Atlas Copco is adamant at mobilising a competitive, younger task force of local engineers

Atlas Copco, the Home of Industrial ideas is where opportunities are given to young professionals to gain exposure in various environments and industries. Thus, allowing them to expand their scope and identify where their interests in specialization lies. Take for example Tokelo Ramasodi, or TK as he is fondly known amongst his colleagues.  TK works as a service technician having previously graduated from the Belgium campus, alumni class 2018.  TK has spent four fulfilling years at Atlas Copco Industrial Technique having started out as an intern where he was given the opportunity to travel to East London where he got to acquire notable experience at a large global car manufacturing plant there.  “I will never forget my early days having started out as an intern.  Something as basic as creating a unique VIN number for a motor vehicle is complex and as fascinating as the unique design of a human thumb print.  I also learned that something as small as a bolt or screw isn’t given much thought until you learn the science behind its design,” he says.  

TK was afforded extensive opportunity to learn more about the automotive industry and its workings at the company.  “I’ve picked up electrical and mechanical skills along the way as I am most intrigued by these two specialised engineering fields in particular,” he says.  TK sees his career path moving into software development and is grateful that the company affords the learner the opportunity to create their own career path that isn’t dictated by a rigid management structure.  “I enjoy working for a company that guides and supports me along my career path as micromanagement has never historically grown anybody’s talent.  The leadership style displayed by the company has afforded me the opportunity to become the captain of my career,” he says.

“The truth is, humanity depends on engineering as a core function in order to advance into the future.  Engineers design necessary tools provided by science, that is combined with innovative thinking through which problems are solved and, new designs are manufactured for daily use,” says Glynnis Surrall, HR Systems Academy Manager at Atlas Copco.  “We offer an internship programme tailored to suit the needs of previously disadvantaged youth.    We have developed this with Atlas Copco’s core vision in mind.  This encompasses innovation, diversity and a dynamic approach to projects,” says Surrall.  It is crucial that we grow the country’s skills component in the industry in order to compete with counterpart countries such as Germany and Sweden.  It is incremental for the success of the nation both from an economic standpoint and, from a skills development viewpoint, she says.”

At present, TK is stationed at a prominent German car manufacturing plant in Rosslyn which means that, thanks to the global agreement, he is afforded the opportunity for further learning and growth through short term working opportunities at different branches globally.