Meet Khutso, Engineering Manager at Hillside Aluminium

As Engineering Manager, Khutso provides strong leadership and technical expertise across the Engineering functions. This includes managing capital projects, equipment studies, asset management, and reliability. Khutso ensures the delivery of effective technical support to operations, driving performance and excellence within the team. 

We caught up with Khutso to learn more about her career journey, and hear what excites her about the future:

Can you tell us a bit about your background and career?

I’m a mechanical engineer with a diverse background in manufacturing, leadership, engineering. I’ve gained experience across multiple industries, leading teams and optimising manufacturing processes. I’m passionate about continuous improvement, problem solving, leveraging teams' expertise to achieve results and fostering team growth.

What sparked your interest in engineering?

My curiosity about how things work and my love for problem-solving. I excelled in math and science as a student, and that foundation has inspired me to pursue this career! 

What are some moments that stand out from your career?

I’ve led teams through challenging projects and seeing them deliver under pressure has taught me the power of teamwork and adaptability. 

How do you manage your work/life balance?

Clear boundaries between work and personal life are key. I prioritise regular exercise, healthy eating, and downtime to recharge. 

A structured routine with my team helps us stay organised and ensures we communicate effectively to meet goals. 

How do you hope to inspire the next generation?

By breaking stereotypes and leading with confidence, I aim to empower others to pursue their engineering dreams and build fulfilling careers!