WESTERN CAPE ISSUE 2015

Q’s and A’sI love learning something new Mico Standerabout the crops we work with, thenpackaging this information, and WHAT IS THE LEAST CAREER HIGHLIGHTSsharing it with my clients. Another ENJOYABLE DUTIES OF YOUR TO DATE?positive is the testing and application JOB?of new technology in agriculture. diagnosis and correcting the problemThere are so many new gadgets and Having to phone a client who has just and then watching the productions ingizmos on the market and seeing had a run in with the wrath of mother the orchard climb.your first correct application of a new nature. Hailstorms, floods and frost can 2nd place:technology is quite a rush. cause great damage to farmer’s crops. Being invited to the HORTGRO ScienceTHREE IMPORTANT QUALITIES There is very little one can do in these Symposium in 2015 to share myTHAT YOUR POSITION cases but to pick up what’s left and experience with drones and NDVIREQUIRES? wait for next year. It can be devastating. technology in the fruit industry with theTo be a consultant you have to be This is again another reason why it is leaders in the fruit industry.Precise, Logical and Practical. To be a so amazing to watch farmers at work, 1st place:brilliant consultant you also need they are never discouraged, they will Starting Agrimotion Consulting with aRespect, Humility and Grace. put their heads down and start getting team of likeminded, driven and grounded ready for the next season. They are truly friends.ADVICE FOR GRADE 11 & 12 the salt of the earth.LEARNERS CONSIDERING THISCAREER?Do as much job shadowing as you canbefore you start any degree or career.Read books, articles and anything elseyou can.TYPE OF PERSONALITY THATWOULD SUITE AND ENJOYTHIS KIND OF CAREER PATH?Love to learn. Love to innovate. Love tocalculate. Most personalities will find aspace in the agricultural sector. SCIENCE CAREERS SA ||

with Shaleen BikkaMAarqinueaMricirosbtiologistWhy did you choose What does your job into fish diseases, blood analysisthis career? entail? and treatments.I have always had an interest in I run the Quarantine Facility for As the Microbiologist I carry outScience and wanted a career in the uShaka Sea World Aquarium, diagnostic work on samples from allusing science as a career to make a all the fish come to Quarantine to the animals in our care eg; fish, turtles,difference in the world. undergo treatments and observation sharks, dolphins, penguins and seals. to ensure that they don’t carry any We test the hygiene of all the areasWhat training did you diseases. We also treat sick fish where animals are housed as wellundergo, and where? as well as stranded turtles. We as the quality of food they eat. All the undertake research pools that house animals are testedI have a Bachelor of Science degree for microbiological counts and loads.in Microbiology|70 SCIENCE CAREERS SA

What do you enjoy Advice for people Describe anmost? considering this career. average day.I enjoy seeing a stranded or sick Most people that I meet say; ‘When This is a very physicalanimal recover well enough to go I was young I wanted to be a Marine job and requires takingback to the Aquarium or the ocean. Biologist’ they often associate it with care of animals with dolphins and the beach and fun. It enormous attention toWhat are the most has howev er nothing to do with just detail. I have to monitorenjoyable aspects of having fun at the beach a marine behaviour and feedingyour position? science career is about conservation, as well as administer understanding animals and treatments as needed.Being a Senior Aquarist and Head willingness to get wet in salt waterMicrobiologist means that I lead two even on the coldest winter day. Taking care of strandedteams with a total of seven motivated animals is a verystaff members. I love motivating staff. Type of person that rewarding aspect of my job would enjoy this kind but it takes patience and1What is the least of career? dedication. We are like aenjoyable part of your trauma unit for fish, therejob? People who are not afraid to work is always something new with animals and in water. Someone to learn and do.It is very messy and I often smell like who constantly wants to learn and aa fish.. willingness to work long hours without Does the Industry (and being financially rewarded for the your type of position)Career highlights? extra hours worked. that you are in, face gender bias?The most memorable day for me was Potential for growth -the day we released rehabilitated Where can your current Males are considered physicallyturtles Kalua and India back to the postion lead? stronger than females and due toocean. the physical nature of handling If you have a Bachelor of Science animals, sometimes females cannotMy greatest accomplishment was degree so there is growth within the work without physical assistance.presenting my research findings on a Marine Conservation fields as well as Within my organisation we workbacteria I had isolated from the shell Aquaculture. as a team. There are numerousof Giant Spider Crabs which could female marine biologists who arepotentially cause disease. This was What challenges have pioneers and leaders in Marinepresented at the International Marine you had to overcome? conservation..Microbiology Conference 2015 inQuingdao, China. The main challenges I am facing in Is continuing my field of Fish Medicine is that it is education and further3 important qualities poorly researched compared to land studies important inthat your position animals. So many marine species your type of career?requires and parts of the ocean are hard to access which has resulted in the Yes it is always a bonus to upDedication, Patience and Accuracy. information being limited. If you need study within your chosen field. With to information you often have to look Marine Biology there is alwaysIn 1 sentence, describe beyond SA’s borders or develop room for research and experimentsyour job? research of your own by doing that can be undertaken as projects experiments. This is also what makesMy job can’t be called a job because it interesting. for additional qualifications. ■when you do something you love it isnot just a job it is my life. What qualifications do I need?Experience vs Training Any animal related Science DegreeI certainly think that experience is or Diploma can be useful in this field.key in this type of position. Handling Preferably a BSc in Marine Biologyanimals and getting a feel for theirbehaviour is not something you can What are your career goals?read in a book. It is a very hands-on I am content with my current positionpractical career; however a Science as although I am a Senior Aquaristor Conservation degree is essential and in management I am still handsfor a more thorough understanding on with animals in my care.of animals, water quality and theenvironment. |SCIENCE CAREERS SA 71

with Sulaiman JacobsPEentgrioneleerumWhy did you choose at PetroSA was spent as a graduate in amount of hydrocarbon (oil or gas)this career? training (GIT), the first ten months of the in place, to calculate the recovery graduate program is spent in a class room factor, and the determination of theI did not choose this career, it chose me. with 8 other graduates from all around time scale which the hydrocarbon canI met a young lady who works at PetroSA the country most of them geologists. be recovered in. Other duties includeand she was impressed by me when I said During this time we underwent a rigorous the optimisation of production orI was doing my MSc. in physics at UWC. training in geology, the oil industry injection wells in a cost effective andWe exchanged contact details. I received a and geotechnical aspects needed on the safe manner, using the appropriatephone call a few days later inviting me for job. As a reservoir engineer I have not technologies available to us, developan interview. At the interview I was told undergone any formal training, all the and facilitate well testing, ensuringthat if I am successful, due to my unique training is on the job or comes from equipment are operating correctly etc.skill set and qualification I would be well journal articles or textbooks.suited to be a petroleum engineer. Describe an average What exactly does day at work?What formal training your job entail?did you undergo, My day starts off with a meeting, whereand where? The primary role of a reservoir/ we dial in to the ORCA a Floating, petroleum engineer is to estimate the Production, Storage and OffloadingThe first two years of my employment|72 SCIENCE CAREERS SA



