Category: General

I saw a meme the other day that stopped me in my tracks. It showed a student hunched over a desk, staring at a computer, with the caption: “Studying hard so my future wife can have a house with a pool.”

At first, I chuckled. It’s part of a broader internet trend, memes that use humour to show people working hard today to secure a better life for someone they haven’t even met yet. The “future wife” memes are often light-hearted, but the underlying message stuck with me: Do we realise how our decisions today ripple outward? Not just into our own futures, but into the lives of our children, into our communities, and even into the broader economy?

I also love those memes that show a pair of greasy, calloused hands with the caption: “My hands look like this so that hers can look like this“, followed by a picture of a beautifully manicured hand wearing a dazzling wedding ring.

We often think of our careers as personal journeys. But when someone trains to become a welder, an electrician, or a mechanic, they’re not just shaping their own life. They’re contributing to the machinery of society. They’re creating capacity. They’re filling a gap that affects people far beyond themselves.

And that’s why a career in the trades or technology is one of the most direct and powerful ways a person can contribute to the country, while still building something meaningful for themselves and the generations to come.

Your Career Is a Personal Decision, with National Consequences

A trade is more than just a job. It’s a function that keeps homes running, businesses operating, and infrastructure standing. Working plumbing improves the quality of life, health and dignity. A well-serviced car gives security, freedom, and opportunity.

These careers are the backbone of a functioning society. When a qualified technician fixes a system that hundreds of people rely on, their value goes far beyond their pay slip. When a trained solar installer brings power to a school or clinic, the impact echoes outward into education, healthcare, and community development.

The student in that meme wasn’t just imagining a pool. He was imagining a future shaped by today’s effort. In the same way, South Africa’s future is being shaped by those who choose to build real, needed skills, now.

The Skills Gap Is Holding Back More Than Just Projects

There is no shortage of ambition in South Africa. But ambition means little without execution, and execution depends on capability.

According to the Department of Higher Education and Training’s list of high-demand occupations, South Africa has a critical shortage of electricians, energy auditors, mechanical fitters, welders, and technicians in emerging fields like robotics and renewable energy.

This shortage doesn’t just affect business growth; it slows down infrastructure delivery, public services, and energy transitions. It means more downtime in factories, more delays in housing projects, and more missed opportunities in the green economy.

And it’s not just about having “more hands” –  it’s about skilled hands. That’s where structured technical training plays a vital role.

Where Individual Growth Meets Societal Good

At Resolution Circle, we’ve seen countless examples of this intersection between personal advancement and public benefit.

We’ve seen school leavers become certified technicians in under three years and go on to earn stable incomes, support families, and even create jobs. We’ve watched employees transform from general labourers into skilled energy technicians, improving their companies’ performance while qualifying those companies for B-BBEE benefits.

These are not abstract possibilities. They are happening now, and they are the ripple effects of one person’s decision to learn something practical, tangible, and valuable.

A Greener, More Skilled Future Starts with Today’s Choices

As South Africa embraces renewable energy, innovative infrastructure, and sustainable development, the need for technically skilled people will only grow. These roles aren’t just supportive; they’re central. And they’re available to those willing to train, practice, and apply their knowledge in real settings.

What You Do Today Matters More Than You Think

Choosing a trade or technical path doesn’t just open doors for your future self. It opens doors for the people you’ll serve, the systems you’ll maintain, the businesses you’ll grow, and the communities you’ll strengthen.

Let’s forget for a moment about the stereotypical gender roles in that meme because women can, and do, have hands that are rough from hard work, from welding, wiring, fitting, building, solving. Women can and do thrive in the trades, and the industry needs more of them. The memes are cheeky. It’s romantic. But more than anything, it’s a reminder: work done with your hands can still carry the weight of dreams, not just your own, but someone else’s too.

And maybe one day, the student studying hard today, not for a pool, but for a purpose, will look up and realise they helped build a better South Africa, one skill at a time.

