Electrical engineering in Africa is massive, and the demand for electrical engineering professionals has been on the rise for quite some time now. Today’s interview with our candidate Sylvester Sibanda, who has been working in the electrical engineering field across Africa, talks about some of the industry challenges and provides other valuable must-knows.
What industry do you work in?
I work in the Mining Industry with vast experience in electrical engineering.
What are your strengths?
I would say plant maintenance is definitely a strength of mine.
What inspired you to get into this sort of industry?
Electrolysis when I was at school is what inspired me to get into this industry.
What is the most challenging aspect within your field of work?
Production personnel << want 100% plant availability.
How do you manage and overcome these challenges?
Communication is a two way thing so I aim to teach them to appreciate machine fatigue.
What has been the highlight of your career?
A highlight of my career thus far is when I re-programmed a Symadyn D controller without Siemens input
If somebody starts as a trainee / beginner within your line of work, what could they earn in salary?
Professionals in this field are earning a salary of roughly 1000 USD.
What can this person expect to earn after 10 years of experience?
Roughly 18000 USD.
What advice can you offer people who are in the same industry as you?
Technology advances everyday so it is important to read and update your knowledge as well as skills.
If you had to describe yourself in FIVE WORDS, what would they be?
- innovative
- sociable
- honesty
- adaptive
- open minded
Where in Africa have you worked before?
I have worked all over Africa; Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa and Zambia
As you know, numerous African countries are being invested in due to their rich minerals. Which country within Africa do you think will be the next hot spot and why?
My answer is the DRC because there is so much that has not been explored yet.
CA Global is a big believer in Africa, why do YOU believe in Africa?
Yes, Africa has a vast array of wealth that still needs to be exploited.
