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.
Andre Reynders, a recent graduate of the ammonia course at OTTC, has embarked on a new chapter in his career after previously being retrenched due to the bird flu outbreak. Currently self-employed, Reynders reflects on his journey from maintenance manager at Crest Choice Chickens to becoming proficient in refrigeration, particularly in ammonia systems.
Discovering a passion for refrigeration
Reynders’ interest in refrigeration began while he was managing maintenance at Crest Choice Chickens. With numerous refrigeration units in operation that relied solely on freon, he found himself tackling compressor breakdowns without a dedicated technician on site. “That’s where I started getting into refrigeration,” he recalls, describing his hands-on experiences as the catalyst for his newfound passion.
Embracing the challenge of learning ammonia
Motivated by his father’s advice to master ammonia for a successful career in refrigeration, Reynders enrolled in the ammonia course. Initially, he felt like a “first-grade kid” entering a complex field. “It started out tough for me because I didn’t have any formal qualifications,” he admits. Despite the challenges, his hands-on approach to learning propelled him forward. “I was always a hands-on guy,” he says, which helped him grasp critical concepts like calculating room and product loads essential for effective refrigeration.
Valuable skills acquired
Throughout the course, Reynders gained invaluable skills, particularly in practical applications. He had the opportunity to operate an ammonia plant for the first time, engaging in fault finding and troubleshooting issues that arose during operations. “Just practically working on the plant—that was the best part,” he notes, emphasising the importance of real-world experience in his training.
Overcoming challenges
He faced several challenges during the course, including significant electrical issues that required critical problem-solving. “There were a few electrical problems that we had, but it wasn’t really serious stuff,” he explains, highlighting the importance of adapting to unexpected situations in the field.
The importance of hands-on training
When asked about the significance of hands-on training in refrigeration, Reynders stressed its critical role. “If you have someone who’s never been in an ammonia plant before, and they have to work in one after completing their diploma, they’re at a disadvantage. Understanding practical applications like valve settings and pressure management is crucial for success in the industry.”
Looking ahead
Reynders’ career took a downturn last year when he was retrenched due to the bird flu outbreak that forced the closure of several farms. Facing challenges in securing interviews due to a lack of formal certifications, he took proactive steps to enhance his qualifications by enrolling in the ammonia course. “I thought, well, I have to do something to get a qualification behind my name,” he explains.
Having funded the course himself, Reynders encourages others to pursue similar training. “Come and do it,” he advises, particularly highlighting the importance of learning from experienced trainers. He highly recommends trainer Kurt Johannsen for his extensive knowledge and experience which greatly benefited his learning.
With a renewed sense of purpose and the skills he has acquired, Andre Reynders is poised to make a significant impact in the refrigeration industry, demonstrating that dedication and hands-on experience can lead to new opportunities even in the face of adversity.