That’s the quiet power of skilled trades: they build more than structures or systems; they build futures worth holding on to.

I used to share in the common misconception that “blue-collar” is somehow inferior to “white-collar.” But in the Free State town where I lived not so long ago, that myth didn’t hold. The electricians lived next door to the doctors. The plumbers lived alongside the lawyers. And everyone shared the same leafy, upmarket suburb. That’s when it hit me: I had completely underestimated the trades. Turns out, it’s not the title on your business card that builds a good life.  

It’s the skill in your hands. 

I am not proud of the fact that people’s wealth changed my perception of their careers. However, I will dare to say that I am not the only one who didn’t give much thought to an artisan trade career (until there was a blocked plumbing system or I needed a solar system to combat load shedding!) So, where did this common, but mistaken belief originate? When did we start to believe the lie that paperwork is superior to handiwork? 

While I can’t answer the question with certainty, I do know that a career in an artisanal trade can be a real solution for young people and their families as they face significant decisions at the end of their school years. As matrics and their parents weigh options, from university applications to career paths, concerns about debt, employability, and finding meaningful work, the artisan trades offer a practical and respected way to build a stable and rewarding life. 

Why Trades Make Sense 

Choosing a trade offers advantages that few other career paths can match: 

Job Security. South Africa has a critical shortage of trained artisans, and the need is only increasing. Whether it’s renewable energy and infrastructure (solar installers, electricians, line workers), transport and mechanical industries (diesel mechanics, automotive service technicians, aircraft maintenance specialists), or construction and manufacturing (plumbers, welders, pipefitters, machinists), the opportunities are abundant and growing. 

A Path to Independence. Trades open the door to entrepreneurship. Many artisans start their own businesses, where success depends on skill and determination rather than office politics. This means not only building your own future but also creating jobs and uplifting your community. 

Faster, More Affordable Entry. Apprenticeships allow you to start earning while you learn. Instead of four years of expensive study, you can qualify in under three years, often at a fraction of the cost. That means less debt, quicker employment, and more hands-on experience. 

Strong Earning Potential. Skilled tradespeople often out-earn entry-level university graduates. Add in the potential for self-employment and specialised expertise, and the financial ceiling is high. TikToker @liferesetwithboni reports eye-popping annual earnings for tradespeople, and she brings the receipts (in the form of payslips) to prove it! 

AI and the Trades: Smarter, Not Replaced. Artificial intelligence is changing the workplace, but it can’t fix a geyser, service a car, or install solar panels, making these careers more secure than many “white-collar” jobs. In fact, AI is becoming a powerful tool for artisans rather than a replacement. It helps with design optimisation, automating repetitive tasks, predictive maintenance, project planning, and personalised training. Artisans can use AI to refine designs, analyse market trends, and create customised products that cater to current consumer demand. Meanwhile, automation manages time-consuming tasks such as basic assembly and material preparation, freeing artisans to focus on creativity and more complex work. AI-driven systems also anticipate equipment issues, optimise workflows, and improve efficiency and safety, proving that trades are not only resilient but increasingly high-tech and future-ready. 

A Role in the Green Economy. South Africa’s future depends on renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure. Solar technicians, electricians, and energy auditors aren’t just working for a salary; they’re driving the country’s energy transition and building a greener future. 

Lifelong Learning. Trades aren’t static. Technology is advancing, and artisans can continually upskill in areas such as robotics, innovative infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing. Robotics are bringing precision, safety, and speed to production lines and construction sites. 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, is letting artisans create complex, customised components faster than ever. Augmented and virtual reality are now being used for hands-on training and simulations, giving learners an immersive approach to bridge theory and practice. Automation is streamlining tasks across manufacturing and logistics, reducing manual labour while boosting efficiency. In short, the trades aren’t just practical, they’re high-tech, exciting, and dynamic. 

Social Respect & Value. Skilled trades are the backbone of society. Without them, there’s no water, no electricity, no transport. Communities respect and rely on tradespeople daily, even if they don’t always get the spotlight. 

