www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I June 2024 7
Associations
SAIRAC SITE VISIT HEARS LESSONS FOR HVAC PROFESSIONALS FROM ‘ WHO MOVED MY CHEESE ?’
Edited by Eamonn Ryan
The following is derived from a presentation by Evapco CEO Andre van der Merwe delivered during a SAIRAC site visit to Evapco ’ s factory .
The presentation began with an exciting announcement about the installation of a new fibre optic laser at Evapco . Van der Merwe highlighted the potential of this technology to streamline manufacturing processes and eliminates the need for traditional machinery such as punching machines . With the laser ' s advanced capabilities and automation features , tasks that once seemed cumbersome now appear remarkably efficient and intuitive .
One notable aspect of the fibre optic laser is its ability to adapt to varying sheet sizes and orientations without requiring precise alignment . Van der Merwe likened this to loading a sheet into a photocopier , where slight misalignments are inconsequential . This flexibility introduced his broader theme of adaptability and resilience in the face of change – a central tenet of the main theme of change in business , drawing inspiration from the book ‘ Who Moved My Cheese ?’ by Spencer Johnson .
By leveraging new technologies , cultivating adaptability , and fostering a culture of innovation , organisations can not only survive but thrive in an ever-changing world . As the adage goes , ‘ the only constant in life is change ’ – and those who embrace it are poised for success .
Departing from traditional discussions on refrigeration , Van der Merwe encouraged attendees to explore the effects of change and its implications for the HVAC & R industry . Exploring the nature of change as inevitable , people need to simultaneously manage both positive and negative transformations effectively .
“ Advancements in technology , particularly in the field of artificial intelligence ( AI ), have revolutionised industries across the board . For instance , the evolution of control systems and the invention of Variable Refrigerant Volume ( VRV ) systems are examples of technological advancements that have reshaped the landscape of the HVAC & R industry .”
Van der Merwe also discussed the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on businesses , citing examples of industries that thrived amidst the crisis , such as e-commerce and digital entertainment . He emphasised the importance of agility and
Images by © RACA Journal
Evapco ’ s new fibre optic laser machine .
Gregory Grobelaar , SAIRAC Johannesburg chairman , introducing Evapco CEO Andre van der Merwe .
innovation in times of uncertainty , urging businesses to identify opportunities for growth and adaptation .
Furthermore , Van der Merwe addressed the changing demographics of the workforce , noting the increasing age of technicians in the refrigeration industry and the need for skills development initiatives to address the shortage of qualified personnel and dearth of young people entering .
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I June 2024 7