Keeping track of things
MEET Lulama Mpulampula, Gautrain Operations Control Centre controller, as she tells us about her line of work.
CRUCIAL POSITION: Lulama Mpulampula, Gautrain operations controller. Picture by Mabuti KaliWhat do you do?
I am an OCC controller with the Bombela Operating Company (BOC), which operates and maintains the Gautrain system.
What does a typical day in the life of an operations controller entail?
My job involves monitoring the operations of trains to ensure they run on time and that every system in the Gautrain network operates efficiently and that passengers are safe.
This includes monitoring such aspects as CCTV, communications systems, signalling, lifts, escalators and reporting any faults.
What did you do before?
I worked for Transnet Freight Rail as a train control officer and then joined BOC in 2009.
What challenges do you face?
As an OCC controller you always need to be on high alert and react quickly in the case of an incident and try to manage the situation as best as you know how.
What do you like and dislike about your job?
Being an OCC Controller allows one to work independently and make decisions that affect the way the Gautrain system is operated.
I have to work most weekends and public holidays. Like most shift workers, this might mean waking up in the early hours of the morning to prepare for morning shifts.
Has it always been your dream to do what you do?
At school I was passionate about economics and never thought that I would be working in this field until this opportunity presented itself and I developed a liking for it.
What's the worst thing that ever happened to you in your line of duty and how did you overcome it?
In the event of an incident, the safety of passengers always comes first and then ensuring you minimise any further delays.
What and where did you study?
I obtained a Diploma in Train Working in 2002 from the Esselenpark Centre of Excellence. In 2009 I obtained a Certificate as an OCC Controller through training provided by BOC.
Where do you see yourself in the near future?
There are different opportunities in the railway industry, and many that have become available to women. I will explore any opportunities that might be presented to me in the industry.
If you were not doing what you are doing today, what do you think you would be doing and why?
I would probably have pursued a career in economics if I were not doing what I do now.
What advice do you have for young people who would like to do your kind of job?
Hard work and perseverance will reward you in the future.
Even if you're not doing what you love now, integrity is important as this might be the door that leads you to your dream.
Hard work, discipline and commitment will always pay off at the end of the day.
- aprila@sundayworld.co.za
