Welcoming FTMA’s Three New Board Members for 2026

 

FTMA is thrilled to welcome three outstanding leaders to our Board—each bringing decades of experience, unique perspectives, and just the right amount of character to keep meetings interesting. Representing Queensland, Western Australia, Victoria and New South Wales, our new board members reflect the strength and diversity of our national network.

 

Ashley Young – Fortruss Frame & Truss, QLD

If the frame and truss industry had a Hall of Fame, Ashley Young would have his own display—complete with timber samples, a few battle-hardened jigs and maybe even a commemorative nail gun. After starting on the tools in 1989, Ashley has spent more than 35 years immersed in every part of the industry, from manufacturing to design to installation.

In 2004 he founded Fortruss Frame & Truss. Working with his beautiful wife Mel and son Lachlan, Fortruss has grown into a respected and trusted manufacturer in Queensland. 

 

Ashley Young – Fortruss Frame & Truss, QLD

 

Jacqueline Goodwin – AG Trusses (WA & VIC)

A driving force in prefabricated timber systems, Jacqueline Goodwin brings 28 years of experience and a passion for innovation that stretches across two states. As Director of AG Trusses in WA and VIC, she leads teams across residential, commercial and industrial prefabrication, always pushing for better technology, smarter processes and stronger outcomes.

Beyond her own business, Jacqueline actively contributes to the broader industry—most recently convening the 2025 WA Women in Construction networking event. FTMA is delighted to welcome her to the Board from February 2026, though we’re still preparing ourselves for her pace and energy.

 

Jacqueline Goodwin – AG Trusses (WA & VIC)

 

Jaden Fry – Mitre Truss, NSW

Jaden’s story begins where many of the best industry journeys do: on the factory floor. 
Starting in 2004 at his family’s business, Riverstone Frame & Truss, he learned the ropes the old-fashioned way—cutting studs, marking plates, setting jigs and tackling the dreaded rectifications.
He later moved into estimating, plan interpretation, detailing and senior roles, gaining a deep blend of technical, structural and management expertise.

After managing the business through its sale in 2021, and a brief stint elsewhere, Jaden joined Mitre Truss this year. With a carpenter’s trade background, Pryda and Mitek (20/20) software skills, leadership training and a healthy dose of emotional intelligence, Jaden will be a fantastic contributor to the Board.

 

Jaden Fry – Mitre Truss, NSW

 

Thank You to Our Outgoing Board Members

As we welcome new leaders, we also pause to thank and acknowledge our outgoing board members: Billy Bowley, Elizabeth van der Plaat and Aaron Hillman.

•   Billy Bowley resigned earlier this year due to work commitments, and we sincerely appreciate the time and insight he contributed during his couple of years.
•   Elizabeth van der Plaat may have only joined us a year ago, but she certainly didn’t behave like a short-term guest—her contributions have been outstanding, thoughtful and genuinely valued.
•   Aaron Hillman, who first joined the FTMA Board in November 2018, wraps up seven years of service, including a term as Chair. Aaron has been vocal, committed and unwaveringly willing to provide guidance, perspective and steady leadership. FTMA extends heartfelt thanks for his dedication, generosity and the significant legacy he leaves behind.

Looking Ahead

With three new board members stepping in and three valued colleagues stepping down, FTMA moves into 2026 energised, balanced and full of fresh perspective. We look forward to the expertise, enthusiasm and ideas Ashley, Jacqueline and Jaden will bring—and along with our steadfast board members, I know we will have another dynamic year.

Kersten Gentle
FTMA CEO