As a scientist I thought my time would be spent“ ”in a lab looking at solutions in a test tube …(FPSO) vessel. During the meeting What is the least Experience vs Training:operational issues are discussed, and enjoyable dutiesany challenges which may arise on the of your job? In Petroleum engineering lots of on the jobrig. At the moment I am working on learning takes place. It is very importanta project, where I am collating all the I do not think there are any unenjoyable to have a higher qualification and thedata pertaining to all the production aspects of being a junior engineer, I personality traits needed to be an engineer,and appraisal wells of the producing view every task as a new challenge and but it is not necessarily to have a petroleumfields in PetroSA’s offshore exploration opportunity to learn new skills and to engineering degree. The concepts andblock. The data is stored in an MS better equip myself for working in the theories of petroleum engineering canAccess data base which is read into industry. easily be picked up through constantspecialised software (OilField Manager, engagement with co-workers or throughOFM) allowing the petroleum engineers Career highlights to reading of literature and textbooks.to view the location of each well date?with all the connecting data, and to Advice for grade 11 & 12perform calculations allowing them to One of the things that stand out most learners consideringcompare and predict present and future so far is getting an opportunity to this career?production. This project takes up a huge go offshore. This entails flying in apart of my day as I am training myself helicopter and spending two weeks on Education is important, more importantlyin OFM and the theory of petroleum a rig in the middle of the ocean (thank math and science; our country is in needengineering concepts. God for internet and WhatsApp). I of mathematicians and scientists. Work went to the rig to witness and learn hard at school. The world is your oyster.Other aspects of my day involves about well testing. A new gas well was There are so many opportunities out thereattending meetings discussing just drilled and completed and the time just waiting for you to grab it. Never giveproduction performance of all the came to determine the potential that up on yourself, and if at first you do notoffshore assets owned by PetroSA the well could flow. Time on the rig succeed, stand up and try again. Pray dailyas well as helping out senior staff moves really slowly if you do not keep and ask your Lord to open up your pathmembers with whatever queries busy, luckily there is always food and and make it easy for you.and problems they may need cake in the galley.assistance with. Type of personality that PetroSA has a print magazine, yeza would suite and enjoyWhat do you enjoy sithetha, which comes out monthly, this kind of career path?most about your job? another great milestone for me was being featured in the magazine as a To be an engineer, one needs anThe most enjoyable part of working as a “model for all the GIT’s” this after inquisitive mind, always questioningpetroleum engineer is the opportunities I had my first peer reviewed journal how things work and why, with a largeit has afforded me. I have had to go on article published and I shared the great and powerful imagination. Importantoffshore survival training, I have flown news with one of my mentors. I have qualities a petroleum engineer shouldin a helicopter and I have spent time subsequently had another journal article develop include analytical skills,offshore, these are all things I never published, both articles stem from work creativity, mathematical and problemexpected to do. As a scientist I thought done on my MSc. solving skills. Anyone considering thismy time would be spent in a lab looking career should enjoy learning, as there areat solutions in a test tube … Three important always new and exciting developments in qualities that your the industry one can learn fromWhat are the most position requires:enjoyable aspects of Potential for growth -your current position Respect, always respect you superiors Where can your current and co-workers; Patience-be patient position lead?As a junior engineer I am senior with yourself and your superiors;enough to get important projects land Perseverance- 9/10 times you will not As a junior the potential for growth ison my desk, but junior enough to still work in job or position of something infinite. There are two streams possible,be afforded the opportunity to learn you studied. This makes the learning technical and managerial. I would preferwhile I work on them. I enjoy the curve so much steeper. It will not always to stay in a more technical and hands oncontinuous learning and growth which be easy, push through the tough times role as that is what I enjoy. And withinbeing a junior affords me. and enjoy the easier times. the next few years I hope to be a senior reservoir engineer on my way to becoming a principal reservoir engineer. ■ |SCIENCE CAREERS SA 73

Academy of Sound Engineering B.Sc. in Sound Engineering Technology [NQF Level 7] [SAQA ID: 92060] Focusing on the engineering science of sound. Equipment design Studio design System design Acoustics Computer programming Advanced IT Media networks for audio and video Advanced audio and video software applications Capturing and processing sound Advanced and surround sound mixing Audio Technology Qualifications Higher Certificate in Audio Technology. [NQF Level 5] [SAQA ID: 83488] Diploma in Audio Technology. [NQF Level 6] [SAQA ID: 88262] For more info contact us: [email protected] or 011 482 9200 Academy of Sound Engineering is accredited by the following bodies:International accreditation: AVID as a Pro School. Apple as an Authorized Training Centre for Education.South Africa: Council on Higher Education (HEQC Reference no: H/PR271/E001CAN, E003CAN, E005CAN).Academy of Sound Engineering (PTY) Ltd (ASE). [registration] 1997/008334/07 [VAT] 4760197717 [directors] Cristo Hat-tingh, Nick Matzukis, Timothy Kraft (MD). ASE is registered as a private higher education institution in terms of section 54(1)(c) of the Higher Education Act, 1997 (ActNo. 101 of 1997) and Regulation 16(4)(a) of the Regulations for the Registration of Private Higher Education Institutions 2002, to offer its registered programmes at thefollowing site of delivery: A. Johannesburg, Auckland Park (SABC) Premises. ASE is registered to offer the following programmes: (1) B.Sc. Sound Engineering Technol- ogy (2) Diploma in Sound Engineering (3) Higher Certificate in Audio Technology (4) Diploma in Audio Technology (5) Higher Certificate in Television and Screen Media (6) Diploma in Television and Screen Media. Registration certificate No. 2009/HE07/011

Q&AAUDIOVISUALTECHNICIAN HENRY RUDZANI MOKONEWHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS through the Academy in association with client’s needs is a very fulfilling part of theCAREER? Height Wise. job.I chose this career because of Cristo WHAT DOES YOUR JOB CAREER HIGHLIGHTSHattingh, one of the Top South African Live ENTAIL?Sound Engineers. I was doing my Matric I graduated as a Live Sound Engineer inin 2010 and at the same time working as I just joined a Company that specialises 2012 and have been involved in a numbera gardener for the Hattingh family, when I in Audio Visual doing installations, setup, of projects. Besides mixing on gigs as ahad a chat with Cristo. He told me about programming of Audio Visuals from simple freelance engineer, I have done some in-his professional life as a Sound Engineer. projectors to matrix video walls and video stallations I’m very proud of. I did the firstThis brought back the memories when we conferencing. I also do onsite service and Universal Music Recording Studio, a bigwere growing up in the rural areas, when equipment maintenance. From time to installation in Lagos - Nigeria for a 6000we used to make guitars out of cans and cut time I also do consultations on the audio seat church, installed a Recording Studiopaint buckets to make drums and jam like side of the business. in Angola, an Audio Visual installation forrock stars. Unfortunately we knew nothing a Oil Company in Accra - Ghana and cur-about recording, mixing and mastering. By DESCRIBE AN AVERAGE DAY. rently busy with a project in Rwanda. I havethe time we finished, I realised this is what also been involved with installations at theI want to be. In the morning I get job cards from the University of Tshwane, Johannesburg and sales director or the technical director. the Wits digital classrooms.WHAT TRAINING DID YOU Mostly these require attending to customerUNDERGO AND WHERE? service calls. Should there be an installa- 3 IMPORTANT QUALITIES tion scheduled for that day, we go out and THAT YOUR POSITIONI got the George Sr. Bursary in 2011 and install, setup, program and provide the in REQUIRES?did my Diploma at the Academy of Sound house training.Engineering in Johannesburg, with special 1. Positive attitude in everythingfocus on Live Production. I did Pro Tools WHAT ARE THE MOST 2. Hard work and team player101 up to 210V. The academy prepares you ENJOYABLE ASPECTS OF 3. Punctualityfor the industry very well. As a live sound YOUR POSITION?engineer, you’re equipped with extensive IN ONE SENTENCE DESCRIBEknowledge from simple things like solder- Assisting different clients, each with unique YOUR JOB.ing audio cables to Front of House band needs. Due to having done my sound en-mixing and Production Management. I gineering course and now working in the Interesting and challenging, giving mealso did my working at heights certificate audio visual industry, makes this interest- room to keep learning as technology ing. Being able to sort out most of the advances.|| SCIENCE CAREERS SA

