Two young women from Loeriesfontein, Marshe Strauss (23) and Kezia Souw (26), are gaining valuable hands-on experience as part of a team of cabling technicians working on a large-scale cable replacement campaign. Through this opportunity, they are developing practical skills in turbine operations and taking important steps in building their careers in the renewable energy field.
Their journey began in 2022 when they were selected to partake in the Global Wind Organisation (GWO) training programme, funded by the Loeriesfontein and Khobab Wind Farms. This training laid the foundation for their careers, equipping them with essential safety and technical skills needed in this field.
“This kind of support shows how local skills development can create long-term impact. By investing in technical training for young people in our communities, we’re creating access to meaningful career opportunities and promoting stronger gender representation in STEM and the renewable energy space,” said Vanessa Fredericks, Economic Development Manager for Loeriesfontein and Khobab Wind Farms.
Now employed as Junior Hoist Technicians, Marshe and Kezia are tasked with hoisting operations as part of a Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy (SGRE)-led campaign designed to improve the safety and efficiency of turbine operations at Noupoort Wind Farm, in the Northern Cape.
“We work at heights every day, ensuring tools and cables are safely lifted into the towers. It’s intense work but also very rewarding,” they explained.
Marshe and Kezia’s message to young women considering careers in STEM is, “Keep learning and embracing new challenges, and know that what a man can do, so can a woman.”
Looking ahead, both Marshe and Kezia are determined to grow in the wind energy sector. “We want to build our technical and leadership skills, connect with mentors, and continue building our careers.”
