin University enrolling in a Bachelor of Science majoring in Viticulture and Oenology and completed his studies in 2006. During this time he has been employed as an assistant winemaker and viticultural supervisor. After sampling both wine production occupations Mark decided that the viticultural sector was where his future laid.
Mark is now employed as a viticultural manager for a medium sized vineyard in Margaret River and also provides a consulting service for other vineyards. Mark happily resides in Margaret River with his beautiful wife and awaits the birth of their first child.
'Dreams do come true'.
Curtin University of Technology - Top Student in Oenology Units
Lance Parkin
Lance's interest in wine making began when he was working in the hospitality industry in Perth. After completing an introductory wine making course, he enrolled in the Bachelor of Science (Viticulture and Oenology) degree at Curtin University.
'I always enjoyed working within the wine industry and the progression to wine making has been an exciting challenge for me,' Lance said.
Lance is currently working as a Vintage Assistant Winemaker for Houghtons. He has completed four vintages with Houghtons and an international vintage with Coveyrun in Washington, USA.