Inclusive Opportunities. More women are entering trades, breaking barriers, and proving that technical skill has no gender. The number of women enrolling in artisan programs at colleges is increasing, with some reports noting women comprise around 45% of students in these programs. The industry needs and welcomes them. 

Global Mobility. The demand for artisans extends far beyond South Africa. Countries like Australia, Canada, and Germany list trades such as plumbers, electricians, welders, and construction managers as priority skills for migration. The Australian government, along with leading industry bodies such as Master Builders Australia, views skilled migration as essential to meeting the country’s growing demand for tradespeople. For example, over half a million new workers will be needed in the construction sector by 2029 to support Australian national goals, including building 1.2 million new homes, transitioning to a net-zero economy, and completing other critical infrastructure projects. Finding enough skilled workers within Australia alone has proven difficult, which is why many industry experts argue that bringing in skilled migrants, particularly in the trades, is the most viable solution. Choosing a trade opens global opportunities.  

Personal Satisfaction. Unlike many office jobs, trades offer the joy of tangible impact. At the end of the day, you can point to a repaired car, a lit-up school, or a newly built structure and say: “I made that possible.”  And it’s not just theory. We see it every day in our students. One former learner recently reached out on LinkedIn, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to grow and develop their skills in the engineering industry. They’re excited to continue learning, apply their knowledge, and make a real impact, proving that a trade career isn’t just a job, but a path to personal growth and fulfilment. 

Breaking the  Myths 

For years, trades were dismissed as “second best.” But that narrative is crumbling because it was never true. 

At Resolution Circle, we’ve seen matriculants qualify in under three years, step into well-paying jobs, support their families, and even start their own businesses. We’ve seen women thrive in welding, mechanics, and electrical work, proving that technical skill knows no gender. 

The truth? Choosing a trade isn’t about settling for less. It’s about choosing differently, and often, more wisely. 

Your Move, Matrics 

As the Class of 2025 prepares to take the next step, here’s the challenge: look beyond the familiar. University is one path. But it’s not the only one. 

Apprenticeships and trades offer a direct, respected, and future-proof route into careers South Africa desperately needs. Careers where your work is tangible, meaningful, and lasting. 

Because the future isn’t just written in textbooks. It’s built with hands that are skilled, trained, and determined. And some of those hands could be yours. 

Picture this: you’re 21 years old, earning a stable income, driving your first car, and helping out at home. You spend your days solving problems in the real world, installing solar panels, maintaining complex machines, and fixing things that keep a business running. You’re in demand, you’re respected, and most importantly, you’re free from the burden of student debt. 

It’s not a fantasy. It’s a future that more young South Africans could be living in if we started discussing apprenticeships and the trades more. 

The Problem No One Warns You About 

South Africa’s youth face a complicated reality. The economy is growing slowly, and formal employment opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. According to Stats SA, youth unemployment, defined as the percentage of individuals between 15 and 34 years of age, sits above 45%. Even those with a university degree aren’t immune. Each year, thousands of graduates enter the job market only to discover that their hard-earned qualifications don’t guarantee employment. 

At the same time, pursuing a degree isn’t cheap. A three-year course at a South African university can cost anywhere between R120,000 and R280,000 conservatively, and that’s before adding in living expenses. For many families, this means taking on loans or making financial sacrifices, often with no clear return on investment in the end. Globally, it’s the same story. In the United States, student debt has ballooned past $1.7 trillion, leaving a generation financially strapped before their careers even begin. 

So, what do you do when the “traditional” route is no longer a sure thing? You consider a path that’s been there all along but hasn’t always been valued the way it should be. 

A Smarter Way In 

If you search for jobs that will still matter in 10, 20 or even 30 years, you’ll find a surprising pattern. Yes, tech and AI will dominate, but they won’t replace everything. The trades will remain vital. Jobs such as electricians, millwrights, plumbers, welders, and solar energy installers will continue to be in high demand. These are practical, hands-on roles that require problem-solving, adaptability, and real-world skills, things that can’t be outsourced or automated. 

