Mikayla van Aardt

Graduate Metallurgical Engineer from the University of Pretoria, graduated in 2025, with strong foundations in extractive metallurgy (pyro- and hydrometallurgy), mineral processing, physical metallurgy, materials science, corrosion and welding metallurgy. Experienced in applying engineering theory to practical industrial challenges, including optimising ICDP rolls for hot rolling mills and leading a multidisciplinary project to develop a feasible hydrometallurgical PCB recycling plant. Passionate about sustainable metallurgy, metal recovery and process optimisation, with a strong analytical mindset and proven problem-solving skills.

Information Technology Assistant at University of Pretoria (2023-03 – 2025-11)

Managed computer laboratory facilities to ensure functional, safe, and orderly workspaces. Enforced lab policies, performed asset management, and provided technical support.

• Managed computer laboratory facilities to ensure functional, safe, and orderly workspaces.
• Enforced lab policies and code of conduct to maintain a productive academic environment.
• Performed asset management, including tracking, maintenance, and documentation of equipment.
• Provided client service and user support to students and staff in a professional manner.
• Collected and recorded operational data related to lab usage and equipment performance.
• Delivered first-line technical support for hardware and software issues.
• Conducted routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and basic repairs on computer systems and peripherals.

Metallurgical Engineering Intern at South African Roll Company (Pty) Ltd (2024-01 – 2025-02)

Participated in technical discussions on industrial casting processes and assisted with defect analysis, spectrometry, and microstructural characterization of cast components. Investigated heat treatment effects on carbide formation and hardness.

• Participated in technical discussions on industrial casting processes, observing casting, hot stripping, and welding operations in a production environment.
• Assisted with defect analysis, spectrometry, and microstructural characterization of cast components to support quality and failure investigations.
• Investigated the effect of tempering heat treatment on carbide formation and hardness while supporting engineers with technical inquiries and data gathering.

Metallurgical Engineering Intern at Vaal Metallurgical Laboratorium (Pty) Ltd (2022-07 – 2023-07)

Prepared metallurgical samples for analysis, conducted corrosion and bend tests, and performed microstructural examination and failure analysis of steel components.

• Prepared metallurgical samples for light microscopy and microstructural examination.
• Conducted corrosion and bend tests on stainless steel samples.
• Analysed microstructures to assess material quality and integrity.
• Performed inter-laboratory sample comparisons to validate test results.
• Identified probable causes of steel failure using metallurgical principles.
• Conducted tensile, impact, and hardness testing (Brinell, Vickers, Rockwell B & C).
• Assisted with chemical and XRF analysis of material samples.

Tutor at University of Pretoria (2022-02 – 2022-11)

Assisted students during lectures and consultation sessions. Provided academic support through problem-solving guidance and concept clarification. Marked assessments and provided constructive feedback.

• Assisted students during lectures and consultation sessions to enhance understanding of course material.
• Provided academic support through problem-solving guidance and concept clarification.
• Marked student assessments and provided constructive feedback.

Waiter at Mugg & Bean (2021-12 – 2023-01)

Delivered professional customer service in a fast-paced environment. Assisted with facilities upkeep and operational standards.

• Delivered professional customer service in a fast-paced environment.
• Assisted with facilities upkeep and operational standards.

Bachelor of Engineering in Metallurgical Engineering – University of Pretoria (2025)

Matric Certificate – Vereeniging Gimnasium (2019)