Olma Raphulu

A seasoned Mechanical Engineering and Strategic Operations professional with over 15 years of progressive experience across military, municipal and academic environments. Proven expertise in marine engineering operations, workshop and asset management, contractor oversight and technical leadership, supported by strong capabilities in strategic planning, policy development, budgeting, and infrastructure maintenance. Currently serving as an Assistant Marine Engineering Officer in the South African Navy (SANDF), with a demonstrated record of improving operational efficiency, equipment reliability, safety compliance, and cost control.

Seeking to progress into a senior technical or managerial role where I can apply my experience in engineering operations, maintenance strategy, contractor management, and performance optimisation to support organisational growth, profitability, and sustainable development. Currently awaiting audit of a Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Honours) in Mechanical Engineering and preparing to enroll for a Master of Engineering qualification, with a strong commitment to continuous professional development and staying abreast of evolving technical products, industry standards, and market requirements.

Assistant Marine Engineering Officer - South African Navy (SANDF) - Western Cape, South Africa

(2018-01)

• Assist the Marine Engineering Officer (MEO) in supervising and managing all departmental operations.
• Plan, coordinate and monitor scheduled and corrective maintenance of all mechanical and electrical equipment and systems.
• Conduct root cause and condition analysis to enhance technical readiness and asset lifespan.
• Ensure safe and efficient operation of marine systems through compliance with naval and engineering standards.
• Perform sea watch-keeping duties for power generation and propulsion systems.
• Serve as Officer of the Day while alongside in harbor, ensuring shipboard safety and discipline.
• Lead and participate in Nuclear, Biological, Chemical and Damage Control (NBCD) drills and incident responses.
• Mentor junior technicians and assist in interdepartmental technical training and professional development.
• Support the documentation of engineering processes, compliance reports and strategic planning initiatives.
• Serve as Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator overseeing departmental safety programs.

Assistant Technical Workshop Manager / Mechanical Fitter Trainee - Makhado Local Municipality - Limpopo Province

(2012-01 - 2016-01)

• Provided administrative and technical support in managing the municipal workshop.
• Allocated maintenance tasks and managed job card systems for efficiency tracking.
• Oversaw mechanical repairs and diagnostics for light and heavy vehicles, earthmoving machines, waste management equipment and small tools.
• Coordinated outsourced maintenance projects, ensuring quality assurance and compliance with municipal standards.
• Maintained workshop assets, ensuring optimal tool condition and inventory accuracy.
• Conducted preventive maintenance planning and implemented safety and compliance measures.
• Assisting in developing workshop procedures, conducting safety inductions and ensuring learning outcomes aligned with technical standards.
• Contributed to stock control, maintenance record keeping and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity.

Mechanical Engineering Workshop Student Assistant - Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) - Gauteng Province

(2010-01 - 2010-10)

• Supported the SASOL BAJA project, assisting with workshop operations and student technical activities.
• Conducted welding, machining and mechanical assembly tasks under supervision.
• Assisted in interpreting technical drawings and preparing workshop layouts.
• Maintained tool calibration, workshop cleanliness and compliance with health and safety standards.

Bachelor of Engineering Technology Honours - Mechanical Engineering - University of South Africa (UNISA)

Advanced Diploma - Mechanical Engineering - University of South Africa (UNISA) (2023)

National Diploma - Mechanical Engineering - Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) (2016)

National Senior Certificate - Bachelor Pass - Mavhungu Andries Secondary School (2008)