STEM Day (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) was celebrated on 8 November with consulting engineering and infrastructure advisory firm Zutari shining the spotlight on Ayesha Jacobs who is a mechanical and mechatronic engineer in Zutari’s Power Generation team.
Ayesha has an abiding care and concern for the well-being of people and our planet, hence her focus on renewable energy. She enjoys exploring discoveries in sustainability and developing exciting, effective, and efficient solutions for energy demand issues.
The team works with solar, wind, hydro and energy storage systems. Ayesha is mainly involved with solar PV design, from the layout of solar PV panels to low-voltage electrical design. She also carries out system modelling and load analysis, which is looking at how installing PV plants and battery energy storage systems affects factories and production plants.
Breaking down barriers
Energy is one of the most important resources in the world today, and it is becoming more challenging to meet global energy demands in a safe and environmentally- friendly manner. “I am passionate about the work that I do because we work on projects that are at the forefront of the industry, and Zutari explores ways that can fast-track energy development.”
As a woman in a STEM field, Ayesha aims to break barriers and inspire other women to do the same in their careers. “Women are increasingly claiming their space, and I am excited to be among those. I enjoy what I do as we work towards solutions that can mitigate the energy crisis, which is such a critical issue in South Africa.”
Intimidating
A career highlight for Ayesha to date has been contributing to the field by submitting a paper for publication and being afforded the opportunity to present it at a conference in Sydney as a leader in the solar and concentrated solar power field.
Ayesha says it was a privilege to tap into the vast array of skills and experience at the conference and then bring that learning back to South Africa. “It also forced me to get out of my comfort zone and put myself out there as I presented to almost 100 people.” While it took much courage, it showed Ayesha what she is capable of and reminded her to always go for opportunities even if they appear intimidating.
Pivotal role
Encouraging the active involvement of women is essential for fostering diversity and innovation in the engineering and renewable energy sector, notes Ayesha. “I would love to be able to inspire girls and young women to start careers in STEM. The enormous talents and perspectives of women not only contribute to a more inclusive and equitable industry but also enhance the sector’s ability to address complex challenges and drive sustainable solutions.
“By breaking down barriers and promoting equal opportunities, we empower women to play a pivotal role in shaping the future in a field that they understand well.”
Mistakes are inevitable
Ayesha’s advice to young women just starting out on their STEM careers is: “Do not undersell yourself and do not underestimate your ability. Confidence is key, and if you have made it into a career in STEM, then you are meant to be there. Finding a female mentor is extremely important, as they can help you navigate any difficulties that you may come across, as well as encourage you to speak up when you need to. Equally important is to find other young women in your field where you can discuss challenges and support each other.”
Ayesha says making mistakes in your career is inevitable if you recognise and embrace them as learning opportunities. Emotional intelligence is so important and can help to navigate relationships in the workplace, so it is essential for a leader to have good interpersonal skills. “Lastly, take chances and go for as many opportunities as you can – even if some do not work out, others definitely will!” she concludes.
