BONGANI SIBIYA : A JOURNEY DRIVEN BY PASSION IN REFRIGERATION

Sibiya ’ s path in refrigeration has been shaped by both experience and a deep passion for the field . With a career spanning companies like Subicool , Coca Cola and DDS , Sibiya ’ s dedication to his craft led him to enrol in OTTC ' s ammonia course in 2024 .

“ I was at a point where I needed to prioritise my education . It was tough to leave my job , but I knew it was the right step ,” he explains . His time at OTTC reinforced his passion for refrigeration , particularly the importance of safety in ammonia systems . " Safety is paramount . You need to know how to handle leaks and alarms ,” he stresses , highlighting the practical , hands-on training at OTTC that prepared him for real-world challenges .

As he looks forward to further specialisation , Sibiya ’ s advice is clear : “ If you have a dream , follow it . Refrigeration is essential to our daily lives ."

Bongani Sibiya .

BOIKANYO MOLEFE : A RISING STAR IN REFRIGERATION ENGINEERING

For Molefe , a technical assistant at Piemans ( RCL Foods ), the journey into refrigeration was inspired by his mentor , Easter Gwemba . “ She encouraged me to come to OTTC , and I didn ’ t think twice about it ,” Molefe recalls . Having transitioned from accounting to engineering , he found excitement in the challenges of refrigeration , especially in ammonia systems .

Molefe is committed to furthering his expertise , currently working towards his N6 qualification and trade tests in both mechanical and electrical fields . “ I want to master everything before I move into design ,” he says , underscoring his ambition to specialise in refrigeration design .

His advice for those considering a career in refrigeration is simple but essential : “ This is a scarce skill , and working with ammonia can be lethal if you ’ re reckless . Safety is the most important aspect ."

Boikanyo Molefe .

ANDRE REYNDERS : FROM MAINTENANCE MANAGER TO AMMONIA SPECIALIST

Reynders ’ transition into ammonia refrigeration began out of necessity . Having been retrenched due to the bird flu outbreak , Reynders , a former maintenance manager at Crest Choice Chickens , took a proactive step by enrolling in the ammonia course at OTTC .

" My father told me if I wanted to succeed in refrigeration , I needed to master ammonia ,” Reynders recalls . Though he initially struggled due to his lack of formal qualifications , his hands-on learning style helped him thrive . “ I was always a hands-on guy ,” he says , reflecting on how practical experience at OTTC , particularly operating ammonia plants and troubleshooting , gave him the confidence to succeed .

Reynders highlights the value of handson training , noting , “ Understanding valve settings , pressure management , and how to react to real-world situations is crucial . It ’ s the only way to truly learn ."

Andre Reynders .

GRIEVANCE MALAPANE : PURSUING A CAREER IN AMMONIA REFRIGERATION

Malapane ' s journey into refrigeration began in 2012 when he completed his trade test at Booyco Engineering . His passion for the

field grew as he gained experience with major companies like Coca-Cola and South African Breweries . Eventually , he made the decision to pursue ammonia refrigeration .

“ I just saw an opportunity in ammonia refrigeration because there is a lack of skilled technicians ,” Malapane explains , noting that he funded the course himself despite the financial burden .

The course equipped him with essential knowledge about ammonia plants , refrigeration cycles , and safety protocols . “ Safety must be a priority in everything ,” he emphasises , acknowledging the inherent risks involved . With growing demand for ammonia technicians , Malapane is confident in his ability to excel . “ I ’ m ready to hit the ground running .”

Grievance Malapane .

LOVEMORE CHITSAKA : ASPIRING REFRIGERATION ENGINEER

Chitsaka ’ s journey into refrigeration was driven by his love for science and mathematics , along with a hands-on approach to problem-solving . “ I was always good at science and math , which led me into refrigeration engineering ,” he says . After completing his diploma in ammonia refrigeration , Chitsaka is now focused on gaining practical experience before advancing his education in refrigeration design .

He notes that ammonia refrigeration is a field that requires both specialised

Lovemore Chitsaka .

knowledge and a deep understanding of safety . “ Ammonia is often regarded as dangerous , but with the right knowledge , it becomes manageable ,” he shares , reflecting on the comprehensive training he received at OTTC .

His advice to others considering this field is simple : “ If you have a passion , follow it . Refrigeration is essential , and there ’ s so much to learn .”

COURSE LECTURER KURT JOHANNSEN ’ S LIFELONG COMMITMENT TO AMMONIA

At 84 years old , Johannsen continues to be a pillar of the refrigeration industry , with a career spanning over five decades . From his early days in Denmark to founding Freezetech in South Africa , Johannsen has dedicated his life to the field , particularly ammonia refrigeration .

“ I love teaching because you can see how happy students are when they learn something new ,” Johannsen says , reflecting on his two-decade-long teaching career at OTTC . He emphasises the sustainability of ammonia as a refrigerant , explaining how it has minimal environmental impact compared to synthetic alternatives . “ Ammonia is a natural substance , and it ' s essential for life . Every mammal produces ammonia ,” Johannsen explains , highlighting the importance of understanding this compound , not just in refrigeration but in biological processes as well .

As a founder of Ammonia Education ( Pty ) Ltd , Johannsen continues to contribute to the industry by offering specialised courses for those unable to attend during working hours , ensuring that skilled technicians are continually trained to meet the growing demand .

The stories of the five students and Johannsen are clear examples of how specialised knowledge , practical experience and the right mentors can lead to significant professional growth .

Kurt Johannsen .