Q&AEXPERIENCE VS TRAINING? the greatest tool is your ears. I remember struggling to cope with simple codes and“They say experience is the best teacher”, intervals during music classes. With hardbut in this industry I think only learning work and help from lectures, it becomethrough experience is not the best, as you easy. Clients can be difficult at times.may become content to do something ina particular way with little understand- WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO Iing why and the possible consequences. NEED?Getting formal training is in my opinion, theway to go. When you turn that knob, you You need a Matric certificate to enroll atknow for sure what your doing and what most training institutions.to expect. Through training one can easilydeal with questions that may be asked. WHAT ARE YOUR CAREER GOALS?ADVICE FOR PEOPLECONSIDERING THIS CAREER. I want to be a jack of all trades, to be a Production and/or Project manager.Study, Study and make yourself availablefor anything that comes your way. In other DOES THE INDUSTRY AND THEwords, get out there to volunteer while TYPE OF POSITION THAT YOUsurrounding yourself with people that can ARE IN, FACE GENDER BIAS?lead you positively. Not at all, the sky is the limit. In the earlyTYPES OF PEOPLE THAT stages of coming into the industry, you mayWOULD ENJOY THIS CAREER. require some muscular strength. When I started, I was a volunteer at Sound GP andAnyone with a passion and love for music. the task available was loading the truck butYou should also be patient, be prepared to later I got a chance to mix at a church andgo the extra mile and work hard. You must the rest is history. I went to Nigeria and thenot have a short temper. project Manager was a women. We are cur- rently busy on a hotel project in RwandaPOTENTIAL FOR GROWTH- and the Head of Audio Visual is a lady. DidWHERE CAN YOUR CAREER a Studio installation in Ghana and the re-POSITION LEAD? cording engineer owner is a lady. Allot of conference coordinators or Audio VisualThere is always room to grow in this in- Facilitators are women. I have seen allotdustry. With my current position, one can of ladies behind the mixing desk in Southmove up to be the designer of projects, Africa.as far as audio and visuals are concerned.You can also look at being the best live IS CONTINUING EDUCATIONmix engineer, get involved with Sales and AND FURTHER STUDIESDistribution, be a Project or Production IMPORTANT IN YOUR TYPE OFManager or even get involved as a lec- CAREER?turer. It’s not just a matter of installingspeakers and amplifiers as they need to 100% Yes! I’m currently studying Projectbe matched by considering the clients management and doing various productneeds, the target audience and volume courses that are available in the industry.issues that may arise. While I am not in the live events industry, when I hear of a new mixing desk on theWHAT CHALLENGERS HAVE market, I make sure I get some training.YOU HAD TO OVERCOME? You will never know what the future holds. If you keep on studying, you’ll be able toThe biggest was background. I had to train tackle what the industry throws at you.my ears big time. As a sound engineer, SCIENCE CAREERS SA ||

Q’s and A’sWEinnd TguribnineeerWHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS Boris WanschuraCAREER? is to manage and structure training related industry, people are passionate about greenI was born and lived my whole life in Germany. aspects, like meeting with key decision and sustainable ways of living in general.When I finished school with Abitur, which making people from industry, to better un- Helping our students to understand this newqualifies you to enrol at any university, I basi- derstand what the needs and requirements technology and how to install, maintain andcally had no idea what I wanted to do. I was for technicians of this new RE technology are operate it gives me great pleasure.very good at mathematics and physics, but and how I can address and tailor our trainingdidn’t want to miss out on the practical side modules to this. Additionally, I manage and WHAT ARE THE MOSTof it. That’s why I chose to study mechani- organize short courses and workshops for ENJOYABLE ASPECTS OFcal engineering at a University of applied people from the relevant industry. YOUR POSITION?sciences. DESCRIBE AN AVERAGE DAY. Working in a small team of professionals where WHAT TRAINING DID YOU decisions making processes are still quick and UNDERGO, AND WHERE? I usually start my day by checking my emails efficient, is great fun. I can bring in my own and calendar. I try to answer as many emails ideas and feel well respected in my team.I studied mechanical engineering at Kiel as possible and prepare for myself later meet-University of Applied Sciences in Germany. ings before I have my first cup of cappuccino WHAT IS THE LEASTMy first contact to the Renewable Energy with my colleagues. We would then typically ENJOYABLE PART OF YOUR(RE) industry was my last semester industry discuss what needs to be done or talk about JOB?project at one of the wind technology lead- RE industry related news. Back behind mying companies REpower Systems (today desk I research, develop and put together There is not much that I don’t enjoy in mySENVION). After working abroad in South new learning, teaching and training material job. I’m not that kind of person that wouldAfrica for a year in the heavy metal industry for our long and short term courses we offer work only to make a living. If things don’t gomade me realize I wanted to know more here at SARETEC. well for too long I would try to change themabout RE technology, especially wind driven or simply move on. You can only be good inenergy converters. I enrolled for a 2 year in- In the afternoon I sometimes have meet- what you are doing when you enjoy doing it.ternational Master of Science programme ings with people from the RE industry to The only thing I would like to change is thein Wind Engineering at Kiel/ Flensburg discuss topics around our training, or new way I commute to work. For time and safetyUniversity of Applied Sciences and success- ideas for the training facility. reasons I need to take my car. Back then infully graduated last year. Germany I enjoyed the organized, reliable WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST? and safe public transport.WHAT DOES YOUR JOB The cappuccino that our very fancy fullyENTAIL? automated German Miele coffee machine CAREER HIGHLIGHTS? produces! Besides that, I enjoy working withI develop and review the teaching, training like-minded people. Especially in the RE My current position at the new South Africanand learning material for the occupational Renewable Energy Technology Centrecertificate of the Wind Turbine/ Solar PVService Technician course at SARETEC.Besides that, one of my main responsibilities|| SCIENCE CAREERS SA

Q’s and A’s(SARETEC). Developing and shaping the TYPE OF PERSON THAT passport. You got to play by the rules and befirst recognized qualification to become a WOULD ENJOY THIS KIND OF patient. Career wise, being a first and secondWind Turbine Service Technician is a unique CAREER? time dad while you are busy finishing youropportunity. master’s degree and trying to find a job was In this particular field as a Wind Turbine probably one of the best experiences in my3 IMPORTANT QUALITIES Engineer or Service Technician you have to life, although the most challenging.THAT YOUR POSITION have many skills. You must be fit for climbingREQUIRES up 100 meter wind turbine towers; a service WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I lift is not always available. You have to be NEED?First, you need a good understanding of how able to understand mechanical and electricalelectrical and mechanical components of this components of the system when operating, The Master of Science degree in Windnew RE technology work. Second, you have to servicing or performing fault-finding. You Engineering is an international study pro-feel comfortable to speak in front of students also might be ending up fixing damaged gramme held in Kiel and Flensburg in Northand last, you have to be passionate about what wind turbine blades in 50-100 meter heights, Germany. The programme is open to inter-you teaching. Only then, you will succeed. which requires knowledge on how to handle national students, having finished a 4-year and repair composite materials. You got to be Bachelor of Engineering programme. ThereIN 1 SENTENCE, DESCRIBE an “all-rounder”. are many study programmes offered aroundYOUR JOB? the globe and even here in South Africa, to POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH - become involved with RE technology. If youIn my job I develop the necessary theoreti- WHERE CAN YOUR CURRENT want to become a Wind Turbine Servicecal and most important practical training for POSITION LEAD? Technician, you should have at least one theWind Turbine and Solar Photovoltaic Service following trades: Electrician / Mechatronics /Technicians to get them 100% ready for the I foresee a huge demand for engineers and Millwright / Fitters and Turners / NDip Mechwork they have to perform on site, some- technicians for RE technologies. With the / Electrical / Mechanical with +/- 3 yearstimes in 100 meters height. DoE’s current Renewable Energy Independent Experience or applicable Power Producer Procurement ProgrammeEXPERIENCE VS. TRAINING (REIPPPP) that started 2011, a total of 6327 WHAT ARE YOUR CAREER MW capacity in four and a half rounds of com- GOALS?Nothing in the world beats professional work petitive bidding has been awarded, of whichexperience; doing hands-on work shows if about 1709 MW is already connected to the Becoming a technical expert for wind turbineyou really understand what you are doing. grid and feeding in much needed electricity. and solar technology.But proper work planning and understand- The minister of Energy has even made a newing what is behind the technology requires determination of additional 6300 MW capac- IS CONTINUING EDUCATIONclass-room training and reading books. In my ity for RE technology. AND FURTHER STUDIESexperience, the best solution is a mix of both, IMPORTANT IN YOUR TYPE OFlearning in class and being able to apply it in WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE CAREER?the workshop straight away. This is our con- YOU HAD TO OVERCOME?cept here at SARETEC. “Chalk & Talk” is easy Yes, it is very important as an engineer toto do, but it is the practical exercises in our Being a foreign national in this county is keep up to date with the technology andworkshop that adds value to our courses and surely not easy. There is a lot of paperwork refresh your basic knowledge in terms of en-will give the student confidence to perform required to get the right stamp in your gineering principles.good work on site. ADVICE FOR PEOPLE CONSIDERING THIS CAREER.Working in the field of RE energy technologyis a lot of fun. You need to think “green” andsometimes I see myself as an “ambassador”for RE when convincing the people aroundme how much sense these new technologiesmake and how fortunate the people of SouthAfrica are with the countries abundanceof wind and sun resource. A Wind TurbineEngineer or Service Technician has to havemany talents. SCIENCE CAREERS SA ||

