By Eamonn Ryan
On 25 October, OTTC (Open Trade Training Centre) hosted a graduation for students who passed its ammonia specialist course. Cold Link Africa was there for the event and spoke to some of the happy but relieved graduates.
Bongani Sibiya, a dedicated professional in the refrigeration field, has been honing his skills since 2013. With a wealth of experience from companies like Subicool, Coca Cola and DDS, Sibiya recently took a significant step in his career by enrolling and graduating in an ammonia course at OTTC. This decision, made in 2024, reflects his commitment to advancing in a field he is truly passionate about.
Early career and transition to ammonia training
Sibiya’s journey into refrigeration began while working for Subicool from 2013 to 2017, where he dealt with commercial and industrial refrigeration systems. His career progressed through various roles, including a stint at Coca Cola and later at DDS, whereafter he earned his red seal trade test in 2014. However, driven by a desire for growth and specialisation, he decided to resign in 2024 to pursue further education in ammonia refrigeration.
“It was tough to resign from my job, but I realised I needed to prioritise my education,” he explains. Bongani consulted with his wife, and after making arrangements, he enrolled at OTTC, expressing satisfaction with his decision: “I’m so happy to be here.”
Discovering a passion for refrigeration
A passion for refrigeration was ignited by a chance meeting with a friend in Tembisa. “He was working in refrigeration, and I found it fascinating,” Sibiya recalls. After exploring opportunities and attending artisan skills training in Kempton Park, he secured a position at Subicool as a semi-skilled technician. His enthusiasm and dedication led him to pursue his trade test, marking the beginning of a rewarding career in refrigeration.
Experiences at OTTC
Reflecting on his experience at OTTC, Sibiya has found the training to be invaluable. “The professionalism here is outstanding,” he notes. He had conducted thorough research before enrolling, confirming OTTC’s reputation for specialising in ammonia training. “The course has equipped me with a deeper understanding of ammonia and its applications,” he states.
He highlighted the critical importance of safety when working with ammonia. “Safety is paramount. You need to know how to handle leaks and alarms,” he emphasises, underscoring that proper procedures are essential for anyone in the field.
The importance of hands-on training
Hands-on training is a crucial component of Sibiya’s education. “Our instructors emphasise safety first,” he shares, praising the dedication of his teachers, particularly Kurt Johannsen, who instills the importance of following safety protocols. “They ensure we are well-prepared for real-world scenarios,” he adds, highlighting the practical experience that bolsters theoretical knowledge.
Future aspirations
With his passion for refrigeration at the forefront of his career goals, he is eager to continue his growth. “I want to learn and grow because refrigeration is life for me,” he asserts. His dedication to the field drives him to seek continuous improvement and specialisation.
Sibiya’s journey also serves as a source of inspiration for others. “If you have a dream, follow it,” he advises, stressing the importance of pursuing one’s true interests rather than external expectations. “Refrigeration is essential to our daily lives,” he says, advocating for choices that resonate personally.
As Bongani Sibiya embarks on this new chapter, his commitment to his craft and his belief in the importance of following one’s passion shine brightly, positioning him for a successful future in refrigeration.