training Archives - Business Directory

A Big Thank You to MEDO

A Big Thank You to MEDO

Over the past six months, the Mpumalanga Enterprise Development Organisation (MEDO) has been engaged in two intensive enterprise development projects.

MEDO partnered with the Middelburg Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MCCI) to run skills development programmes for local black businesses in various areas, from working at height to closing sales. MEDO used the MCCI’s extensive network to reach out to and empower the local community.

Another company sponsored businesses that are 100% run by young black female entrepreneurs. MEDO and MCCI wish the beneficiaries the best of luck with their new equipment and skills, and that they turn their businesses into successful enterprises.

Welding is the second scarcest skill in SA

Welding is the second scarcest skill in SA

The South African Institute of Welding (SAIW) and the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT) of the Mpumalanga provincial government met with companies from the Highveld region. The event aimed to discuss ways to address the shortage of welding skills.

The government has identified thirteen scarce trade skills for its approved infrastructure programmes, and welding is currently ranked as the second scarcest skill in South Africa. According to the American Welding Society (AWS), there will be a global shortage of 450 000 welders by 2023. Strategic programmes such as the War on Leaks and the new oceans economy programme, Phakisa, have also highlighted the need for skilled welders.

South Africa needs suitably qualified welders with the required skills to enable local businesses to benefit from this demand. DEDT and SAIW are planning to open an exciting new welding school, supported by a world-class welder programme, to be based at the Mpumalanga Stainless Initiative (MSI) in Middelburg.

The aim is to provide three years of training for highly skilled workers trained to industry standards. The artisans will be able to produce higher quality welds with lower rework costs and better productivity. By the time they qualify as welders, they will have internalised the company’s work processes and standards. Lower risk and cost in recruitment and better retention.

Many companies need welders, and large companies offer apprenticeships, but we need to find a way to train our local people in marketable skills that will drive our economy. MCCI members are committed to reaching out directly to SAIW to get the ball rolling. Businesses interested in participating in the SAIW welding school at MSI can contact Etienne Nel (etienne.nell@saiw.co.za) or Silindile N Ntshangase (SNtshangase@mpg.gov.za) for more information

Sales and Marketing – The new frontier

The sales and marketing environment has been evolving and changing rapidly, and with the current social media marketing trends businesses adopted persons wanting a career in sales and marketing has to be upskilled to remail relevant in this field.

Middelburg Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MCCI) is looking for candidates looking to change careers determined, passionate, driven, and like a challenge. We in the process of establishing an intern academy. Yes, you get hired, trained to get experience and exposure to the business world in an entrepreneurial environment. A commitment for 12 months and you get paid!

It is a combination of marketing and sales. What will we expect from you?

Assistance in marketing/sales department
Preparing proposals
Hosting events
Researching marketing trends
Establish a social media footprint
Administrative duties

Sales is a performance-based career. The more you sell, the more commission you earn.

Anyone with a competitive streak or the desire to be rewarded for their hard work is a key motivator and something that will drive a successful career for years.

You work with your customers to improve their businesses.

MCCI will give candidates the right exposure, training and administrative skills needed to succeed in this field. Interested candidates send CV to businesslink@middelburginfo.com.