Thank you curiosity for

PROFILE

Name: Yolanda Pitso

Age: 26 years

Profession: Mechanical Engineering (BEng)

Why did I choose engineering?

Well, growing up my father always pushed me to pursue science related subjects and all the like. So that gave me a sense of direction as to what I’d like to do. Then as the years went by my curiosity for solving problems grew, and that’s when I knew what I wanted to become an engineer. I saw engineers as problem solvers, if there is a problem they find a solution to fix it, and I wanted to do that.

What type of Engineer am I?

I am a project engineer. Basically I run projects. I make sure that a project is run effectively and efficiently while upholding best engineering practices. As a projects engineer you have to be aware that you work with different disciplines of engineering, you get to work with electrical engineers, architects, plumbers and the likes. We work together to complete the project to the client’s satisfaction

What does your job require you to do daily?

As a project engineer, you have to understand the mechanical equipment’s that you are either installing or maintaining. Though engineers do not physically install and maintain the equipment’s we need to be able to know the equipment in order to diagnose the problem and also to purchase the equipment. I supervise technicians on site, this entails ensuring that best work practices are followed including safety practices. I also hold meeting with clients and update them on the progress of the project. I also do some design work, especially if it is a new installation of equipment’s. Other than being a project engineer I also do training on solar thermal water heaters. I basically train individuals on solar thermal water heaters as well as show them how to install and maintain them.

Have you had any experiences of gender bias in the working environment and how did you address them?

Fortunately for me I have not experienced any bias in my work environment, I work with people and men that are open minded and are very encouraging. This helps to motivate me in what I do. Though I understand that the industry we are in is male-dominated we, women often at times have to work twice as much to prove themselves, and that is why we excel in what we do. Though at times it is frustrating we should not stop working hard.

What message do you have for young girls who would like to be engineers?

‘’it’s not that you can’t achieve your dreams …You just haven’t started chasing them’’

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