with Cecil FelixMSactiehnecmeatteicacsh&erWhy did you choose What does your When your learners just come andthis career? job entail? surprise you. Whether it be their marks you’ve never expected, a sweet orAt first I wanted to study Theology My work entails educating children, apple on your table not knowing whoto please my father but soon empowering children, developing put it there or when the learners dorealized that this was not for me. children to become responsible exceptionally well or they just say thankI received a bursary to study people who can take their place in you or when you see your learnersTeaching at our local college in society. Shaping their young minds succeeding in life. I am a primaryWorcester and took the opportunity. and encouraging them to follow school teacher usually learners willI always wanted to be involved in their dreams and goals. Developing forget you when they finish high schoolworking with the community and them socially, emotionally, physically, or go to university yet there are thoseworking with people this was my mentally, psychologically so that they learners that will come back and lookopportunity. As it was teaching I can equip themselves to cope with the how you are doing.was willing to give it a chance. challenges they going to face in their future life and the real world. Four years ago there where this learnerWhat training did you in my science club he was not the bestundergo, and where? What do you enjoy most? in science but willing to learn. He was so eager I made him team leader. WeI Studied four years at Söhnge You ever heard that saying in The -A- had the yearly science competitionCollege of Education where I Team “I love it when a plan comes which we won that year. This year he iscompleted my Diploma in Education together “? matric specializing in physics, and otherand one year after that my Higher sciences. These moments are priceless.Diploma in Education. A few years He started his own little science group.past and I realized I needed furtherdevelopment to do more. I continued This is what makes it worthwhile. Theremy studies at the University of the are so many examples too many toWestern Cape where I completed my tell. It’s priceless when they enter yourB.Ed. (Honor’s) degree. classroom full of life and so young and you meet them again when theirTeaching is one of those careers children are in your classroom. That iswhere change comes quickly and what makes teaching so different fromyou as a teacher must be able to any other career.work through the changes and equipyourself to cope with these changes. What is the leastIn order to be fully equipped I enjoyable partattended workshops, of your job?seminars presentedby the WCED as Unfortunately youwell as courses will at some stageoutside the WCED. experience where|76 SCIENCE CAREERS SA

you do not get the support from parents Type of person that wouldwhen you want to help learners and enjoy this kind of career?you don’t get the parents involvement.They just do not care .This is what The type of person consideringupsets me the most. teaching should be very passionate about teaching. You must love whatYou certainly will have your share of you do, working with all different typesdisciplinary problems and coping with people and the ways that people think.it in productive ways and mechanisms Remember everyone will not always.Remember the people setting up our agree with you. You must be assertivepolicies are not teacher’s and do not within the rules. Always be on top of yourrealize the consequences of each field. Learners will challenge you to seedecision they make. how much you know. Always be willing to learn from others.3 important qualities that What challenges have Cecil Felixyour position requires? you had to overcome? “The typeYou must be able to take leadership, The first two years of my teachingadapt, and be a hard worker. experience was the most difficult. I was of person teaching at a High School with learners consideringIn 1 sentence, almost as old as I was. The help I gotdescribe your job? was at a minimum but I made sure that I teaching had help from a few older teachers in my should be veryThe greatest , innovative , challenging home town. Had to travel 70km to school, fast changing, hardworking job every day and 70km back with the little passionatebecause you are creating lawyers, SGB salary I got. At that stage it was not aboutdoctors , entrepreneurs, ministers, about the money I believed in gainingprofessors , policemen , and even the most teaching experience I could get ”teachingpresidents for the future of our country. to apply for any contract or permanent post. During that time I lost my sister andExperience vs Training? mother due to illness. I decided to board at a colleague’s house.In teaching you can be qualified andhave the highest qualification but if you My luck changed in my fourth yearhave not taught you still have nothing. where I got a one year contract in my home town. I worked as hard as I couldWorking with those young minds is a to prove myself making myself availablecompletely different story; every day for all activities and committees at theis a learning curve. I am teaching for school. Ten years back I was appointedfifteen years and the most I have learnt permanently at this school.was in the first seven to ten years.I have started to settle in always What qualificationsequipping myself within my career. do I need?Learning from my colleagues -teachingskills, handling discipline, school You need a B.Ed. degree or Diploma infinances and the list is endless. EducationAdvice for grade 11 and Is continuing12 learners considering education and furtherthis career? studies important in your type of career?Teaching is not for everybody. Youmust have passion, leadership, It is very important. Education changesassertive abilities but also at the same every day the learners change, policiestime be subtle and understanding to the change, technology changes evenfact that each learner you are working history changes, science changeswith is different. therefore you must always update yourself in terms of being a teacher. ■ |SCIENCE CAREERS SA 77

with thomas bardillIT ManagerWhy did you choose this career? What do you enjoy most?I always had an interest in computers. My father I enjoy visually seeing how IT can be a businessand I used to program computer games. We used to enabler. From strategizing and implementing solutionsdisassemble old computers thereafter rebuild them to that make it possible for the entire organisation tosee if they would work. I would literally rush home from operate. Seeing how our internal staff operates theirschool just to work on computers that my dad and I computers, Internet mobility and knowing that IT madeowned. I would safely say my love for computers comes it all possible, those are some of the joys that come withfrom my dad’s love for fixing anything that was broken the kind of work we do. We bring life into the work place.around the house. What is the least enjoyable partWhat training did you undergo, of your job?and where? I don’t like reactive IT issues, what I mean by that is –B-Com in Information Technology at University of Cape when a problem occurs and I wasn’t able to foresee itTown. I then completed my BA (Hons) in Information before it would actually happened resulting in a lot ofTechnology at Cape Peninsula University of technology. chaotic rush and confusion. Sometimes systems will fail, and no one in the organisation would be able to work.Describe an average day? That is when you need to apply your thinking hat.A typical day would be dealing with one or 3 important qualities that yourtwo technical glitches and ensuring that our IT position requires:infrastructure is in alignment. If there are no issues, Inormally try to keep up to date with the industry norms, Passion is the most important one; you have to lovenew technologies and solutions. I would potentially what you do. IT is forever evolving and progressing, yourecognise solutions that will better enable our working constantly need to keep yourself up to date with newstructure for now and the near future. technologies, new techniques and ways of doing things. Two: - You need to be able to communicate. Three: - Patience and tolerance, we normally work with non-technical people and it takes a great deal of patience to understand why systems are not working and why it takes time to get them fixed. In 1 sentence, describe your job? Managing and over-seeing all IT infrastructure and IT services. Experience vs Training In IT would be 50/50 there are things that only experience can teach you especially from a practical point of view. One needs to understand that problems occur at any-time, how I go about diagnosis…. such occasions you learn via training. With that said certification is very important, you need a university degree to be employable.|80 SCIENCE CAREERS SA

