National Diploma: Industrial Instrumentation

This stream places emphasis on the use of industry related techniques and tools such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC’s), classic and modern control strategies and industry-standard software development tools in order to bring a level of optimisation and efficiency to the process at hand. Students have access to modern laboratory or online simulation facilities allowing for the immediate application of theoretical concepts.

An instrument technician will be involved with the practical design, installation and maintenance of electronic digital and pneumatic equipment, control systems and development of procedures for maintenance and problem solving. The calibration of measuring instruments and the optimization of systems can also be part of his/her task. In the engineering team he/she may have to act as a manager in order to give the instructions received from senior personnel, usually engineers, to his/her subordinates, usually artisans and operators.

Career Opportunities

After completion of the theoretical part of the National Certificate, the student will be employed as a learner technician for the period determined by the employer – a minimum of 24 months. After completion of the training period, the student may be appointed as a technician.

Depending on his/her performance and the organizational structure of the company, he/she might be appointed as an instrumentation engineer. Other fields that can also be entered are those of sales engineer at (1) an existing supplier of instrumentation equipment (2) his/her own company as entrepreneur, specializing in sales, maintenance, installation or manufacturing.

Qualifying learners at N6 should be able to find employment in the following manufacturing or refining sectors: Mining, Petrochemical, Marine, Food and Beverage, Chemical Industries, Automotive Industry, Aeronautical/Aerospace Industry.

ENGINEERING: INDUSTRIAL INSTRUMENTATION

National Diploma: Mechanical Engineering  

This program is designed to enhance your productivity and employability in the mechanical engineering and energy sector whilst contributing to the quality, production rate and growth of said areas.

This is an occupational-based program that reflects both present and future workplace needs. It will provide graduates the possibility to be employed within the engineering field with the flexibility to pursue different careers in the broader mechanical engineering field.

By completing this course you will have the skills and confidence to effectively:

• Evaluate and apply essential methods to technical operational systems
• Analyze and apply acquired knowledge in performing the tasks and solve common problems
• Gather and analyze relevant information, use data to apply theories and principles within engineering related situations
• Execute role and responsibilities by being able to summarize, classify, discuss and estimate application processes required through mathematical concepts, technical and schematic diagrams, computer and technology usage in a range of different contexts
• Communicate with colleagues, clients and members of supervisory/management levels by presenting information reliably and accurately in spoken and written form

ENGINEERING: MECHANICAL