Webinar Recaps
Engineering Meets EQ – Unlocking Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace
The recent “Engineering Meets EQ” webinar brought together engineering professionals and enthusiasts to explore how emotional intelligence (EQ) is shaping the future of the industry. The session provided valuable insights into both the professional and psychological aspects of EQ, highlighting its importance in enhancing collaboration, leadership, and overall team effectiveness.
The webinar featured a diverse panel of speakers. Abdurrahman Vahed, Research & Data Collection (Psychology) at iFeedback, offered a psychological perspective on EQ, emphasizing how emotional awareness and empathy improve stress management, conflict resolution, and team collaboration. As he noted, “While IQ might open the door to the position, EQ determines how effective you are in it.”
Jutta Dedekind, Implementation Business Unit Manager at Talbot, shared practical strategies for integrating EQ into engineering leadership and team dynamics. She highlighted that applying emotional intelligence can lead to tangible project benefits, including reduced costs, timely delivery, and higher client satisfaction.
From a personal perspective, Verona Moodley, Specialist: Development Metallurgy at Rio Tinto, discussed her experiences applying EQ in complex engineering environments. She encouraged attendees to regulate their emotions while embracing them as a natural part of professional life, stating, “There’s nothing wrong with feeling emotions – what matters is knowing how to regulate them.”
The session concluded with an engaging Q&A facilitated by Itumeleng Sethlabane, CESA YPF Eastern Cape Chairperson, who explored practical applications of EQ in everyday engineering tasks. Shanice Easthorpe, Junior Engineer at Talbot, closed the webinar by encouraging participants to reflect on one aspect of emotional intelligence throughout the week.
The webinar highlighted that emotional intelligence is not just a soft skill – it is a crucial component of professional effectiveness, team cohesion, and successful engineering outcomes. Thank you to all our speakers,sponsors and attendees for making #EngineeringMeetsEQ a resounding success!
Abdurrahman Vahed
Itumeleng Sethlabane
Jutta Dedekind
Shanice Easthorpe
Verona Moodley
Engineer Your Future – Building Purposeful and Impactful Engineering Careers
The “Engineer Your Future” webinar provided an inspiring platform for engineers and aspiring professionals to explore strategies for advancing their careers, fostering entrepreneurship, and making a meaningful impact in the engineering industry. Attendees gained practical guidance on personal branding, networking, and leveraging digital tools to expand professional opportunities.
The session was facilitated by Shanice Easthorpe, Junior Process Engineer at Talbot, who guided the conversation on career growth and professional development. Tinashe Mukalela, Professional Engineering Technologist and Project Manager at AvenirHoldings, COO of AvenirBuild, and EXCO Member of the CESA National YPF Committee, shared his insights on the building blocks of an engineering career. He emphasised the importance of purpose, values, resilience, and continuous learning. As Tinashe noted, “Purpose gives direction – it’s why you do what you do, while values are the moral rebar that keeps you grounded through challenges.” He also highlighted the significance of mentoring, networking, and professional registration in shaping a successful career.
Dr. Gift Mphefu, Managing Director of Med-TechEngineers and CESA Board Member, inspired attendees with his journey from engineer to entrepreneur. He encouraged engineers to cultivate knowledge, self-awareness, and adaptability, while surrounding themselves strategically with the right people. On innovation and product development, Dr. Mphefu advised, “Be guided not by excitement, but ensure innovation addresses a real problem in the industry. Be aware of the actual needs in the market.”
The interactive Q&A, facilitated by Shanice, allowed attendees to engage directly with the speakers, discussing topics from career growth and professional networks to navigating the transition from engineer to entrepreneur. Tinashe also highlighted the importance of driving positive change in the engineering profession, addressing mental health and encouraging collaboration between generations.
The webinar concluded with closing remarks from Itumeleng Sethlabane, Junior Civil Engineer at Nyeleti Consulting, who encouraged participants to continue building purposeful and impactful careers in engineering.
Thank you to our speakers, sponsors, and all attendees for making #EngineerYourFuture a valuable and engaging session!
Shanice Easthorpe
Dr. Gift Mphefu
Tinashe Mukalela
Itumeleng Sethlabane