02 Apr RPC CELEBRATES 50-YEARS IN THE COMPOSITE INDUSTRY – April 2025
Since 1975, RPC has led the way in advanced composite engineering and manufacturing, delivering more than $2 billion worth of projects across Australia’s critical industries. As we enter our 50th year, we celebrate a legacy of engineering excellence, advanced composite manufacturing and industrial leadership.
Reinforced Plastic / Composites Pty Ltd commenced operations in Australia in 1975 with the original facility established by Enrico Piccioli at the Powers Road, Seven Hills Facility for Transfield. The Head Office for RPC is still in Seven Hills, across the road from the original facility.
Enrico Piccioli was a pioneering force in the Australian composites industry. An Italian engineer born in South Africa; he earned his Doctorate in Composites from Milan University before being recruited by Transfield in the early 1970s. At just 25-years-old he was tasked with building a company that would set the benchmark for reinforced composites in Australia. Under Piccioli’s leadership, RPC set new industry standards and laid the foundations in composites manufacturing and engineering in the infrastructure sector, a legacy that continues to shape the composite Industry today.
RPC’s commitment to engineering excellence has defined the development of Australia’s composite manufacturing sector, delivering critical infrastructure and technology solutions that continue to shape industries including transport, water and wastewater, mining, infrastructure, defence and asset services. Beyond its technical achievements, RPC has played a vital role in advancing regional industrial capabilities, creating skilled local employment and strengthening Australia’s sovereign engineering and manufacturing capacity. RPC has also expanded its footprint beyond Australia, establishing a strong presence in Southeast Asia and India, where it continues to drive advanced engineered solutions and industry leadership.
Tony Caristo, Managing Director of RPC since 1997, said, “It has been a privilege to partner with our valued customers for 50-years. We take immense pride not only in the advancements we’ve made in composite engineering and manufacturing but also in the skilled jobs we’ve created and our contribution to Australia’s industrial capability. As RPC looks to the next 50-years, our focus remains on pioneering new composite solutions, expanding our capabilities and supporting the next generation of engineers and manufacturers who will drive the industry forward.”
Enrico Piccioli