So it is a good balance between getting yourself certified Thomas Bardilland getting proper training and experience. “ I would literallyAdvice for grade 11 and 12 learnersconsidering this career? rush home from school just to work onIf you can answer YES to all of the below questions, thenyou know you should be in IT. Do I love computers? Do I ”computers that my dadhave the patience to fix things when they are broken? AmI curious and constantly searching for new technologies to and I owned.better the current situation? industry even though there is an increasing number ofType of person that would enjoy this women whom occupy managerial positions and holdkind of career? prominent positions. When I was still at university there was a 70/ 30 ratio but there seems to be an encouragingInquisitive and curious individuals whom are transformation in women engaging in technology andconstantly seeking new solutions. IT is about merging infrastructure.all departments, providing solutions to the financedepartment, marketing, payroll, essentially the Is continuing education and furtherorganisation as a whole. studies important in your type of career?Potential for growth - Where canyour current position lead? Most definitely, IT is forever evolving, introducing new technologies, techniques and methods. Everything weBeing appointed as a CIO (Chief Information Officer) learn today might not be applicable in five years to come.which is an executive job title commonly given to You need to keep on educating yourself, progressinga person at an enterprise in charge of information and improving on your certifications, learntechnology (IT) strategy and the computer systems about new solutions, get educated, getrequired to support an enterprise objectives andgoals. This position would normally be in big corporate experience and keep up to date. ■companies or bigger organisations. Where they havevaries IT managers within the same division. i.e. ITTechnical Manager, IT Systems Manager, Sab Managerall working and reporting to the CIO.What qualifications do I need?A degree in Information Technology or a degree inComputer Science. If you have a specific interest inlearning Microsoft courses, you can get a MCSE Microsoftcertification or maybe your interest lies in networking youcan get a CompTIA N+ or A+ certificationDoes the Industry (and your typeof position) that you are in, facegender bias?Yes I would say IT is still very much a male dominated |SCIENCE CAREERS SA 81

Q&AAntarcticEngineerat SANAE IV, Team S53WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS Cornelia OberholzerCAREER? cold weather gear and head outside to go the base to do to wile away the hours, I stillI’ve always enjoyed solving problems and resolve the problem. ended up missing the things I couldn’t have.learning new things, so pursuing a career Things like a hug from a loved one at home, aas an engineer was a good choice for me. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY slice of watermelon or watching a new movieI’m a fan of strange and interesting facts, MOST ABOUT YOUR TIME IN at the cinema.something that often comes in handy as an ANTARCTICA?engineer. CAREER HIGHLIGHTS TO DATE? The unique opportunity to spend a yearWHAT FORMAL TRAINING DID in Antarctica with nine other mildly crazy One of the joys of being an engineer is thatYOU UNDERGO, AND WHERE? people. Living in such close proximity and you get to follow your passions as they devel- needing to work as a strong team to get op. So far my highlights have been obtainingI studied Electrical and Electronic Engineering, things done means that you learn so much my Certificated Engineer qualification whileand Information Technology at the University about yourself and others. Spending a year in working in the mining industry, spending anof Johannesburg. While the IT component the coldest, windiest, driest, least populated amazing year in Antarctica, and following mywasn’t strictly necessary for my job, it really and most remote continent on the planet is passion to start a new career as a Renewablecomes in handy as computer systems are part truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Energy Engineer.of everything these days. WHAT ARE THE MOST 3 IMPORTANT QUALITIESWHAT EXACTLY DID YOUR ENJOYABLE ASPECTS OF THAT YOUR POSITIONJOB ENTAIL WORKING IN YOUR TIME IN ANTARCTICA? REQUIRES?ANTARCTICA? The crunch of the snow under my feet when I A passion for knowledge, an interest in solv-I was selected to be part of a team of ten South ventured out to fix one of the instruments and ing problems and dedicationAfricans to spend 14 months in Antarctica for watching the spectacular auroras (southernresearch purposes. There are several ongo- lights) illuminate the night sky. I also enjoyed WHAT DO YOU FEEL ISing space science experiments at the South the team dynamics and learning new skills. MORE IMPORTANT IN YOURAfrican Antarctic base and I was responsible PROFESSION EXPERIENCE ORfor ensuring that the instruments remained WHAT IS THE LEAST TRAINING?operational and transmitted the valuable ENJOYABLE PART OFdata to the scientists based in South Africa. WORKING IN ANTARCTICA? You require the training to get started, but your future career growth is dependent onDESCRIBE AN AVERAGE DAY People are strange; we want things we can’t the professional experience you obtain dur-AT WORK? have. So whilst there were a million things at ing your career.When all the scientific instruments are work-ing well, you spend most of your time insidethe base improving the current systems inplace, but if one of the instruments stopsworking properly then you get kitted in your|| SCIENCE CAREERS SA

Q&AADVICE FOR GRADE 11 & 12LEARNERS CONSIDERING THISCAREER?Just do it!TYPE OF PERSONALITY THATWOULD SUITE AND ENJOYTHIS KIND OF CAREER PATH?It suites all personality types, as the field isvery diverse and you get to find your ownniche.POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH -WHERE CAN YOUR CURRENTPOSITION LEAD?It was a 14 month contract position, so thejob itself does not offer much growth, butit provided me with valuable experience forfuture positions. SCIENCE CAREERS SA ||

with Jean StemmetDirector of Rugby Sports Science Jean Stemmet|90 SCIENCE CAREERS SA

Play the sport for the passion, the A team“ does not matter. You learn the most from ”yourself when nobody rates you!Why did you choose organizing rugby days, various Career highlights tothis career? rugby games, trials and to give date? these boys the opportunity to testI retired from professional rugby their skills against “big schools” in Won interschool against Northernin 2013, and took a career in South Africa. Cape past 2years. 2014 -2015Rugby coaching. DiamantveldHigh School gave me an Describe an average Draw against Grey College 34 – 34opportunity to coach the 1st XV day at work?and be the Director of Rugby 11 Cravenweek u/18 Griquaat the School. I have a passion Pre –season players – 2015for coaching and to develop 04h15 – Alarmyoung schoolboys with the right 04h45 – Open Gym Waterkloof Prestige 7’sattitude, discipline and faith. 05h00 – Squad Training 1st XV Champs 2014I can share everything that I Squadhave been taught in my rugby 06h30 – Office important qualitiescareer with these youngsters. 07h00 – 13h30 Admin (Physio, that your positionCoaching also taught me a lot of doctors, organizing rugby games requires?how to approach and work with , sports days)different types of people and their 14h00 – U/14A Field session Discipline, Character and Faithpersonalities. 15h00 – U/15A Field Session 16h00 – 18h00 – 1st XV Field Experience vs Training:What formal training sessiondid you undergo, 20h00 – 21h00 – Preparing for You need to wear the jerseyand where? next day (practice preparation) before you hand it over, TrainingThe experience from my playing What do you enjoy Advice for gradedays gave me all the training most about your job? 11 & 12 learnersI needed. Also in my playing consideringdays I started the Gemsbok Kidz When the teams walk off the field this career?rugby development program for after a game and the smiles andyoungsters between the ages chats. Play the sport with passion; Being6 – 13 years which also prepared part of the A team does not matter;me for the big coaching job of Tours with the scholars to Because you learn the most fromDirector of Rugby. I have also various other schools are also yourself when nobody rates you!studied Marketing at Northlink on the list.TVET College that helped me Type of personalityto spread the word of Gemsbok What are the most that would suiteKidz and taught me the manner enjoyable aspects and enjoy this kindof how I not only approach but of your current of career path?work with possible sponsors from position?the private sector. Someone who believes in To give normal school boys great themselves; Is creative/differentWhat exactly does opportunities; to see them develop in their approach; Willing to takeyour job entail? to the next level not only in their constructive criticism and able ruby but personal lives too. to handle pressureI am the Director of RugbyDiamantveld High School. What is the least Potential for growth enjoyable duties - Where can yourI am responsible for every rugby of your job? current positionplayer in our school and to lead?develop and create opportunities The pressure when the team isfor every school boy to play by not performing that brings with “Big school” rugby it public criticism. structures; Provincial Rugby structures and Springbok Structure. ■ |SCIENCE CAREERS SA 91

