As South Africa commemorates Youth Month, it’s important to shine a spotlight on the contributions made by talented young people in the technology and engineering sectors. At Yaskawa South Africa, young technicians are driving innovation.
Young graduates Mpho Maseko (left) and Tefo Malumane (right) recently joined Yaskawa South Africa.
Yaskawa South Africa has long recognised the potential of young technicians. Through development programmes, mentorship, and training, the company ensures that its workers are equipped with the skills and knowledge to excel in the sector. And this investment in youth is paying off, as demonstrated by the success stories of individuals like Mpho Maseko and Tefo Malumane.
Mpho Maseko, 25 years old and a recently employed Robotics Field Technician, joined Yaskawa South Africa with a background in Mechatronics Engineering. He has settled into the company well and sees his role as "a great fit for my skills and interests in mechatronics and robotics". A typical workday for him includes a mix of technical work, client interaction, and continual learning, a very valuable aspect of the job. He says: "The role is rewarding, offering opportunities to work with cutting-edge technology and make a significant impact on clients’ operations."
His advice to prospective technicians: "Focus on building a strong foundation in subjects like mathematics, physical science, and computer studies, as these are key for understanding advanced engineering concepts." Maseko adds, "Embrace the interdisciplinary nature of the field by gaining knowledge in mechanical, electrical, and electronics matters. Hands-on experience is invaluable, so engage in practical projects, participate in robotics competitions, and seek internships to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings."
Tefo Malumane, 29 years old and a Tshwane University of Technology graduate, says joining Yaskawa was the right career decision for him. "After doing research on the industrial robotics industry, I came across Yaskawa. I’d always been looking into specialising in either robotics or PLC programming. When Yaskawa offered me the opportunity to interview for the position, my interest grew, and when I was given the opportunity to tour their workspace and hear about the projects they have completed, I knew I was at the right place," he says.
Stories such as these reflect Yaskawa South Africa’s dedication to encouraging young talent. Providing opportunities for young people to grow and encouraging a culture of innovation, the company plays a role in shaping the future of technology and engineering in the region.
As South Africa celebrates Youth Month, it is important to recognise the value of supporting youth-focused initiatives. Yaskawa’s work demonstrates that investing in young professionals is not only a corporate responsibility, but also a strategic imperative that drives innovation and success. Nurturing the development of young talent, Yaskawa is setting a benchmark for other companies to follow.
For more information visit: www.yaskawa.co.za