The role of women in South Africa's tooling industry

On 9 August 1956, over 20,000 women marched on Pretoria to protest the extension of apartheid pass laws to women. From that day, the phrase "You strike a woman, you strike a rock" emerged, which remains relevant today. South Africa marks Women's Month 2026 under the theme "Building Resilient Economies for All," emphasizing that a resilient economy cannot be built on half a workforce.

Tooling, though not glamorous, is foundational to South African manufacturing. It involves processes like pressing metal panels, injection-moulding components, and creating precision parts. The phrase "Tooling is the Mother Industry" highlights the industry's pivotal role. However, South Africa faces a demographic problem in tooling, particularly a shortage of qualified women in the trade.

Women make up just 16% of registered engineering professionals in South Africa. The issue lies not in the absence of qualified women but in the lack of mentorship, promotion, and inclusion in the industry. One such success story is Charmaine Lebogang Mthimunye, who graduated from PtSA's Toolmaking Apprenticeship and excelled in various roles, including CNC Programmer and toolmaker in Italy.

Lozien Jarvis, initially an administrative clerk, started her own company despite facing rejection from banks. Her perseverance led to her success as the Director of Equal ELM Trading, a company specializing in engine protection systems and precision CNC engineering services.

Bennita Sigawuki, hailing from Limpopo, had no prior knowledge of toolmaking. Through PtSA's apprenticeship programme, she overcame challenges and is now a Junior Toolmaker at Tente Castors South Africa. These women's stories highlight the importance of intentional inclusion and support for women in tooling and manufacturing.