Abdul Razak Esakjee (Pr.Eng.)

Experience

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  Transnet Engineering

  Jan 2011 - Feb 2019

  As a Senior Engineer, I played a pivotal role in the design and development of innovative railway rolling stock and plant equipment. I was responsible for developing market entry strategies and optimizing operations within the design office, ensuring compliance with industry standards while fostering growth and innovation in South Africa's rail sector.I contributed to the successful design and development of the M-Cubed modular wagon and MC-25 modular passenger coach projects. I led the restructuring of the design office to enhance employee retention and morale, while also driving strategic planning initiatives that aligned with Transnet Group’s objectives. Show less In this role, I managed multiple high-impact projects within the product development unit, focusing on innovative designs and optimization initiatives. I collaborated with various stakeholders to ensure project success and compliance with industry standards.I successfully delivered a groundbreaking design for the New Generation Timber Wagon, which doubled volumetric capacity and achieved patent recognition. I also led a foundry optimization initiative that significantly improved capacity and quality within a short timeframe.I also achieved Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) registration within three years and extended a work-related project into a master’s research project, demonstrating my commitment to lifelong learning and engineering advancement. Show less

  • Senior Mechanical Engineer

    Sept 2016 - Feb 2019

  • Mechanical Engineer

    Jan 2011 - Aug 2016
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  AEGM SOLUTIONS

  Dec 2015 - now

  Director
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  Office of the Presidency: South Africa

  Apr 2019 - Oct 2020

  Commissioner: Presidential Commission of the Fourth Industrial Revolution

  Appointed as one of the youngest commissioners on the Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (PC4IR), tasked with preparing South Africa for the 4IR under the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa and Prof Tshilidzi Marwala. Contributed to the Human Capital Development and the Future of Work work stream, exploring the future workforce’s skills and the implications of 4IR on job displacement, reskilling initiatives, and social implications. Collaborated with fellow commissioners in producing a comprehensive report with recommendations for a national 4IR strategy, addressing key aspects like digital infrastructure, data management, and industrialization to promote economic growth. Exhibited leadership in generating innovative solutions and aligning strategies with national objectives, driving change and promoting collaboration among diverse stakeholders. Demonstrated strong relationship management skills, building effective connections with key players in government, business, and education sectors, fostering growth and collaboration for South Africa's future in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Show less

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  University of Pretoria

  Mar 2021 - now

  Manager: Engineering 4.0

  In my current role as Manager for Engineering 4.0, I lead the operationalization of the Integrated Laboratory Facility, focusing on enhancing education and research in civil engineering. I manage human and financial resources across key laboratory operations, ensuring compliance with ISO 17025 standards. My responsibilities include fostering innovation in materials testing, conducting cutting-edge research, and developing strategic partnerships to enhance the facility's global collaboration and expertise.I successfully led the strategic implementation of the Engineering 4.0 Integrated Laboratory Facility, addressing critical skill shortages in South Africa’s transportation engineering sector. I drove transdisciplinary research excellence and advanced training initiatives, ensuring the facility's high impact on sustainable transportation infrastructure. Show less