www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I March 2024 7
Associations
CESA AIMS TO UPSKILL
PUBLIC SECTOR
Consulting Engineers South Africa ' s ( CESA ’ s ) newly appointed president , David Leukes , together with chief executive officer Chris Campell , hosted a media event on 1 February 2024 for the Gauteng region , fielding a lively Q & A session .
Q : What projects is CESA involved in ? A : Our involvement in projects is multifaceted and operates on a partnership basis rather than a direct model . As an organisation comprising member companies , our primary focus lies in training initiatives , with the majority of our training efforts directed towards the public sector to enhance project delivery efficiency . We facilitate this process by engaging member companies to provide mentorship opportunities for recent graduates entering the public sector workforce . This initiative aims to bridge the gap in experience and exposure for these young practitioners , ultimately contributing to improved performance in their roles .
In terms of infrastructure development projects , our member companies take the lead . While we do not directly lobby for specific projects , we do provide contextual support . Within South Africa , our focus extends beyond just establishing new infrastructure . We emphasise the importance of maintenance , considering the longevity and functionality of existing structures . This dual approach addresses both the need for expanding infrastructure to accommodate a growing population and the necessity of preserving and upgrading existing assets .
Q : Procurement and digitalisation are crucial factors in industry transformation . How can procurement standards support the digital automation transformation of the built environment ? A : Procurement processes must uphold principles of fairness and accountability to combat corruption and ensure value for money , which ultimately enhances infrastructure quality . These same principles are vital in the context of digital transformation . Effective procurement – especially within government frameworks – serves as a foundation for successful digital initiatives . It requires not only adherence to standards , but also significant investment in training and development to align with the evolving landscape of digital automation .
Q : CESA mentioned the exodus of engineers from the country , a concern echoed frequently within the engineering community . Can you provide some insight into the extent of this loss over recent years ?
All images by RACA Journal
A : Anecdotal evidence suggests a significant outflow of skilled engineers , with many talented individuals seeking opportunities abroad , particularly in the UK . This trend is symptomatic of broader challenges facing the engineering sector , where professionals are employed across various industries , including consulting , manufacturing and even financial services . Despite efforts to quantify this phenomenon through surveys and affiliations , capturing accurate data remains a challenge , as reasons for migration vary and many individuals eventually return . This pattern of migration isn ' t new , reminiscent of previous waves where many sought opportunities elsewhere . While the allure of greener pastures may seem enticing , it ' s essential to recognise the value of our own country and work towards creating an environment that retains talent . However , countering this trend requires addressing not only professional opportunities but also factors like quality of life . In response , many companies are implementing employee wellness programmes to enhance workplace satisfaction and foster a sense of belonging . These efforts aim to create environments where
The audience at CESA ’ s February media event in Gauteng .
Consulting Engineers South Africa ’ s ( CESA ’ s ) newly appointed president , David Leukes , together with chief executive officer Chris Campell .
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I March 2024 7