Capital Equipment News March 2024

in South Africa is Lonah Johnson. She started working at a Babcock workshop in 2018. “After high school, a friend suggested diesel mechanics to me. The more I researched, the more fascinated I became with machines. I decided to give it a shot, and guess what? I found it to be perfect! I absolutely love being a diesel mechanic!” she says. She’s proud to be in a workshop with six other women. “We support and encourage each other every day. It’s amazing to see this progress. To all the girls out there who dream of pursuing a career in mechanics, don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. Gender should never limit your potential. Embrace your passion, work hard, and believe in yourself. You can achieve anything,” she says. The growth continues The move towards achieving a better gender balance in the construction equipment industry aligns with a broader societal goal and is recognised as a strategic business move. Volvo CE acknowledges the industry’s challenges, particularly the shortage of skilled labor, emphasizing the importance of nurturing talent irrespective of gender. Christophe Lagandre, Head of Market Area Africa at Volvo CE, underlines the business benefits, stating that gender balance is not only a societal responsibility but also essential for delivering the best support for customers. b

“After high school, a friend suggested diesel mechanics to me. The more I researched, the more fascinated I became with machines. I decided to give it a shot, and guess what? I found it to be perfect! I absolutely love being a diesel mechanic!”

Lonah Jonson, Babcock Diesel Mechanic

TALKING POINT

150 are female. Aleya Serageldin, Executive Director for the Ghabbour Foundation, emphasises the commitment to promoting women’s roles in traditionally male-dominated sectors, specifically encouraging participation in the commercial vehicle specialization program. Dina, a third-year student specialising in commercial vehicle maintenance, shares her journey, expressing a passion for the field and a vision for higher education and entrepreneurship. Her story reflects the foundation’s dedication to empowering women in typically male centric vocations. Women in the workshop Babcock, Volvo CE’s dealer partner in Southern Africa, showcases a vibrant team of female mechanics. Thando, a 26-year-old mechanic at Babcock, started her journey through an apprenticeship program in 2019. “My fascination with mechanics

started at a young age when I helped fix my father’s taxis,” she says. “On my journey, I met an amazing neighbour who taught me that mechanics is about more than just cars. His help sparked a strong interest in me. I’ve had incredible mentors guiding me.” According to Thando she joins training sessions on Saturdays where the group will simulate faults and solve problems. “Day-to-day, I handle various tasks like stripping engines and overhauling transmissions and brakes. I’m also the designated driver on site. I manage the loading and off-loading of machines from transport. I’m licensed to operate everything from forklifts to rigid trucks. Right now, I’m focused on advancing my career. I’m studying instrumentation at Unisa. It helps me stay up to date with improvements in engine management, emissions, control, telematics, and other related topics,” she adds. Another female on the Babcock team

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