Mr America’s journey to professional registration is a testament to perseverance and dedication. Holding a National Diploma in Civil Engineering from CPUT, a B-Tech Degree in Civil Engineering from UNISA, and a Certificate in Solid Waste Management and Technologies from the Technical University of Denmark, he has consistently pursued excellence. His achievement challenges the notion that professional registration with ECSA is primarily for private-sector engineers, proving that public-sector professionals can also attain this prestigious status through hard work and career development.
Professional registration with ECSA offers numerous benefits for both the individual and the municipality. It serves as an objective measure of competence, assuring the public and clients of the high standards upheld by the municipality’s staff. This is particularly valuable in a field where not all employees may have an engineering background. Registration also aligns with South Africa’s role in the global engineering community, as ECSA’s adherence to international accords ensures that qualifications are recognised worldwide, enhancing competitiveness and maintaining rigorous standards.
The Engineering Profession Act, along with other legislation like the National Water Act, 1998 (Act 36 of 1998), reserves specific engineering tasks—such as dam safety assessments— for registered professionals. Mr America’s Pr Tech Eng status positions the municipality to undertake such critical responsibilities with confidence, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and boosting service delivery.
This achievement reflects the Technical Services Department’s ongoing efforts to build a skilled, professional workforce capable of addressing the municipality’s infrastructure and service needs. By fostering an environment where career growth is prioritised, Prince Albert Municipality sets a precedent for other local governments. We congratulate Mr Ashley America on his remarkable accomplishment and look forward to the continued impact of his expertise in serving our community.