Q&ALaserPhysicist WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS WHAT EXACTLY DOES YOUR creating and interpreting unique CAREER? JOB ENTAIL? phenomena are (in my opinion) the foremost reasons why science hasEver since I can remember, I had this As a lecturer at Stellenbosch University, propelled our world into an era filledyearning to attempt to make sense of we typically have three primary with amazing modern technologies.the inherent awe inspiring complexities functions. The first is to educate theof the natural world. This yearning in bright minds of the future in the form WHAT ARE THE MOSTmy case was fulfilled in the context of a of lecturing, mentoring and supervising. ENJOYABLE ASPECTS OFcareer path in Physics. Second is to conduct relevant research YOUR CURRENT POSITION? that will positively influence our world.WHAT FORMAL TRAINING DID Thirdly is to interact with the community My current position affords me theYOU UNDERGO, AND WHERE? at large. opportunity to conduct my research in a constructive environment where freeTo become a physicist (scientist who DESCRIBE AN AVERAGE DAY thinking and innovation is encouraged.specialises in physics) one generally AT WORK. I especially enjoy the interaction withrequires an extensive academic people and the interesting researchbackground. My academic career On an average day I interact mostly with projects.started in January 2002 at Stellenbosch students. The interaction entails formalUniversity. I was fortunate enough lectures and supervision of postgraduate WHAT ARE THE LEASTto complete my undergraduate (BSc) projects. I also prepare my lectures on ENJOYABLE DUTIES OF YOURdegree as well as my postgraduate a daily basis and if time permits I plan JOB?(Hons BSc, MSc and PhD) degrees at experiments to investigate interestingStellenbosch. This gave me a perfect properties of novel materials. Overall, I’m satisfied with everyplatform to establish myself in my chosen aspect of my job. The least enjoyablecareer path. In addition to my formal WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST duty however, is the infrequentacademic training at Stellenbosch, I ABOUT YOUR JOB? inordinate amount of administration.also went abroad for a Post- Doctoral This sometimes hinders my abilityResearch fellowship to broaden my own In my chosen career path, the joy of to focus on my strengths; being thelevel of expertise. discovering something new is its own interaction with our student cohort reward. Observing, understanding,|| SCIENCE CAREERS SA

Q&A Dr. Gurthwin Bosmanand colleagues as well as conducting Effective communication underpins the conclusion is correct. This is because in amy scientific research. ability to convey a message in a concise scientific based career every statement manner which is easily understood. This made or conclusion drawn should be CAREER HIGHLIGHTS TO can be on any platform, be it textual and able to stand on its own merit. DATE? or verbal. Creativity: It is often the case that I am confronted with a problem TYPE OF PERSONALITY THATIn my short academic career I have which can only be solved through out of WOULD SUITE AND ENJOYbeen privileged to receive the Meiring the box thinking. THIS KIND OF CAREER PATH?Naudé medal for best (honours)graduate student, as well as the John This career path is (according to me),Todd Morrison Research Medal for EXPERIENCE VS TRAINING? well suited for individuals that arebest MSc student in Physics. I was also As an educator I am required to have independent, original and determined.nominated by the Executive Council of extensive subject knowledge; whilst the The person should also value knowledgethe South African Institute of Physics ability to transfer this knowledge comes highly, and in general have very highto attend the prestigious Annual with experience. This means that both standards for their own performanceMeetings with Nobel Laureates in experience and training/education is of and the performance of others.Lindau, Germany. At this event I had the utmost importance in my chosenthe opportunity to rub shoulders with career path. POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH -the great minds of our time. WHERE CAN YOUR CURRENT ADVICE FOR GRADE 11 & 12 POSITION LEAD?THREE IMPORTANT QUALITIES LEARNERS CONSIDERING THISTHAT YOUR POSITION CAREER. The natural progression of my currentREQUIRES? position would be towards a senior Question everything and take risks; lecturer appointment followedPositive Attitude: In the research and do not leave a stone unturned in your by an associate professorship andeducation environment things don’t pursuit of knowledge. You should also subsequently a full professorship. This isalways go according to plan. To stay take time to reflect on what it is that a very general description of academicdetermined, one has to identify the you think you know and to try and advancement and differs for eachpositives in any failure. Communication: test whether your thought process or candidate. SCIENCE CAREERS SA ||