That’s where apprenticeships and technical training come in. At Resolution Circle, young people can enrol in accredited programmes that combine learning with actual work experience. Unlike university, where you might study for three years before entering the real world, apprentices earn while they learn. By the time their peers are still sitting in lectures, they’ve gained real skills, industry exposure, and income. They’re ready to work, and many are already doing so. 

It’s not just about getting a job. It’s about building a future on your terms. Many artisans go on to start their own businesses, from mobile mechanic services to solar installations and home repairs. That kind of independence and opportunity is hard to match. 

Take Celiwe Mntambo, for example. She completed her apprenticeship with Resolution Circle in October 2024. By 21, she was already working in technical support at Bolide, earning, gaining experience, and building a solid future. 

The Honest Truth About the Trade Path 

But let’s be clear: this path isn’t the “easy way out.” It takes grit. Apprentices often start with low stipends. They face harsh working conditions. They might work long hours, and sometimes they’ll have to create their own opportunities where none seem obvious. But if they’re driven, resilient, and hungry to learn, there’s no limit to how far they can go. 

Success in the trades isn’t just about technical skill. It takes more. It requires soft skills, such as professionalism, effective communication, time management, and a sense of responsibility. Business acumen becomes vital, especially for those looking to work independently or grow their ventures. The students who thrive are those who consistently show up on time, work well with others, solve problems effectively, and adapt quickly when things don’t go as planned. 

And that’s where the real difference lies. An apprenticeship doesn’t just give you a job; it teaches you how to be employable, how to grow, and how to take ownership of your future. 

A Life You Can Build 

For learners finishing school this year, it’s time to rethink what success looks like. University is still a valid and worthwhile option for some, but it’s no longer the only way. The trades offer a different kind of success, one that starts sooner, costs less, and often leads to a life of greater independence and satisfaction. 

Parents, too, may need to shift perspective. Wanting your child to go to university is natural. However, wanting your child to be confident, skilled, and secure is a universal goal. The trades offer that, and more. They offer a way forward that is grounded, future-proof, and of immense value to society. 

If you or someone you know is ready to build something real, Resolution Circle is here to help. Our technical programmes, apprenticeships, and short courses are designed to equip young people with the skills they need to thrive, not just survive. 

No debt. No waiting. Just a career that works.

“The future belongs to those who learn more skills and combine them in creative ways.” 
– Robert Greene, author of Mastery. 

The trades are at a watershed moment in the intersection of innovation and tradition. Across South Africa and the rest of the world, industries are evolving rapidly, driven by technology, sustainability, and changing employee/employer mindsets. Electricians, diesel mechanics, millwrights, and other technical professionals are swept along in the tide of transformation. 

The good news? Skilled trades are more in demand than ever. However, the challenge is clear: to remain up-to-date and competitive, trade professionals must adapt. It is no longer just about knowing your craft. It is about combining experience with agility, and craftsmanship with technological advancements. 

Let us explore the key shifts shaping the future of the trades and how the next generation of artisans can rise to the challenge. 

1. Green is the New Gold

Sustainability is no longer optional. From construction to fabrication and electrical work, clients and regulators are demanding eco-conscious and responsible methods. This includes energy-efficient systems, reduced emissions, and waste-conscious manufacturing processes. 

Artisans who are informed about green materials, energy audits, and sustainability certifications will stand out in an increasingly environmentally aware market. 

2. Technology Is Changing the Tools of the Trade

From predictive maintenance software to 3D printing and drones, digital tools are changing how tradespeople work. These technologies improve efficiency, safety, and precision. But they also demand new skills. 

Staying up to date with new tech is no longer ‘new.’ It is a requirement for survival in a competitive industry. This means continuous learning and a willingness to adopt digital tools as part of everyday problem-solving. 

