Nozibusiso Bongekile Busisiwe Nkomo

Nozibusiso Bongekile Busisiwe Nkomo, a 2025 Student Ambassador for EIT, brings over 23 years of experience in equipment maintenance, planning, and asset management to her new role. With a passion for mentorship, Nozibusiso is dedicated to helping students from diverse backgrounds succeed in their engineering studies, guiding them toward both academic and professional success.

For Nozibusiso, the journey into engineering education is a continuation of a rich and accomplished career.

With an MBA and the completion of the 52884WA Advanced Diploma of Mechanical Engineering Technology at the Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT) in November 2024, she is also optimistic about pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at some stage.

Her wealth of experience in maintenance processes, SAP system projects, and shutdown management in industries such as mining and smelting has given her a unique perspective on the intersection of theory and real-world engineering.

As an EIT Student Ambassador, she is excited to support and mentor fellow students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Her experience has shown her the profound impact that relatable mentors can have on inspiring confidence and ambition in others.

“Mentorship allows for shared experiences, offering guidance, encouragement, and practical advice,” Nozibusiso said. “Helping students realize their potential is incredibly fulfilling, and I view it as both a responsibility and a privilege to empower the next generation of engineers.”

Nozibusiso’s approach to balancing her role as an ambassador with her professional career and ongoing studies is one rooted in effective time management and flexibility. “I establish clear priorities for each area—academic, ambassadorial, and professional—and this helps me manage my responsibilities efficiently,” she explained.

Guiding Students through Mentorship and Experience

With over two decades of experience in equipment maintenance and asset management, Nozibusiso brings a wealth of knowledge to her ambassadorial role.

She believes that one of the greatest benefits she can offer students is her deep understanding of the practical applications of mechanical engineering.

“My background has allowed me to connect theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, making learning more intuitive and relevant,” she noted.

Nozibusiso is especially passionate about offering advice to prospective students, especially in South Africa, considering a career in mechanical engineering.

“Innovation is key in mechanical engineering. Whether it’s renewable energy systems or advanced manufacturing technologies, staying curious and open to learning will fuel your growth.”

For those considering the 52884WA Advanced Diploma of Mechanical Engineering Technology, she encourages students to embrace the hands-on, problem-solving nature of the program, highlighting the real-world projects, troubleshooting, and lab work that come with it.

Building a Bridge Between Experience and Education

Nozibusiso’s decision to pursue the 52884WA Advanced Diploma of Mechanical Engineering Technology at EIT was driven by a desire to deepen her technical expertise and stay ahead in an evolving industry.

“The qualification complemented my existing experience by enhancing my knowledge in areas like thermodynamics, materials science, and advanced design,” she shared. “It provided a stronger engineering foundation, while also bridging knowledge gaps that my extensive career didn’t address.”

She credits EIT’s curriculum for helping her integrate advanced maintenance strategies into her work, particularly around predictive analytics and reliability-centered maintenance. These skills, she believes, are vital for her leadership goals in large-scale project management and team optimization.

“The hands-on approach at EIT has also been instrumental in making the lessons more applicable to my career. Bridging theory with real-world applications has been one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned.”

Advocating for EIT’s Community and Resources

Looking ahead, Nozibusiso is excited to continue her studies at EIT, particularly in pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in the near future. She sees this as a crucial step in further expanding her career opportunities.

“The Bachelor’s degree will allow me to access even more advanced roles in leadership, research, and innovation, reinforcing my commitment to continuous growth,” she explained.

Beyond academics, Nozibusiso is determined to carry forward the core values of integrity, safety, and professionalism that have guided her career thus far.

“These values are fundamental to building trust and respect in the workplace, and they’re just as important in academic settings,” she said.

“I prioritize fairness, transparency, and accountability in everything I do, and these principles will continue to guide my work as a student ambassador and future engineer.”

As an EIT Student Ambassador, Nozibusiso is eager to share the invaluable resources and support available at EIT, from the mentorship opportunities to the knowledgeable lecturers and student services that helped her throughout her journey.

“EIT’s commitment to student success is evident in the way they integrate practical learning into the curriculum, and I want to highlight these aspects to potential students,” she said.

By promoting these unique opportunities, Nozibusiso aims to inspire prospective students and help them understand how EIT can provide the tools they need to succeed both in their studies and future careers. She believes that, with the right guidance and support, students can transition seamlessly into the academic environment and thrive.

Empowering the Next Generation of Engineers

Nozibusiso’s work as a 2025 Student Ambassador represents more than just her commitment to EIT — it’s a reflection of her dedication to mentoring, leadership, and creating pathways for others to succeed.

“My journey has taught me the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, and giving back to the community. I hope to inspire others to follow their passion, pursue their goals, and make an impact in the world of engineering.”

As a student ambassador, Nozibusiso embodies EIT’s values of integrity, safety, and professionalism, while sharing her expertise and experiences to help foster the next generation of engineering leaders.