professional profile
In this exclusive interview, we delve into the professional journey of NDE Western Cape Sales Manager Heinrich Vollgraaff. From studying mechanical ventilation and heavy current at the College of Cape Town to starting his own company at 21, Vollgraaff’s career has been marked by innovation and resilience. With insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the stainless steel sector, he discusses the importance of local manufacturing, the impact of global economic shifts and the exciting advancements in metal forming and manufacturing… From entrepeneur to industry leader: Heinrich Vollgraaff’s vision for Stainless Steel
What did you study after school and what is it about the discipline that attracted you to this field of study? I was born and raised in Cape Town and went to school in Durbanville. After school, I studied mechanical ventilation at the College of Cape Town for three years. This is essentially about managing the airflow in buildings, particularly in spaces like bathrooms and kitchens where a specific amount of air needs to be circulated. Additionally, I studied heavy current. I’ve always been more of a practical person, and I had a clear goal of starting my own business utilising this training. How did the first years of your career build on what you learned during your tertiary education but in a more practical setting? What were the key lessons you learned during this time? After finishing my studies at the age of 21, I opened my own company, Aircon Africa. I quickly gained customers like KFM and Tailormade Properties. Being young, I found myself in meetings with industry veterans and gained a
wealth of experience. I had to listen, make decisions, and consider all possible outcomes. A crucial lesson was to strive for win-win scenarios - not just what worked for me and my company, but also what worked for the customer and the contractor. I also learned to be open to failure and criticism and how to turn those experiences into a valuable learning opportunity.
There aren’t many 21-year-olds who start their own company. Why did you choose to do that instead of first entering a formal workplace?
I followed the example set by my family. From my Dad, in particular as he ran his own business and it seemed natural for me to follow suit. He always supported my independence, and I learned by, diving in headfirst and figuring things out as I went. This approach taught me that failure isn’t a setback but a learning opportunity. My Dad didn’t have a background in my field of study, but he did have a sales background and this support allowed me to take risks with the mentality that if it worked, great; if not, I would find another way.
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Issue 2 – 2024
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