Meet Mxolisi Sithole (26), a former Mechanical Engineering Student at Berea Technical College. Mxolisi works as an apprentice Fitter and Turner with RCL Foods near his home in Pongola and has joined this in-demand career and shares his story of how he has transformed his education at Berea Tech to his work site.
Sithole is currently employed as an apprentice Fitter and Turner with RCL Foods near his home, where he says his Berea Tech College education has aided him in his current position.
“I always wanted to study Mechanical Engineering. I enjoy it and I still want to learn more,” said Mxolisi.
Mechanical Engineering is a branch of engineering that combines engineering physics and mathematics with materials science to design, analyse, construct and maintain mechanical systems.
In June 2021, the IOL newspaper published that Information Technology (IT) was the most in-demand career in South Africa. According to online newspaper, Briefly, Mechanical Engineering is ranked first among the best engineering occupations available in the “Jobs in Demand in South Africa in 2022: Top 20 list.” Mechanical engineers are in high demand in various fields in South Africa. They are required in the environmental and infrastructure sectors. Their problem-solving abilities are critical for any firm seeking to stay relevant and grow its territory in a competitive environment.
Mechanical engineers are involved in most parts of research, development and design functionality, and their work focuses on producing new improvements in equipment and mechanical systems.
Aeronautical science, construction, energy, the medical business, telecommunications and transportation are just a few industries where mechanical engineers work.
Berea Tech is committed to helping students find employment. The 100% Graduate Employment Programme emphasises the importance of employable abilities in the classroom and curriculum.
Mechanical Engineering is a mix of hard and soft skills covering computer skills, design and communication, creativity, problem-solving and paying attention to detail.
Mechanical engineers should have excellent written and verbal communication skills. They often need to explain their ideas and designs to clients who do not know engineering terms or are unfamiliar with mechanical systems. Mechanical engineers need to be clear in their explanations so that clients and peers understand the design or idea and feel confident in executing those ideas.
One of the primary duties of mechanical engineers is the design of mechanical systems. A mechanical engineer will use their creativity to design new tools, products and techniques that solve issues through these new technologies.
Additionally, mechanical engineers will use problem-solving abilities to work through issues that might come up, such as testing new products or a system malfunction.
“I have a mad passion for maths and science, and I hope to further my career by extending my education and putting my engineering abilities to good use in my community,” said Mxolisi.
To join the most in-demand engineering occupation in the country, visit www.btc.edu.za or email: engineering@bereatech.co.za