The front cover of this issue can certainly be described as 'eye-catching'. No doubt the subject will create as much discussion amongst our readers as it did amongst our own staff.
On the one hand, I have deep concerns over the objectification of a female subject. On the other, the cover is incredibly striking and certainly accomplishes its task of drawing the reader's attention to the brand in question.
Wendy Dyer, marketing and brand consultant to Wonderware Africa, is an outspoken feminist. I struggled to reconcile these feminist values with the image with which Dyer was proposing we adorn the front cover.
"The image is certainly not degrading to women. that is something that I would not tolerate," retorted Dyer. "But let us face it, a cleavage is something that every woman loves to flaunt. Granted, the cover image is slightly naughty and adventurous, but then Wonderware is a company that is known for pushing both technological and marketing boundaries."
If you, our readers, agree or disagree, we would like to hear from you. Send your comments to [email protected]
Welcome
This month we welcome Andrew Ashton on board as editor of both SA Instrumentation & Control, and its sister publication, Motion Control. Probably best known as the head of industrial automation company, ProLoCon, Andrew brings a wealth of first-hand experience, underpinned by both formal engineering and business qualifications.
Andrew Ashton, editor: SA Instrumentation & Control, and Motion Control, [email protected]
Andrew has first-hand experience of both the business and operational requirements imposed upon the control and instrumentation professional. His knowledge of the burgeoning 'new economy' is well-tempered by realistic optimism.
Goodbye
Sadly, we say goodbye to Jaime Chan, who moves on to South African petrochemical giant, Sasol. We thank her for her positive contributions to SAI&C, and wish her well in her new-found career.
Skill shortage
A reminder that The Industrial Instrumentation Group (IIG) is currently conducting a survey on the engineering skills shortage in South Africa. The aim of the survey is to gauge industry's willingness, abilities, readiness and factors affecting the ability to contribute to tackling the chronic skills shortage in the electrical and instrumentation and control engineering fields in South Africa.
The survey consists of 18 questions and should not take more than 10-15 minutes to complete. I urge every company that employs the relevant technicians and engineers to participate in the survey (www.iig.org.za/skills).
Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
News
In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.
Read more...Africa Automation Indaba 2026
News
A bold new chapter in Africa’s industrial evolution begins with the launch of the Africa Automation Indaba, set to take place from 13 to 14 May 2026 at the prestigious Radisson Collection Hotel in Cape Town.
Read more...EtherCAT Technology Group holds another Plug Fest
News
Recently, the EtherCAT Technology Group (ETG) once again invited its members to a Plug Fest, this time specifically targeting developers and manufacturers of devices with Safety over EtherCAT (FSoE) functionality.
Read more...BMG powers up at Nampo 2025
News
The BMG team was highly prominent at this year’s Nampo agricultural show, held near Bothaville recently. This prestigious event, which is one of the largest agricultural exhibitions in the southern hemisphere, is a highlight for manufacturers and suppliers of farming equipment, as well as for farmers, families and the entire community.
Read more...Epiroc rocks youth development programmes
News
Epiroc is not just building equipment - it’s building futures. Through its dynamic internship and learner programmes, the mining equipment and services specialist is shaping South Africa’s next generation of skilled professionals, equipping them with real-world experience, industry knowledge and the confidence to launch successful careers.
Read more...Schneider Electric drives innovation in Africa Schneider Electric South Africa
News
Schneider Electric has officially launched its first Innovation Hub on the African continent, coinciding with the opening of its new regional headquarters in Midrand, South Africa.
Read more...100 years of safety leadership
News
DEKRA Industrial and its adult-based education and occupational skills training division, the Institute of Learning (IOL) will showcase a milestone at A-OSH 2025, as the company celebrates DEKRA Global’s 100 years of safety leadership.
Read more...Drakenstein Municipality aces Schneider Electric’s Sustainability Impact Award Schneider Electric South Africa
News
Drakenstein Municipality in the Western Cape has won a Sustainability Impact Award for Schneider Electric’s Anglophone Africa region, shining the spotlight on its unwavering commitment to sustainable leadership and its forward-thinking approach to ensuring a sustainable future for its coming generations.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version