Richards Bay woman excels in fierce ‘man’s world’
Stephanie is the first recipient of the scholarship, and was the only woman of the three recipients
AFTER having spent her working career in a male-dominated environment, Stephanie du Plessis is reeling with excitement after being awarded the top scholarship award from internationally acclaimed Mobius Institute.
Not only is Stephanie the first woman to claim this award but she is the first ever recipient of the scholarship, following the institute’s inaugural scholarship programme last year.
‘When I received the email saying I had won the top scholarship award, I had to read it six times before it sank in,’ said an elated Stephanie.
‘I was surprised I had even been considered and never thought I would win.’
Specialist field
A mechanical fitter by trade, Stephanie works at Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) as a Senior Maintenance Assistant in the electro mechanical field.
‘A fitter is a highly physical job and I knew that, as I got older, I would need a less physically demanding job,’ said Stephanie.
Looking around at other fields she could go into, Stephanie decided vibration analysis would suit her.
A vibration analyst uses a computer programme and specialised equipment to capture data on items like gearboxes, and analyses its mechanical components.
After analysis a report, determining potential faults, is produced.
Essentially, a vibration analyst determines early failures, allowing the company to fix such failures before a catastrophic failure occurs.
‘After realising this is what I wanted to do, I looked around for financial help to study, but received none,’ said Stephanie.
Undeterred, Stephanie borrowed a colleague’s study material and began studying in her own time.
‘Through RBCT in October last year I found out about the Mobius Institute and their scholarship programme.
‘So I entered and, earlier this year it was announced that I won the top award. I could not believe it.’
Gathering knowledge
Stephanie’s award includes distance learning training and materials for categories I and II, and an all-expenses-paid trip to one of the four International Machine Vibration Analysis Conferences (IMVAC) this year.
Stephanie has just returned from the Dubai conference where she was bowled over by how selfless the other attendees were with their knowledge.
‘Everyone was eager to help me, and each other, develop,’ she said.
‘I hope companies employing vibration analysts will see the benefit of sending them to a conference, and realise the importance of the field.’
Stephanie aims to write her category I exam in June after which she will be looking for an opportunity to make the most of her scholarship, and to get the practical experience required for full certification.
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