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cwettairutcehrksinelsegaodrmtcbhheyfosprooworfawrohfnttiadnimywcduhioaenvctrh.athepiIaoen.rasrnocAmnegssodrytaasamtpnemodmEphsiansirtxgoug,gphdtsreolauayormncdiatIdeudiaosnavttnpeeacteendesenctsvievndtsdiugraTodanrnnelaoemdnitwntea,nuinttogams 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cArneassmfayomsrpteaoinmdsgtvsaga,nrnsaocddeItudseapastteneoWeinndsndgtfhauaujndyaoteleoowotnmtyto,aaaufIt’merbrdelpetoahsiyaosneionfpuodytmoerrRsidueocoerolbrftfs,noityesotto?lidcrue.saInwnlelyotehrdulednb,gdateeocnrksdegtirarfaofneludrMneAcWsendooctdomkiharnvnatekoetisrwhocialneeriddcdsge,feprouirt nigNbEnpngueolgteatniIatndteobteeheaenprllriliieli.bgnTvsehigheatceisstsh?aswsitsturihlidlseeepdnenruetyredboo.tauomseiinnftoaernrbtipnehMtrilsatiyeesets,dmclnil.hoseaAoamcldtnenttuu,iiyncoaeaoallnntcoetalyiwpnmatietbharielltiehtsy,te,banruniogtdthIttboelieved to produce journaIlraenadlly love beingcionnvcoelpvtesd, biunt you certainly anreene’tdvetoryand sticbkiatos. iAt.nTyohneerewiwthillthbeeright inteclolemctmuaitlment can make itnce papers to show cmuyttrinesgeaerdcghetoreseeuaxsrepcfheur,lieeunsncpteiel. ycoiaullhyaivne real-wotroldugh aloncagacpatdahebemiliwticyarayen,sdebaucrotcmhD.mOiNtm’Tent cainnmaackaediet minic ■demic world. times research. |S C I E N C E C A R E E R S S A 0 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Q&A Violet Sibongile ChabalalaWHY DID YOU CHOOSE felt I needed some workplace experience DESCRIBE AN AVERAGE DAY ATTHIS CAREER? to broaden my capacity within my chosen WORK? career before continuing with my studies.From Primary school, I have always been fas- Through an NRF 1 year internship pro- There are two types of days: 1. In thecinated by Natural Sciences and always had gramme I have been hosted by the South office and the 2. Outsidea passion for people. I wanted to know how African National Space Agency (SANSA) 1. Preparation for career fairs, exhibitions,people benefit from the Natural Sciences,so growing up in an under-privileged back- WHAT EXACTLY DOES workshops or visits to schools and vis-ground I used the opportunity of attending YOUR JOB ENTAIL? its from the general public and schoolsscience fairs and festivals in high school to to our facilities weeks before. After thediscover which career would be suitable The primary role of the science ad- events, we write a report on the activitiesto explore my passion and I ended up de- vancement unit is to provide science that took place.ciding to study Environmental Sciences communication services to the youth and 2. Depending on the kind of events takingand have never looked back ever since. the general public. The nature of this posi- place, we give presentations and haveDuring my University studies, I discovered tion requires that I know all the work done one on one interaction with the youththere was so much more to Environmental by all the units within the Earth Observation and the general public.Sciences than I ever thought and that is directorate and the basic idea of what allwhere I developed my love for space sci- the SANSA directorates do. WHAT DO YOU ENJOYences; particularly GIS and remote sensing MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? This background combined with my uni- WHAT FORMAL TRAINING versity training allows me to add value It is very challenging and unpredictable. DID YOU UNDERGO, AND to the public understanding of space Not only are you sharing information about WHERE? sciences and technology, and through what you know in space sciences, you also hosting learners in the FET level and also get to learn something new every day andI went to Musa High school in KwaMhlanga, visiting their schools, we help them con- you always have something to research on.a small town in Mpumalanga province nect the theoretical components of their It is a very dynamic job.where I took Mathematics, Physical Science, Technology and Mathematics toSciences, Life Sciences and Agricultural the practical applications in the real world, WHAT ARE THE MOSTSciences as my major subjects. I then went encouraging and inspiring them to follow ENJOYABLE ASPECTS OFto the University of the Witwatersrand, a career in Science. I am also involved in YOUR CURRENTwhere I studied a BSc majoring in developing GIS and remote sensing tutori- POSITION?Geography, Ecology, Environment and als for high school learners and universityConservation and later a BSc honours with students. What I enjoy most is getting to meet differ-my major chosen courses in Global Change, ent people with different world views, thereEthno-ecology, GIS and Remote Sensing. I are so many things that inspire me about the young people we interact with; from the in- terest they always show in space sciences to|| SCIENCE CAREERS SA

Q&Athe critical questions they ask, I also enjoy activities that were to take place in one of to discuss interesting discoveries within thediscovering things I never knew before in the provinces we went to. space sciences.space sciences through my colleagues, re-search and the people we interact with. Another highlight was when I got in- Patience and Flexibility- Be patient with volved in the NSW presentations, and was yourself. When you start off, everything you WHAT IS THE LEAST great learning experience for me. learn will be overwhelming, sometimes you ENJOYABLE DUTIES OF will find that you do not have all the answers YOUR JOB? 3 IMPORTANT to everything in the industry and that is a QUALITIES THAT YOUR very good opportunity for learning. LearningI love every aspect of my job; however POSITION REQUIRES? never ever stops and always be prepared tosometimes the fatigue from too much be stretched beyond your imagination.time spent on the road leads to one hav- An inquisitive mind- Always questioninging to take time off to recover and this is a why things work the way they do and why WHAT DO YOU FEEL ISmissed opportunity to maximize a learning things have to be done the way they are. If MORE IMPORTANT IN YOURprocess. there is any other more effective way things PROFESSION EXPERIENCE can be done. Let your imagination run wild. OR TRAINING?CAREER HIGHLIGHTS TO DATE? Respectful– Always respect every single One cannot have experience without train-My Career highlight was when I did my very person you have an encounter with; whether ing. I feel it’s very important to first have thefirst interview with a radio station, talking it being your superiors or colleagues. There training, which will give you the confidenceabout the National Science Week (NSW) is always a lot that you could learn from to practice what you have been trained to do, any person and there is always a platform and with time you will have the experience. ADVICE FOR GRADE 11 & 12 LEARNERS CONSIDERING THIS CAREER? Take as much time as possible trying to discover what is it that you are passion- ate about, and if you have discovered it already; look for people who are already within the industry for motivation, look at their strategies of engaging with different audiences and get a clear understanding of what they do and different aspect to it before going to University, so that you are sure of the industry you are going into and you are aware of the opportunities of growth with the end goal in mind. POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH - WHERE CAN YOUR CURRENT POSITION LEAD? The potential of growth is enormous. As an individual with multiple interests I could lit- erally explore any of my interest within the earth observation directorate; opportunities available vary from Remote Sensing Scientist, or Environmental Sciences researcher with a GIS component. I however currently have a burning interest in the role that earth obser- vation satellites play in addressing climate change and sustainable development chal- lenges and the benefits that society derives from studies looking into these challenges. SCIENCE CAREERS SA ||

West CoastAbout the West Coast km north of Cape Town, 10 km inland Dr Hendey’s research has beenFossil Park from Saldanha Bay. At the start of the continued by both local and international spring tourist season, visitors flock to scientists and what this research has• It is situated in a rehabilitated the area to see the wild flowers. revealed is truly remarkable: 100 species phosphate mining area covering of mammals including: 716 ha History of the Fossil Park • a bear• The Fossil Park is one of the The Fossil Park lies in an area that • three species of elephants few fossil sites in the world that is thought to have been the estuary • a giant pig allow for in situ viewing of fossil of the ancient Berg River 5million • short-necked giraffes remains. Along with the “Cradle of years ago. At that time the remains • at least 87 species of birds, Humankind” site at Sterkfontein of over 280 species of animals that in Gauteng, the Fossil Park lived around the estuary were buried including four species of penguin, forms part of a growing interest and preserved in the channel and three species of parrots four in palaeo-tourism in South floodplain sediments. Over time they species of owl, a woodpecker and Africa. The Park is comparable became fossilized. Eventually, the a mousebird to international palaeontological sea level dropped to present levels sites such as Riversleigh in and the coastline migrated seaward • 15 species of frogs Australia, the Ashfall Fossil Beds leaving the site of the ancient estuary • 8 species of reptiles in Nebraska, the La Brea Tarpits about 10 km inland, in the area now in Los Angeles, and The Dinosaur known as Langebaanweg. National Monument in Utah, USA. In the 1950s, the Chemfos mining• There are no sites in South Africa company started mining phosphate at that can compare to the Fossil Langebaanweg and in 1958 scientists Park with respect to abundance, were alerted to the first fossil remains age or species richness of fossils. that were discovered. Research on these remains was initiated by Prof• We are the ancient home of the Ronald Singer from UCT Medical Fossil Big Six School. Thereafter, expansion of the mining activities in the 1960’s• The fossil Park is one of the richest exposed huge deposits of fossils and Fossil Sites in the world because the South African Museum, under the we have the fossilized remains of leadership of Dr Brett Hendey, started animals from fresh water, terrestrial an intensive research project on these and marine environments which deposits. Besides the main fossil includes the fossils of the smaller assemblages from 5 million years vertebrates such as moles, mice, ago, there were marine fossil deposits lizards, chameleon and snake, as below that going back to about 10 well as fossils of invertebrates million years ago. such as snails.Where is the Fossil Park?The Fossil Park is situated atLangebaanweg, approximately 120|96 SCIENCE CAREERS SA

