Welding Inspector | Welding Supervisor

I didn’t necessarily choose this profession; I was lucky enough for it to have chosen me. I had no idea what I was signing up for, but once I got a taste of it, I was hooked! Engineering contains such a vast number of diff erent fi elds within it, so there is something to learn every day. And you will never know everything … that’s the beauty of it.

I applied for a learnership programme through Sasol Synfuels and somehow managed to wiggle my way in. Our training was based at the South African Institute of Welding, where I studied various courses over 12 months, including quality Inspectors courses level I & II, non-destructive testing courses, and metallic ultrasonic and radiographic courses. I have also studied corrosion protection and undertaken in-depth studies of codes and specifi cations used in the industry. I have recently qualifi ed with the American Petroleum Institute as a specialised piping inspector and am currently busy specialising in tank inspection. Two years of practical training was also necessary to complete my studies, which luckily for me took place at Sasol Synfuels, one of the most unique plants in the world.

Welding inspection requires an enthusiasm to learn new things and rise to challenges. You need to have a solutions-based mindset. As with any career, getting along with peers is very important.

Experience is essential. As much as theoretical knowledge is good, the place to learn is in the fi eld. Older generations have such a wealth of knowledge to impart.

A typical day on the job includes a review of technical documents and drawings and extends to actual inspection for compliance onsite.

Every day there is something new to learn or a new perspective to gain. Mixing new technology with old knowledge is always exciting. Overseeing and endorsing a project from start to end is so satisfying.

The demands of long hours, and the areas we work in, which can be quite remote.

Being involved in some big projects like Sasol Temane in Mozambique, Kusile Power Project and now, the Anglo American Koketso Project with Hatch. TERSIA LISA BAKER

INSPECTOR OF PRESSURISED EQUIPMENT HATCH (CONSULTING ENGINEERING AND PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION SPECIALISTS)

To gain experience in all sectors of engineering (mining, petrochemical, power generation) and keep building my international qualifi cations.

Find a mentor! Find the right mentor willing to push your limits.

Technical. Challenging. (Quality) Driven.

I enjoyed Lego and using my hands to solve problems from a young age. A career in welding is therefore the perfect fi t for me as it’s a very hands-on job and helps with problem solving. I also get to stay active as I move around our company facilities, but also get some offi ce time – it’s the perfect balance for me.

I completed an International Institute of Welding (IIW) TIG and Electrode fi llet, plate and pipe course at the South African Institute of Welding (SAIW). After starting my career, I attained an International Welding Specialist Diploma, followed by an International Welding Inspector Diploma, and most recently, an International Welding Technologist Diploma.

Enjoying working with people helps to make work more of a pleasure than a pain/hardship.

Both work hand in hand. A degreed engineer can learn from a shopfl oor staff member and vice versa.

It starts with a ‘toolbox talk’ about a safety topic for the day. This is followed by a plant focus meeting, discussing breakdowns on the plant. The rest of the day includes a wide variety of activities and skills such as material procurement, overseeing welder qualifi cations, welding procedure qualifi cation, databook compilation, visual inspections, and quality document audits.

Getting the job done right and on time with zero harm to anyone.

Middle-of-the-night breakdowns on the odd occasion.

When I started, I was acknowledged as one of the youngest qualifi ed welders at the age of 15.

JUSTIN VAN WYK

WELDING SUPERVISOR NCP CHLORCHEM KEMPTON PARK

The road is long but wide and many paths can be taken for further specialisation. Hang in there and try to learn as much as you can.