The chic mechanic

Being a truck technician is not commonplace for ladies in Kenya. LYDIA LIMBE speaks to EDNAH SYOMITI, 24, one of the only three lady technicians in Kenya, about her career as a mechanic for Heno Trucks

Q: Being a vehicle technician is not a usual career path for women. Why did you choose it?

E: This is a passion I have nurtured since I was a little child. My grandfather was a mechanical engineer, and I used to change the engine oil with him and help him with other mechanical tasks. From then, I knew I wanted to be technician when I grow up. Mechanical engineering was an easy choice when filling out university forms in high school.

Q: What was the experience for you doing your course work?

E: I was the only lady undertaking Mechanical Technician Diploma at Railway Technical Institute but amazingly, not once did I feel intimidated by my male classmates. Instead, they encouraged me immensely, treating me as an equal all through.

Q: How did your parents and friends react when they discovered you are serious about pursuing your career as a mechanical technician?

E: My parents were definitely not for my career choice, and so were my friends. The only person who supported me and encouraged me consistently was my grandfather. Along the way, however, they learnt to accept my choice.

Q: How long does it take for one to be a fully qualified mechanical technician?

E: A diploma course averages three years. The student then is required to attend industrial attachment for three years, before being recognised as a fully certified mechanical technician.

Q: Isn’t being a truck technician a physically taxing job?

E: Not at all. At Heno Trucks, we have machines to do the heavy lifting. I do not have to use any extra physical strength than normal.

Q: Aren’t you ever concerned that the oils may spill on your clothes, your hair or nails?

E: We have protective clothing including overalls, gloves and headgear that protect us from accidents.

Q: What gives you the satisfaction in what you do?

E: Trucks differ in model. I love it when I am able to understand each model, and work with it to the client’s satisfaction. I feel honoured when clients come here and specifically ask for me. It gives me confidence, and reassures me of my career choice.

Q: Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

E: In addition to servicing trucks, I would also like to engage in selling them. In my opinion, my mechanical understanding of the trucks will be very handy in convincing and responding to clients’ queries from a point of knowledge.

Q: What advice would you give to those who are inspired by your story?

E: Being a technician is very marketable and well paying, especially for ladies. Do not worry about people’s reaction. Just follow your heart, and everything will fall into place.

Q: What do you do at your free time?

E: I love to go swimming and read books when I’m not working.

Q: Who is Ednah, in your own words?

E: I am simple lady who loves servicing trucks!