Thando Ngema (30)
Technical trainer and specialist: Jaguar Land Rover SA
Background
I was born and raised in Katlehong on the East Rand, in a household led by my mother and my late grandmother, who were both the providers in our family and taught me what it meant to work hard and stay focused. I didn’t have the opportunity to pursue my dream of studying Mechanical Engineering at university, but my passion for the field never faded. After matric, I started knocking on doors at dealerships, determined to find a way into the industry. I met Marcia Mayaba, then the dealer principal at Lindsay Saker VW Alberton, who saw my potential and soon I joined their apprentice programme. From there, I qualified as a technician and began building my career. The real turning point came when I joined JLR, where technical opportunities opened up for me. They helped shape a development plan tailored to my aspirations, ensuring I had the training, mentorship, and exposure I needed to succeed.
Take us through an average day in your role
As a technical trainer, I’m responsible for developing technicians across our house of brands – Range Rover, Defender, Discovery and Jaguar – ensuring they know how to service, diagnose, and repair vehicles to the highest standard. I specialise in delivering courses such as diagnostics, basic electrics, service, maintenance and inspection, steering and wheel alignment, air-conditioning systems, as well as electric vehicles. A typical session includes a guided presentation aligned with the course objectives, supported by a detailed student guide. Training at JLR isn’t just about technical skill – it’s also about building a culture of quality, attention to detail and customer love.
What makes your position rewarding?
The feedback I receive from the technicians. Knowing that something I taught helped them grow in their roles or solve a particular challenge. As a female technical trainer, those moments carry even more meaning. They show that my presence and contribution are valid and valuable. There’s a deep sense of pride in realising that you’re genuinely good at what you do, and that what you do has a positive impact on others.
What about the challenges?
The automotive industry is incredibly fast-paced and constantly evolving, especially at a brand like JLR, where innovation evolves. One of the biggest challenges is keeping up with the continuous stream of updates to our systems and technologies. Switching between topics, preparing content, and retaining the depth of technical detail needed can be mentally demanding. To stay ahead, JLR provides us with an internal platform that keeps us informed of every system upgrade – how it works, the needed skills, and how to apply it within specific time frames. It’s not just a matter of learning something new – it’s about constantly adapting. I often say it’s like doing a software update on your brain. Every time technology evolves, your mindset needs to evolve with it.
Where to next?
I’d like to grow within the JLR global ecosystem, especially in more technical and developmental capacities. One goal is to join the Learning and Technical Services team or move into an engineering role – whether here at JLR South Africa or on the global stage. I’m inspired by the Jaguar TCS Racing Formula E team. The technical challenges of motorsport – advanced diagnostics, vehicle dynamics, race strategy – are areas I’d love to explore. Being a female technical trainer gives me a unique vantage point, and I’d fully embrace an opportunity to contribute behind the scenes. What reinforces my excitement is seeing female leaders thriving within Jaguar TCS Racing. These women are taking on roles across engineering leadership, digital systems, race-team strategy, vehicle diagnostics, and performance analysis.
What do you drive and what do you see yourself driving five years from now?
Working with the JLR family of vehicles has deepened my love for the brand in a personal way. Each model tells its own story – whether it’s the adventurous spirit of the Defender 90 or 110, the refined elegance of the Range Rover Sport or the bold innovation of the Discovery. In five years, I see myself behind the wheel of one of these iconic vehicles – each one representing a different side of my personality.