We offer: • Guided tours to the 5 million year old palaeontological site, our laboratory and on-site museum • Educational Tours to school and student groups • Tourist Tours to Tour Operators • Walking Trails • Cycle Routes • Play Park for children under 12 years old • Coffee shop which sells the best Lemon Meringue Tart in the West, Carrot Banana Cake, wonderful filter coffee and a range of light meals, including Roosterkoek with a variety of fillings and fantastic Fossil Park Breakfasts• 16 species of shark (identified With the halt in mining operations of Samancor, Mr Mike Salamon. In from teeth) in 1993, it was decided not to follow 2006, Iziko Museums and BHP Billiton the normal closure procedure that (the holding company of Samancor)• 3 species of bony fish; would have rehabilitated the mine formed the West Coast Fossil Park• and for agricultural use, but rather to Trust, which now owns the assets of• 60 species of marine implement a programme that would the park and manages its operations. ensure the preservation of the The entire park was given National invertebrates. fossils of the area. Thus in 1996 the West Coast Fossil Park project Heritage Site status in 2014. ■Many of the species described are commenced, in a joint ventureknown only from Langebaanweg. between the mining company Contact Details Samancor (the holding companyWe also have some understanding for Chemfos) and the South African Tel: 022 766 1606of the plants that grew at that time Museum (later part of Iziko Museums General Tours: contact Nadia -from analyzing preserved pollen and of South Africa). In 1998 the park [email protected]. The composition of animal was opened by the then Minister of Educational Tours and Groupand plant species has contributed to Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Tours: contact Wendya better understanding of the different Dr Pallo Jordan, and the Chairman [email protected] that existed at that time. |SCIENCE CAREERS SA 97

with FREDERIC IGORE BIKANDOU-NDOUMADIRECTORat I & J ACCOUNTANTSWhy did you choose this with clients in different business Frederic Igore In ordcareer? industries regarding their challenges succe in tax and accounting. I then collect Career highlights mustThere were many influences that went the required documents from them to date? and ininto my decision to select this career that will help me to solve those organfield. One of my early mentors was my problems. After collecting the Growing in my skills; Adding new detailfather who was also an accountant he documents I have to give instructions companies to my client list; Becoming creatiencouraged me to explore opportunities to my employees to process the a director and managing staff.in this field. He pointed me in the right documents. It is my responsibilitydirection by giving me some exposure to oversee the whole process, and 3 important qualitiesin accounting field through accounting I have to give the final touch and that your positionhome work as well the role of an check if the job is well done requires?accountant in the business world. Whilebeing at school I took a class with a What do you enjoy most Effectiveness, efficiency andteacher I really liked, he used to explain about your job? economically minded.accounting in a very interesting way thatcontributed for my decision to become I think I have my father’s blood in Experience vs Training:an accountant. me! I enjoy compiling the financial statements because this gives me My job would be impossible toWhat formal training did exposure to how the company is complete without the training that Iyou undergo, managed in detail. I can follow had at Boston. Some skills can beand where? this trail until the results of the learned on the job – accounting is company at the end of the financial not one of them. You need a trainingCertified Accounting Technician (CAT) year - which could be Profit or loss institution with a good methodology,through the Association of Chartered depending on how the company was as becoming proficient in accountingCertified Accountants. (ACCA). I managed during the year. is about understanding thestudied my qualification at Boston concepts, and tons of practice!City Campus & Business College, to What are the mostwhich I owe a large part of my success enjoyable aspects of While it is possible to managein my studies. It is an internationally your current position? people without training, anaccredited qualification. understanding of the work they need Currently I am a director of a to complete is essential in order toWhat exactly does company which gives me authority manage them fairly and effectively.your job entail? to manage others. I like the fact that I give instruction to others and they Advice for grade 11 & 12Being in accounting may not be execute my instruction which gives learners consideringexciting to some, but I have a me in return a sense of leadership this career?passion for this job! I use all aspects and achievement.of accounting that I learned in my Study hard and be focused.course at Boston. I manage staff, What is the least Investigate your post schoolliaise with companies and work with enjoyable duties opportunities now, don’t wait untilteams. I also complete work on my of your job? you have completed matric. Bostonown. So you have to be a people’s offers free careers counselling andperson as well as independent. I The least enjoyable duties of my job a career compass assessment, thatwork with numbers, worksheets, are travelling the long distances. will give you your own vision for youdocuments and with people! I hate driving long distances and future and provide a goal to work my job requires a lot of travelling. towards.Describe an average day Sometimes it will be to consult withat work? a client, or to respond to a problem that needs immediate attention fromBasically every day I consult management.|98 SCIENCE CAREERS SA

Get your foundations right! Start building your future now! DID YOU KNOW?Matric Science is a three-year course... it already starts in Grade 10 !!Quick, go download your FREE COPY of Science Clinic’s Grade 10 Smart Prep Book!Each Smart 1 Summaries and breakdowns of core Physics and Chemistry. Prep Book 2 Exam questions and extensive memo’s for Physics and Chemistry. contains: 3 BONUS VIDEOS: tutorials for all the exam questions in the book! 4 BONUS MATHS: essentials to survive your Grade 10 Science!Go to www.scienceclinic.co.za to download a free copy of the Gr10 Smart Prep Book. Grade 11 and 12 webinars coming soon! www.scienceclinic.co.za THE ESSENTIALShttp://tinyurl.com/scienceclinicfacebook.com/scienceclinicsa

How will SKA1 be bettethan today's best radioAstronomers assess a telescope’s performance by looking at LOFARthree factors. These are resolution, sensitivity, and surveyspeed. With its sheer size and large number of antennas, the NetherlandsSKA will provide a giant leap in all three compared to existingradio telescopes, enabling it to revolutionise our understandingof the Universe.WITH THE SKA WITH CURRENT RADIO TELESCOPES SKA1 LOW Australiax1.2SKA1 LOW LOFAR NL xSKA1 LOW SKA1 MIDx4SKA1 MID VLA SURVEY RESOLUTION Thanks to its sensitivi Thanks to its size, the SKA will see larger area of the skysmaller details, making radio imagesless blurry, like reading glasses help be able to observe m given time and so m distinguish smaller letters.

er telescopes?VLA The Square Kilometre Array (SKA) will be the world’s largest radio telescope. It will be built in two phases - SKA1 and SKA2Very Large Array, USA - starting in 2018, with SKA1 representing a fraction of the full SKA. SKA1 will include two instruments - SKA1 MID and SKA1 LOW - observing the Universe at different frequencies. SKA1 MID WITH THE SKA WITH CURRENT RADIO TELESCOPES South Africa x8SKA1 LOW LOFAR NLx135 LOFAR NL x5SKA1 MID VLAx60D VLA SENSITIVITYY SPEED Thanks to its many antennas, the SKA ty and ability to see a will see fainter details, like a at once, the SKA will more of the sky in a long-exposure photograph at night map the sky faster. reveals details the eye can't see.

SKA1 MID - the SKA’s mid-frequency instrumentThe Square Kilometre Array (SKA) will be the world’s largest radio telescope, revolutionisingour understanding of the Universe. The SKA will be built in two phases - SKA1 and SKA2 -starting in 2018, with SKA1 representing a fraction of the full SKA. SKA1 will include twoinstruments - SKA1 MID and SKA1 LOW - observing the Universe at different frequencies.Location: Frequency range: 197 dishesSouth Africa 350 MHz to (including 64 MeerKAT dishes) 14 GHz Total or Maximum distance collecting between dishes: surface: 123 tennis 150km32,000m2 courts SKA1 MID Total raw data output: 2 terabytes per second 62 exabytes per yearx340,000 Enough to fill more than 340,000 average laptops with content every day Compared to the VLA, the current best similar instrument in the world: 4x 5x 60x the faster resolution more at mapping sensitive the sky