Ashton Maharaj, a graduate from the Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT) student based in Emalahleni, South Africa, has successfully navigated the challenges of balancing work, study, and personal life while pursuing his career goals. He reflects on his experiences during his studies.
A Commitment to Growth
In his role as Senior Manager for Electrical and Instrumentation at ProGO, where he collaborates with industry leaders like Natref and Sasol, Ashton Maharaj acknowledges the critical role that electrical and instrumentation systems play in ensuring safety and efficiency.
This collaboration inspired him to pursue further studies at EIT to broaden his knowledge base to better serve clients
His interest in electrical and instrumentation engineering was driven by his extensive experience in the oil and gas industry. “I’ve been in this field for 18 years, primarily focusing on instrumentation,” he explained.
“I wanted to enhance my knowledge and bring more value to my team and projects,” Ashton said. His decision to enroll in the 52882WA Advanced Diploma of Electrical and Instrumentation (E&I) Engineering for Oil and Gas Facilities was not just about career advancement; it was also about personal growth. “I wanted to stay updated with industry advancements to make informed decisions,” he emphasized.
Ashton’s eagerness to learn was evident throughout his studies. He was particularly drawn to the curriculum’s focus on automation and control systems, which aligned closely with his professional background.
“The projects involving PLC programming and real-time process control really resonated with me,” he noted. This hands-on approach allowed him to connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications, making the learning experience even more rewarding.
Balancing Life and Studies
Managing the demands of work, study, and personal life presented challenges for Ashton, but he approached them approached them methodically. “Once I had my schedule and assignment deadlines, I was able to plan my study times around work and family commitments,” he explained. Some flexibility in the program made it easier for him to integrate his studies into his daily routine.
Returning to formal education after many years posed its own set of challenges. “Mastering the technical details of electrical and instrumentation systems was daunting at first,” he admitted. He found that transitioning back to structured learning took some adjustment, and the complexity of the course material was initially overwhelming.
Despite these hurdles, Ashton tackled his studies systematically. “Breaking down the material into manageable parts helped me build my understanding gradually,” he said. His structured study plan and consistent engagement with the coursework made the learning curve more manageable over time.
Ashton’s experience illustrates the importance of perseverance and adaptability in overcoming academic challenges. “Staying focused and committed was essential,” he reflected. His ability to balance multiple responsibilities while mastering complex topics showcased his dedication and resilience.
Practical Learning and Future Aspirations
One of the most impactful moments in Ashton’s studies was working on projects that mirrored his real-world experiences. “Being able to apply what I learned to my daily work was incredibly satisfying,” he shared. For instance, understanding the latest advances in process control allowed him to effectively implement improvements in his projects.
“Seeing the results of my studies reflected in my work was a great motivation,” he said. This real-world application reinforced the value of continuous learning, especially in a fast-evolving industry like oil and gas.
Looking ahead, Ashton is eager to build on the knowledge and skills he gained from his diploma. He aspires to take on more technically complex and large-scale projects in the oil and gas sector. “I’m particularly interested in companies that focus on automation, digitalization, and sustainable energy solutions,” he said.
Ashton believes these areas are crucial for the future of the industry and where he can make a significant impact. He is also considering furthering his education with a Bachelor of Science (Industrial Automation Engineering) or the Bachelor of Science (Electrical Engineering) to deepen his expertise.
For prospective students, Ashton offers straightforward advice: “Stay curious and open to learning.” He emphasizes the importance of mastering the fundamentals while remaining adaptable to new technologies. “Seek guidance from mentors and apply your learnings in real-world scenarios,” he suggested. This practical experience can provide a solid foundation for a successful career in electrical and instrumentation engineering.
Ashton Maharaj’s journey highlights the significance of continuous education and growth in engineering. His commitment to enhancing his skills while making meaningful contributions to the oil and gas industry sets a great example for aspiring engineers. With exciting opportunities on the horizon, Ashton is ready to embrace new challenges and contribute to this evolving field of engineering.
