TWO YOUNG ROLE MODELS FOR A NEW GENERATION OF WOMEN

Sarah Ramogale and Meriam Moleli not only worked alongside the best tunnelling experts in the world, they are also role models for a new generation of women who enjoy the freedom to work in engineering environments classically dominated by men.

“When I joined the Gautrain project I had no experience whatsoever except the theory I had learned from university,” says Sarah, who received a grant from Bombela Civils Joint Venture to complete her studies in Civil Engineering through the Pretoria University of Technology. Sarah was later appointed as a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) surface supervisor.

“I am fortunate to have gained a very unique experience as a young female engineer working on a TBM,” says Sarah. These giant tunnel borers are not often used in South Africa.

“The Gautrain project has enabled me to learn from international experts and meet different people from different cultures, but the experience and skills I have gained on this project are unparalleled,” says Meriam, who worked as a TBM surface mechanical fitter. She is also a qualified instrument mechanic.

While part of the Gautrain Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) team, Meriam had to make sure that machinery at the process plant always functioned properly. She was also selected as a site safety representative.