Where a career in engineering management can take you

Dr Hannelie Nel is the Programme Coordinator for our online Master of Engineering Management with over 25 years' professional experience across both industry and academia. 

Boasting a broad resume, multiple international awards, and a strong commitment to advancing women in engineering, we spoke with Hannelie about her leadership journey and passion for the industry in honour of International Women in Engineering Day (23 June).

How did you transition into leadership roles, and what have you learnt working in the engineering management space?

During my career I have worked in industry and academia and pursued senior roles in both fields to develop my leadership skills. I've worked across small, medium and large engineering firms, before starting and managing my own engineering consultancy company.

By doing so, I learned that industry requires specific practical and leadership skills from engineering management graduates, and it is important to incorporate those requirements in academic teaching and mentorship to ensure the employability and success of graduates.

What qualities do people need as an engineering leader or manager?

The qualities of an engineering leader include understanding and appreciation of the strengths and weaknesses of your team members, a strong engineering foundation, awareness of the external factors that influence your business, a willingness to adapt to change, effective communication skills and the courage to make decisions.

It’s International Women in Engineering Day on 23 June – why are you passionate about engineering, and what would you say to other women considering a career in this sector?

Sustainable and responsible engineering drives socio-economic development in a country for the benefit of its’ citizens, and in doing so, raises the standard and quality of living for people. I am passionate about engineering because I believe that our work makes a significant and positive difference in society and in people's lives.

My career in engineering has taken me around the world, and enabled me to start and manage my own engineering consultancy company - it's a great career for entrepreneurship. I highly recommend women to consider engineering as a profession as it is a rewarding career characterized by continuous new and exciting developments!

What’s the benefit of a Master of Engineering Management compared to a general leadership or management qualification?

The significant benefit of the MEM is that the program develops unique and applied engineering management skills, both theoretical and practical, for the professional advantage of students and their companies. A graduate of the program will be equipped to lead an engineering team or company from both engineering and business management perspectives. The online delivery of the program is an immense benefit for students as they will receive world-class education whilst gaining work experience, enabling career development, professional advancement and earning potential.

What are you excited for learners to explore in our online Master of Engineering Management?

I am excited that the online MEM program will offer a strong foundation in key engineering management principles, supported by real-life industry application. The program will enable learners to apply practical tools and techniques in their work and development towards engineering managers.

Keen to grow your leadership and business skills? Learn more about our Master of Engineering Management.