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).
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.
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.
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!