Page 27 - Energize September 2022

NEWS

Rabedzwana confirms that ongoing learning and training to multitask brings definite advantages. After all, we work the same
is an important part of her own career: “I am currently doing hours, and we can do it all in high heels!”
further courses in compressed gas safety training. Combining
work with study is not easy - but I believe that in order to Dynamic diversity
grow, you need to continue investing in and empowering “At First Cut and GSI, we value the dynamic diversity which the women
yourself through knowledge,” she explains. in our companies contribute,” adds McCrystal. “Our five ‘leading ladies’
also offer a wide variety of skills and attributes which - along with their
Quality and safety fellow team members’ - all contribute to provision of cutting-edge
First Cut’s regional sales manager for Mpumalanga, Zelda cutting and welding training, products and service – to the ultimate
Vorster, also believes that women are now able to take their advantage of our customers and industry as a whole,” he concludes.
rightful place within the industrial arena, and that safety
concerns are imperative. Send your comments to rogerl@nowmedia.co.za
“The focus on people’s lives is a constant focus for First
Cut,” she notes. “Therefore, the evolution of our products
has always involved offerings that are top-quality, and are
correctly priced. We have stringent controls in place, and do
our market research to implement solutions that we know
will work - as well as ensuring that they conform to the
necessary standards.”
With regards to the issue of being ‘a woman in a man’s
world’, Vorster notes: “In my opinion, this has definitely been
changing over the past five to ten years. I am certainly seeing
more women throughout industry. I think the playing fields
are being levelled, and I welcome this. Furthermore, I think
women’s unique skills bring a more holistic dimension into
the workplace.
For example, I believe women tend to focus on the
details, and they are stronger at administration. They also
tend to follow through very well. When you work in safety
and construction, it is extremely important to pay attention
to the details. I welcome the ongoing addition of women to
our sector, as it broadens and strengthens industry overall.”

Women in industry
Jacolene Fourie: Sales Representative at First Cut, is also of
the opinion that the industry is opening up to women. “I
think it is fair to say that more and more women have been
able to enter the industrial sector over the past few years,”
she says.
“I have seen the situation changing throughout all areas
of engineering and manufacturing: from the warehouse to
the shopfloor and in procurement. Women are easily able
to play a key role in our industry, especially considering
their strong attention to detail. I have observed our GSI
colleague Thabi Rabedzwane’s training courses, and in
addition to commending her for her skill, I am also very
impressed by her patience, which I believe is a strength
that many women bring to the work situation - including in
training roles.”
Fourie enjoys the ongoing liaison with people that
her job brings, and helping her customers to meet their
production deadlines. “It is all about teamwork,” she
explains, “and communication is key. Seeing people face
to face is a key part of my role, and I enjoy the travelling
that my role entails. I certainly feel that women’s ability

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