3. The Independent Artisan Is on the Rise

With the growth of the gig economy and project-based work, more professionals are opting for self-employment or short-term contracts. This enables flexibility and financial independence but also requires strong personal branding and client relationship management. 

To be successful in this space, artisans need more than technical skills. Business sense, fiscal management, marketing, and time management are becoming just as important as turning a wrench or laying a cable. 

4. Broadening Participation Strengthens the Sector

A positive change in the trades is the increased involvement of formerly excluded or underrepresented individuals. More women are entering the workshop. More youth from underserved communities are exploring technical careers. This broadening of viewpoints brings new energy, creativity, and problem-solving power to the industry. 

Encouraging different voices in the trades helps meet labour shortages and creates a workforce that is more reflective of the society it serves. 

5. Skills Need Recognition to Unlock Opportunity

Many experienced artisans in South Africa have developed their skills on the job, without formal qualifications. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows these professionals to have their expertise officially recognised without restarting their education from scratch. 

This formal recognition enhances credibility, opens doors to higher-paying opportunities, and fosters overall confidence in the profession. 

A Partner in Progress 

Skilled professionals have a promising future, but their training will need to keep pace with emerging technology to remain relevant. As the landscape of skilled trades continues to shift, technical training providers play a key role in preparing workers for the future. At Resolution Circle, we are committed to equipping learners with not just technical ability but also digital fluency, entrepreneurial skills, and forward-thinking mindsets. 

We develop our programs in collaboration with industry experts and update them regularly to meet current and evolving needs. Whether it is integrating smart tech into workshops, supporting learners through RPL, or improving learners ‘soft skills like communication and problem solving, our mission is to ensure that the trades continue to thrive in South Africa and beyond.  

While increasing adoption of technology can give rise to fears of job losses and obsolete skills, it can make jobs safer, faster, and more efficient. For artisans who are willing to adapt and have a lifelong learning mindset, it can create new opportunities and more rewarding outcomes.  

A safe and responsible workplace starts with leadership. At Kamoa Copper, we use Visible Felt Leadership (VFL) to actively promote safety and well-being among employees. 

What is Visible Felt Leadership? 

VFL is a hands-on approach where leaders engage directly with employees to understand their challenges, reinforce safety standards, and build trust. By being present in the workplace, leaders show they care about employees’ well-being. They communicate safety expectations clearly, listen to concerns, and encourage employees to take responsibility for their own safety. When leaders and employees openly discuss safety, it strengthens their relationship and creates a culture where everyone feels valued and protected. Recognising and rewarding safety efforts further reinforces positive behaviours and accountability. 

Why is VFL Important? 

When leaders prioritise safety, it fosters a culture of accountability, leading to fewer accidents, increased employee engagement, and a stronger company reputation. Employees who see their leaders involved in safety efforts are more likely to take it seriously. Feeling heard and supported also improves morale and job satisfaction, making the workplace safer and more productive. 

Leadership’s Role in Safety 

Managers set the tone for workplace safety through their actions. Leading by example shows employees that safety is not just a rule but a core value. When leaders genuinely care, employees trust them more, are more likely to report hazards, and feel empowered to take ownership of their own and their colleagues’ safety. 

Did You Know? 

Leaders who practise VFL are more likely to identify workplace hazards before they lead to incidents. 

Employees are more committed to safety when they see their leaders actively engaging in VFL. 

Regular VFL interactions build trust, improve morale, and strengthen the overall safety culture. 

As industries continue to evolve, the demand for specialised skills is skyrocketing. By 2025, tradespeople with expertise in technical and mechanical fields will be among the most sought-after professionals globally. Driven by advancements in technology, sustainability initiatives, and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, specific skill sets are poised to lead the way in shaping the future workforce. 

High-Demand Skills on the Rise 

Renewable energy is transforming industries, with careers in solar photovoltaic installation poised for explosive growth. These fields are driven by the global push toward sustainable energy solutions, creating opportunities for automotive and other renewable energy technicians who can install, maintain, and optimise these systems. Similarly, electricians with expertise in smart home systems, electric vehicle charging stations, and energy-efficient technologies are becoming indispensable. 

