Nosipho Dlamini, a boiler maker at Buhler South Africa, is breaking new ground in a field generally considered the exclusive preserve for men. Proving that skill, determination, and passion know no gender, she is breaking barriers one weld at a time.
MMM: Despite the advances contemporary society has made, women in boiler fabrication and maintenance are generally viewed as the odd ones out. How and when did you decide to become a boiler maker?
ND: I stumbled upon the metal industry by chance. In grade 10, I had to choose my career path, but I was unsure of what I wanted to do.
Then, my teacher suggested I take science, math, and mechanics, and I’m glad I did. I excelled in these subjects, passed my matric, and soon came across a job posting at Buhler for boilermakers.
Initially, I hesitated. After some research, I decided to apply, and by luck, I got the opportunity. When I started, I was curious, but I had no idea of what I was getting into. But while immersed in it, it become my second nature, a calling!
MMM: Many impressionable young women are attracted to glamorous careers like PR and marketing. Particularly, what inspired you to break away from this tradition?
ND: It is human nature to follow the familiar paths in life and where everybody is headed. And young women are no exception.
I know this may sound like a cliche. I’m driven by the desire to break stereotypes and show that women can thrive in industries where they are underrepresented.
Every day, I am determined to prove that women too belong in the space of boiler making and can excel just as well.
MMM: What is it that you see differently about being a boiler maker that you didn’t know before?
ND: As a boiler maaker, while you have got to have a work plan, you should also be ready to think on your feet and improvise, when need be. Not everything goes according to the book.
MMM: What is it that you enjoy about being a boiler maker?
ND: Being able to be myself and play to my strengths is incredibly fulfilling. It lets me shine in my own way.
MMM: What is it that drives you to deliver consistently in every task?
ND: What drives me is seeing customers light up when they receive my work, knowing it’s going to boost their business. Now, that’s the real payoff.
MMM: What are some of the challenges you encounter in the line of duty as a woman?
ND: There is nothing worse than getting underestimated and stereotyped. That can be super draining.
MMM: Negative comments – no matter how subtle – can kill one’s spirit. How do you handle this to ensure you remain thick-skinned?
ND: Since becoming a boiler maker I have been faced negative comments. But ia have got used to them and become thickskinned. I think it comes with the territory.
That said, you have to accept that people will always have opinions. However, you’ve got to keep your eyes on the prize.
People will make noise whether you do goo or bad. Remember, the emptier the vessel, the louder it tends to clatter.
MMM: How far would you like to go in the field of boiler making? Are we seeing a future employer?
ND: I want to succeed and see myself progressing further in my career: breaking milestones. I believe being a foreman is just the beginning.
MMM: Currently, South Africa has huge youth unemployment. What is your advice to young women who are not sure about their next career path, particularly regarding untapped opportunities in boiler making?
ND: There are immense opportunities for youth, especially young girls, in boiler making. If they need an inspiration or role model, they don’t have to look further than me. I will tirelessly continue pursuing boiler fabrication and breaking stereotypes.
