Pioneering Professional Engineer and Leader in Pavement Engineering
Mirriam Ramoba (Mosia) stands as a beacon of excellence and innovation in the field of civil engineering, distinguished by her role as a Professional Engineer registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). With an educational foundation rooted in a BSc degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Cape Town, complemented by a postgraduate Honours degree in Transportation Engineering from the University of Pretoria, Mirriam has carved a niche for herself as a leading figure in pavement engineering and project management.
International Experience and Leadership: In 2007, Mirriam’s career trajectory took a significant leap forward when she participated in an international exchange programme led by the former Deputy President of South Africa, Ms Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka. This prestigious opportunity placed her at Royal Haskoning in the UK, Haywards Heath, where she contributed to critical flood prevention scheme projects. Her work involved designing and quantifying structures within ship docks, a challenging environment marked by adverse weather conditions and the corrosive nature of sea salty water. This experience not only broadened her technical expertise but also enhanced her adaptability and global perspective on engineering solutions.
Dedication to Roads and Pavement Engineering: Currently serving as the President of the South African Roads Federation (SARF), Mirriam embodies leadership and commitment to the advancement of road infrastructure. Her role as Project Manager and Pavement Engineering Specialist at the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) sees her at the forefront of managing and executing predominantly road projects, bridging the gap between consulting engineering and road authority perspectives. With 22 years of experience under her belt, her contributions span a wide array of projects, underscoring her versatility and deep understanding of the nuances of road construction and maintenance.
Advocacy and Mentorship: Beyond her professional achievements, Mirriam has been a fervent advocate for youth empowerment and gender equality within the engineering sector. Her presidency of the CESA Young Professionals Forum in 2008, participation in the PIARC World Road Association Technical Committee D4.2 for Pavement Engineering (2016-2019), and involvement in various procurement committees at SANRAL are testament to her leadership and commitment to mentorship. Mirriam is passionate about inspiring young women, especially Grade 11/12 learners, reinforcing the message that women can not only succeed but excel in the civil engineering world. She firmly believes that while safety boots and hard hats may be pink, the competence and intelligence women bring to the field are unparalleled.
A Model of Professional Excellence: Mirriam Ramoba (Mosia)’s journey is a narrative of dedication, excellence, and pioneering spirit. As she continues to lead, innovate, and inspire, her impact on the engineering community and beyond remains profound. Through her work and advocacy, Mirriam paves the way for the next generation of engineers, demonstrating that with passion, resilience, and expertise, one can indeed make a significant difference in the world.
