APPLICATIONS are open for the Production Technologies Association of South Africa’s (PtSA) TDM Powered Toolmaker Apprenticeship Programme which provides toolmaker training at world-class accredited PtSA Centres of Excellence in Gqeberha, Pietermaritzburg, Cape Town and Pretoria.
Toolmakers produce precision tools such as jigs, moulds and dies which are used in manufacturing processes. Toolmakers are employed in all manufacturing sectors, including automotive, chemical, medical, packaging and mining.
Candidates on the programme have access to advanced computer-aided manufacture and design, manufacturing and engineering programs for conventional and advanced tooling skills development.
Careers in tooling manufacture involve work activities that require a practical aptitude and involve the use of sophisticated computer-controlled equipment and machinery.
Candidates for a career in toolmaking must have the ability to visualise the product from a drawing and prefer responsibilities with a technical focus. They must enjoy work activities that present mathematical and scientific challenges.
Applicants interested in the PtSA TDM Powered Toolmaker Apprenticeship training programme must have successfully completed one of the following National Qualification Framework (NQF) Level 4 qualifications:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics (35%), Physical Science (35%) and English (40%)
- NC(V)4 with Mathematics (40%), Physical Science (50%) and English (40%)
- N3 with Mathematics (40%), Engineering Science (40%) as well as Gr 12 or NC(V)4 English (40%)
To be selected for the PtSA TDM Powered Toolmaker Apprenticeship Programme, applicants must complete the application form and submit it on or before the specified closing date. Selected applicants will be interviewed and if successful, will participate in a final assessment for selection.
On successful completion of the Toolmaker Trade Test, the student will be awarded the occupational certificate: Toolmaker (NQF Level 05) – SAQA ID 103177. The programme is modular and competency-based (not time-based) with a typical duration of four years (full-time study) to achieve the occupational certificate: Toolmaker.
Applicants must be between 18 and 35 and matriculants can apply using their June and September results. Online applications close on December 31, 2023, and there are limited bursaries available. The Centre of Excellence in Gqeberha is in the old Times Media Building, inBaakens Valley
PtSA is a membership-based organisation with the mission of promoting, protecting and supporting the collective interests of the tool, die, mould and special machining Industries of South Africa in support of the growth and development of all manufacturing sectors. PtSA is the only Association which focuses exclusively on the TDM Industry in South Africa and has a partnership agreement with government to support the TDM Industry.
