How to grow your engineering career in Africa: The suited early profession improvement of engineering specialists is key to them accomplishing their potential and making a large contribution to their career improvement and to society. There are many challenges dealing with the latest graduate in their early work environment, not least of which is finding gainful employment to start with
On the fifth and ultimate day of Electra Mining Africa 2020 Connect the panel dialogue featured a number of engineering specialists who shared their experiences of early profession improvement and to offer insight, instruction and aid to these at this indispensable stage of their careers.
There is a large difference between educational work and practical experience, but it is a challenge that engineering college students have to be able to deal with. “In an environment where anybody is from a distinct background, teamwork s likely the most important factor to locate solutions for particular problems,” she said Professor Deborah Blaine, associate professor, mechanical and mechatronic engineering at Stellenbosch University.
Across all industries, organizations are expanding into Africa and taking advantage of emerging markets.
As a result, a multitude of career prospects are opening up as the demand for expat skills increases.
Below are some tips to help you grow your career in Africa:
Natural Resources and Agribusiness are primary sources of export revenue in South Africa, and foreign investment could contribute to a similar rise in export growth across other African countries.
Nic Siphon-Poultney, Country Manager (South Africa), says, “Try to identify the African countries where most of the growth related to your sector is happening. For example, Natural Resources and Agribusiness are primary sources of export revenue in South Africa, and foreign investment could contribute to a similar rise in export growth across other African countries.”
Pinpoint organizations that can offer you the right career
Nic adds, “Identify organizations that could potentially offer you the opportunity to explore a career in Africa. Great examples of these include project, consulting or construction houses. On the whole, jobs growth in Africa is centered around supply chain & logistics, FMCG, infrastructure development and business development/sales.”
Become culturally aware
Nic says, “Stay abreast of all the latest developments. Do your due diligence on the country you will be travelling to or living in, and ensure that you are aware of what challenges you may face when you get there. For example, prepare yourself for customs issues, or a lack of infrastructure”.
Consider contracting
Working in Africa is frequently offered on a 1 to 3 year contract basis, mostly due to the intense nature of the work and environment. Some roles may be offered on a permanent basis however, with the expectation that you will spend a significant amount of time travelling to other African countries.