From Bela-Bela to engineering leadership: Olly Ngobeni's path through SA's automotive industry

Olly Ngobeni’s journey from the small town of Bela-Bela in Limpopo to becoming a PVT Body Interior Supervisor at Ford South Africa represents a significant milestone in the evolution of women in South Africa’s automotive industry. Growing up surrounded by the sounds of engines and the mechanics of vehicles, Ngobeni developed an early fascination with cars that eventually led her to pursue a career in mechanical engineering. Her academic and professional trajectory has been marked by determination, resilience and a commitment to breaking traditional gender norms in engineering and manufacturing. Ngobeni’s path began in Bela-Bela, where conversations with friends about car components such as engines and exhaust systems ignited her interest in the technical aspects of vehicles. This curiosity evolved into a passion for engineering, leading her to complete a BTech degree in mechanical engineering. During her studies, she encountered challenges typical of women in male-dominated fields, being the sole female student in several of her classes. Rather than discouraging her, these experiences fueled her resolve to succeed in a traditionally male-centric discipline. To complement her academic pursuits, Ngobeni sought out practical engineering experience, securing vacation work and workplace training opportunities. These experiences proved invaluable, offering her hands-on insights into the automotive manufacturing process and laying the groundwork for her eventual entry into the industry. After gaining foundational knowledge and skills, she joined Ford South Africa’s development pipeline, where she participated in projects during university breaks before transitioning to a full-time role in 2015. Early in her career, Ngobeni found herself in teams where she was often the only woman. Despite these challenges, she remained focused on her goals and gradually became a respected figure within the organization. By 2023, she had advanced from a technical engineering position to a supervisory role, marking a pivotal shift in her career. As PVT Body Interior Supervisor, she now oversees engineering and production changes, manages manufacturing processes, and plays a key role in shaping the development of her team members. Beyond her professional achievements, Ngobeni has continued to expand her expertise by pursuing a master’s degree in business leadership. Her studies have explored the dynamics of leadership in male-dominated environments and the impact of inclusive leadership practices on organizational change. She aims to leverage this knowledge to move further into senior leadership roles, where she can influence organizational culture, employee development and operational efficiency. Ngobeni’s story is emblematic of a broader trend in South Africa’s STEM sectors, where women are increasingly making their mark in technical and leadership roles. Her journey underscores the importance of accessible education, training and workplace support in enabling women to thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields. For young women interested in engineering, her career path serves as both inspiration and evidence of the evolving landscape of leadership in the industry. Outside of work, Ngobeni maintains a balanced lifestyle, engaging in activities such as reading, running, gym workouts and volunteering in her church’s children’s ministry. Her personal life reflects a commitment to holistic growth, reinforcing her belief in the value of continuous learning and community involvement. As she continues to advance in her career, Ngobeni remains dedicated to advocating for greater representation and inclusion of women in engineering and manufacturing. Her success highlights the potential for meaningful change when systemic barriers are addressed and opportunities are equitably distributed.