By Eamonn Ryan
At the official opening of the new ACRA academy in Kimberley, Northern Cape, Cedrick Bphula recounts the highlights of his apprenticeship in shaping his future and fostering ambition.
Bphula, a dedicated apprentice in the HVAC&R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) field, shares his story of growth and passion for his trade: “Air conditioning and refrigeration are more than just a trade to me,” Cedrick expresses with enthusiasm. “It’s an industry filled with constant innovation and challenges that drive me to learn and grow.”
For Bphula, the appeal of HVAC&R lies in its dynamic nature, constantly evolving with new technologies and practices. “What I like most is the opportunity to work on big projects,” he shares. “From installing smart HVAC systems to tackling complex refrigeration units, each project presents a new learning opportunity.”
Despite being relatively new to the apprenticeship programme, he has already gained invaluable hands-on experience. “I’ve worked on diverse projects, from multi-feed installations at government institutions to crucial systems at Eskom substations. Every project teaches me something new.”
His journey into HVAC&R began after completing his matric when he pursued electrical engineering at a local college. However, it was his discovery of the apprenticeship opportunity with ACRA that truly ignited his passion for the field. “Attending the interviews and being selected for the programme was a turning point for me,” he recalls.
Since joining the programme in July 2022, Bphula has been immersed in both theoretical learning and practical experience, honing his skills under the guidance of industry professionals. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn and work on-site,” he says. “It’s where I truly understand the intricacies of our trade, from HVAC installations to electrical troubleshooting.”
Looking ahead, he dreams of starting his own HVAC&R company, leveraging the knowledge and experience gained during his apprenticeship. “With the right clients and determination, I believe I can succeed,” he affirms.
Reflecting on his most memorable experience thus far, Bphula emphasises the importance of troubleshooting in the field. “Troubleshooting is where you truly test your skills,” he explains. “It’s about identifying and resolving problems, especially on the electrical side, which is crucial in our industry.”
As he continues his journey, his story serves as a testament to the opportunities offered by apprenticeships in empowering individuals to pursue their passions and carve out successful careers in critical industries.
As Bphula and his peers pave the way for the next generation of skilled workers, their experiences highlight the importance of investing in apprenticeship programmes to address skills shortages and foster economic growth in communities like Kimberley and beyond.