In the wake of South Africa’s Youth Month, celebrated in June, original equipment manufacturer Barloworld Equipment has reinforced its commitment to developing the country’s next generation of technical talent by hosting graduates at its Cat Technicians for the World event, which was held last month at its Peter J Bulterman Learning Academy in Isando, Kempton Park.

Barloworld Equipment, which supplies materials handling solutions for the construction, agriculture, mining, transport and energy industries, notes that the event brought together young people from across Gauteng who successfully completed construction and mining equipment manufacturer Caterpillar’s free six-week Technicians for the World online learning programme.

Through the programme, and in partnership with Caterpillar, Barloworld Equipment hopes to address youth unemployment by investing in technical training initiatives designed to equip young people with future-ready skills and facilitate exposure to career opportunities within the industrial and engineering sectors.

With youth unemployment in South Africa remaining one of the country’s most pressing socioeconomic challenges, businesses have an important role to play in creating meaningful pathways into employment.

The programme introduces learners to the basics of Caterpillar equipment systems, service workplace safety and potential pathways into service technician training or apprenticeship opportunities.

The programme also forms part of Barloworld Equipment’s talent development strategy by helping identify “motivated young people” interested in technical careers, while supporting Caterpillar’s global commitment to skills development.

It provides an accessible entry point for young people who may not otherwise have direct exposure to technical careers.

Participants gained first-hand exposure to the Barloworld Equipment environment through presentations on the Caterpillar business, guided tours of the training academy and field service workshops. They also had an opportunity to engage directly with technical leaders during a curriculum vitae submission and question-and-answer session.

“South Africa’s industrial growth depends on a strong pipeline of skilled technicians,” says Barloworld Equipment human capital executive head Ruben Baloyi.

“The initiative reflects Barloworld Equipment’s belief that investing in technical education and employability contributes not only to individual career opportunities but also to South Africa’s long-term industrial competitiveness and economic growth,” he stresses.

To date, 1 032 learners in South Africa have been engaging with the Technicians for the World programme content and of these 92 have completed all modules.

“By creating accessible learning opportunities and building practical career pathways, Barloworld Equipment and Caterpillar continue to empower young people with the skills required to support the country’s infrastructure, mining, construction and industrial sectors,” concludes Baloyi.