In this plumber profile, we interview and shine a spotlight on Boithabiso Mokone – a licenced Red Seal plumber, registered with the PIRB, who holds specialised certificates in heat pump and solar systems and wants to prove that women can not only succeed in plumbing, but can lead in it too.
Boithabiso Mokone.
Supplied by Boithabiso Mokone
Please tell us a little about yourself and your current role in the plumbing industry.
Before switching to plumbing, I studied Electrical Engineering N2 to N4 and gained practical experience as an electrical assistant with Standard Electrical and ADL Electrical at the Tshwane Regional Mall. That background gave me a solid technical foundation and a broader understanding of how electrical and plumbing systems work together – especially in renewable energy installations. I actively attend SONEDI (South African National Energy Development Institute) conferences and training sessions to deepen my knowledge of energy efficiency and heat pump systems. My goal is to bridge the gap between traditional plumbing and renewable energy solutions.
How did you first become involved in the plumbing industry?
I actually started with electrical engineering, studying N2 to N4 and working as an electrical assistant, but I soon realised that my true passion was plumbing. I made the switch and joined the BluLever apprenticeship programme, where I found my calling. I have always loved working with tools – there is something about fixing, building and creating with my hands that just feels right. BluLever gave me the formal training I needed to turn that natural passion into a professional career.
What has your journey in the industry been like so far?
So far, so good! It has been a steep learning curve but extremely rewarding. Switching from electrical to plumbing was a bold move, but it paid off. Attending SONEDI conferences and engaging with industry experts has been a significant highlight, as it has allowed me to build specialised knowledge in energy and heat pumps, which is a growing field. I am passionate about moving with the times and integrating sustainable energy solutions into plumbing.
What do you enjoy most about working in plumbing?
I genuinely enjoy the variety of the work. There is something deeply satisfying about both the “hot and cold” parts of the job – from installing complex heating systems to fixing a basic leak. I also really enjoy issuing COCs (Certificates of Compliance). It might sound simple, but it’s a moment where I get to officially certify that a job is safe, legal, and up to standard which gives both myself and the client peace of mind.
What has been one of the biggest challenges you have faced in your career, and how did you overcome it?
Being in a male-dominated industry has been my biggest challenge, but I overcame it by giving it time. I focused on learning the craft thoroughly and letting my work speak for itself. I gave my colleagues time to understand my capabilities and to see that we are all on the same team, working toward the same goal.
What achievement or moment in your career are you most proud of?
One of my proudest achievements was making history at BluLever as the first female top student – it proved that women do not just belong in this industry, we can lead in it. Another pivotal moment was obtaining my Red Seal certification and PIRB registration. I am also incredibly proud of earning my heat pump and solar system certificates, which give me the technical edge to offer modern, energy-efficient solutions to my clients. On the business side, earning my entrepreneurship certificate through the Allan Gray foundation has given me the skills and confidence to pursue my dream of owning my own company. Attending SONEDI events and networking with leaders in renewable energy has been a significant step, and honestly, every time I sign off a COC knowing the work is 100% compliant, I feel a real sense of pride and accountability.
How has the plumbing industry changed since you first became involved?
The industry is becoming much more technologically advanced – there is a huge shift toward energy efficiency and alternative energy sources like solar and heat pumps. The days of just fixing pipes are over – we are now energy consultants and solution providers.
What do you believe are some of the biggest challenges currently facing the plumbing industry?
One of the biggest challenges is that we desperately need more women in the industry. Plumbing is still unfairly seen as “a man’s job,” which discourages many talented women from even considering it as a career. We are missing out on so much potential and so many fresh perspectives. Beyond that, the industry also has to deal with regulatory changes and the pressure to adopt green technologies, which demands continuous learning.
What opportunities do you see for the future of plumbing in South Africa?
The future is bright, especially in the renewable energy sector. With South Africa’s energy crisis, plumbers who specialise in heat pumps, solar systems, and greywater systems are becoming essential. There is a massive opportunity for plumbers to become energy-saving heroes.
| Boithabiso’s advice to anyone looking at plumbing as a career:
The industry is evolving, and if you are willing to learn, the opportunities are endless. Do not just think of it as a manual job; think of it as a career in engineering and science. |
What is one thing you wish more people understood about the plumbing industry?
I wish people understood how sophisticated the work is. We are not just “turning wrenches.” We are engineers, problem solvers, and increasingly, energy experts. Issuing a COC is not just a piece of paper – it is our professional stamp guaranteeing the work’s safety and quality.
What keeps you motivated and passionate about the work you do?
What keeps me motivated is knowing that I have a talent, that I followed my dreams, and that I never forget to show up for myself. Every day I choose to show up, give my best, and prove that I belong here – not just for me, but for every young woman from villages like Ntwane who might be watching.
Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
My brothers, without a doubt. They inspired me to become an artisan and showed me that a trade is a respected and valuable career path. On top of that, I’ve always loved working with tools, so the combination of their influence and my natural passion made plumbing a perfect fit. The BluLever apprenticeship laid the formal foundation, and attending SONEDI conferences has further shaped my direction by exposing me to the latest innovations in renewable energy.
What are your hopes or goals for your future in plumbing?
My ultimate goal is to build and run a successful, fully operating plumbing company of my own. Thanks to the Allan Gray entrepreneurship certificate, I now have the business foundation to turn that dream into reality. I want my company to be a leading name in renewable energy solutions, specialising in heat pumps and solar systems, while also serving as a platform to mentor and bring more young women into the trade. I want to prove that women can not only succeed in plumbing but can lead in it too.
