This programme is well-suited to those with an interest in the design and operation of heavy machinery as well as production and manufacturing engineering. Mechanical engineering technicians could also work with steam plants at power stations, at vulcanising plants, pump stations and irrigation schemes, and with mining machinery and ore crushers. Manufacturing and production processes (also those used by the food and textile industries), as well as the planning, maintenance and optimisation of processes, are further facets of this field of study. The services of qualified persons are also often sought in the design of mechanical equipment. A promising future awaits qualified persons as installation engineers, technical representatives, production development engineers or works managers. They can establish their own engineering works or find employment with mines or the steel plants of Iscor, or with Eskom, PRASA, Transnet Freight Rail, consulting engineering firms, or suppliers of mechanical equipment. The motor industry is another possible employer. Opportunities also exist in the chemical processing industry (e.g. Sasol), the construction and building industry, as well as provincial government and municipal services. Emphasis is placed on entrepreneurship. A person holding this qualification can also start his/her own business.