Penwell Nogqala lives the company values

This assurance doesn’t stop at AVK’s products – its commitment extends to its staff too.

Penwell Nogqala is the trainee Occupational Health and Safety Officer at AVK Valves in Johannesburg. Although this hasn’t always been his area of speciality.

The AVK culture, says Nogqala, is about recognising potential and developing staff along with the business. “AVK always encourages growth,” he says. AVK Valves was founded on the guiding principles of quality, continuity and close customer relations. Penwell Nogqala believes these values have shaped the company and its employees. “We live these values and always do our best to exceed people’s expectations,” he says.

Nogqala is currently undergoing training in occupational health and safety and says that this position brings new challenges and opportunities. He enjoys the challenge of identifying hazards and risks and mitigating these during his daily inspections.

Starting as a maintenance assistant, Nogqala has moved his way through the company as a stock controller, has a certificate in procurement and supply chain management, and now to health and safety. Prior to AVK, he worked in sales and customer service. He has diplomas in sales and marketing and customer service management. “AVK saw potential in me and have supported my development and sponsored my studies”, he says. “It is very special to be part of such an incredible team of people.”

Penwell Nogqala has experienced a great deal at AVK Valves, he has learned and grown and really seen the various aspects of the business. His advice to job seekers and the youth: “Start at the bottom, at grassroots, know the basics first so you can build on that. And never give up!”