Mechanical and industrial machinery skills are also critical as automation reshapes manufacturing and logistics. From maintaining conveyor belts to repairing robotics, tradespeople with hands-on expertise, such as diesel technicians and aircraft mechanics, are increasingly in demand. HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) technicians, plumbers, carpenters, and welders remain foundational as infrastructure and construction sectors expand, alongside skilled construction managers who oversee complex projects. 

Meanwhile, the integration of 5G networking and quantum computing is revolutionising how industries operate, creating demand for professionals skilled in these cutting-edge technologies. Home inspectors are also becoming vital as safety and compliance standards evolve in residential and commercial construction. 

The evolving landscape requires not only technical expertise but also adaptability. In a world embracing Industry 4.0, fluency in programming, digital tools like IoT, and AI integration has become essential for trades professionals. However, these technical capabilities must be complemented by soft skills, such as project management, ethical decision-making, and entrepreneurial thinking, to thrive in a competitive marketplace. 

Bridging the Gap: Resolution Circle 

Resolution Circle, a leading technical training provider, is at the forefront of equipping individuals with the skills demanded by tomorrow’s workforce. Their hands-on, practical training programs immerse participants in real-world applications, providing in-demand skills that open tangible opportunities even while they study. Through specialised programs in fields like renewable energy, robotics, and precision machining, they prepare trainees for careers that align with global trends. From apprenticeships to professional reskilling, Resolution Circle ensures its graduates are job-ready and future-ready, empowered to lead and innovate in their chosen industries. 

The key to staying ahead as the world progresses lies in practical expertise and continuous learning. With organisations like Resolution Circle leading the charge, the future belongs to those who can adapt, innovate, and deliver in an ever-changing world.

Early in February  the Mining Indaba took place in Cape Town, bringing together industry leaders to discuss the future of mining in Africa.

According to a PwC report, the global mining sector faced unprecedented, yet familiar financial challenges in 2023. Declining commodity prices and rising costs led to a more than 7% drop in revenues among the world’s top 40 mining companies, with profits shrinking as well. Pressure continued in 2024, marking the first time since 2016 that industry revenues would fall for two consecutive years. A mix of cyclical and structural issues compels leading mining companies to invest for growth and transformation even as revenues and profit margins come under pressure.[1]

One of the key strategies to improve productivity in mining, is the adoption of automation, mechanisation, and process optimisation. Reducing resource consumption, like energy, is also crucial. Implementing energy demand management and energy efficiency measures can significantly cut costs while supporting sustainability goals.

The Internet of Things (IoT) enables remote monitoring of operations, early detection of equipment and other failures, and preventative maintenance, reducing downtime and enhancing efficiency. The creation of digital twins (virtual models of physical operations) can optimise workflows and de-bottleneck a plant’s operations. However, all these advancements require a skilled workforce that is trained to operate, maintain, and innovate within these systems.

This is where Resolution Circle plays a vital role. Their technical training programmes, customised workshops, and practical skills development equip workers with the expertise needed to support these technological advancements in mining. They provide hands-on training in automation, energy efficiency, digital transformation and mechanical- and electrical maintenance.

Some mining companies choose to manage their training in-house. Others outsource their training functions to third party providers. Resolution Circle has successfully partnered with several mining companies to deliver tailored training solutions, either as a standalone service, or through creating and managing purpose-built training centres.

In South Africa, mining companies must adhere to the Mining Charter’s Social Labour plan, which includes skills development  for employees and the community. Resolution Circle’s training programmes help to fulfil these requirements, bridging the gap between industry needs and skills development.

To realise the dream of Mining Indaba 2025 – “Future-Proofing African Mining, Today!”  – Resolution Circle can provide practical solutions to complex challenges, and improve the future of employees and communities, long after mine closure.

[1] PWC Mine Report 2024 (21^st edition) dated 27 June 2024