Jomo has been working in the construction industry for 12 years where he has gone from brick-layering to operating cranes. In this article he shares his experience.

Cilulami Tuguzo, better known as Jomo, is a crane operator for Siya Zama Construction - a well-known construction company with operations across South Africa. He gave us a sneak peek of his job so we could learn more about his career in construction.

Jomo says that his career as a crane operator begun 12 years ago. He explains: “In 2006, I started off as a general. My job at the time involved plastering and brick-layering. My manager was impressed with my work ethic, and suggested that I train as a crane operator.” Jomo says he was ecstatic at the news, and couldn’t wait to start his training. “I had always dreamed of becoming a crane operator,” he says. 

Crane operators operate mobile or stationary machinery to lift, move or reposition loads. They need to ensure the safe conveyance of materials and equipment around a construction or industrial site. They also need to work and communicate with ground crew via hand signals and must work within precise limits and set standards of accuracy.

Jomo started off his training as a director on the ground where his responsibility was to direct other crane operators to move materials across the ground of a construction site. “Thereafter, I took the driver’s seat and learnt how to operate the machine,” Jomo explains.

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“I love operating the machines – they give me a sense of freedom. I also love that my job gives me a sense of pride. Sometimes when I drive pass a site I point out to a site and tell my family that I’m involved in its architecture and show them the machines I work with,” Jomo says.

“I also love and appreciate the support that I get from management. They always compliment me and show appreciation for what I do,” Jomo adds.

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To be successful in becoming a crane operator Jomo suggests that people need to be willing to start learning the trade from the ground. “Once you are familiar with directing from the ground, it becomes easier to manoeuver the crane.”

Passion for the job is also important, he adds. “They need to love operating machines because it will make it easier for them to learn the skills needed to be a successful crane operator.”

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