Industrial Engineering, Operations Management & Mechanical Engineering Department

Ms Therese van Wyk
Head of Department (Acting)

The IEOMME department offers three distinct study areas that are highly complementary to each other. These areas are extremely useful in various industry scenarios and can help students gain valuable knowledge and skills that can be applied in real-world situations. The first area of study is Mechanical Engineering, which is a field of engineering that has been around for a long time. Mechanical Engineering involves the design, development, and maintenance of mechanical systems, machines, and devices. This field is highly important in manufacturing, transportation, energy production, and many other industries. Mechanical engineers are responsible for creating innovative systems, processes, and machines that make our lives easier and more efficient.

The second area of study is Industrial Engineering, which emerged from Mechanical Engineering when the industry realized that the innovative systems, processes, and machines created by mechanical engineers required the design, improvement, and installation of integrated systems that involve people, materials, equipment, and energy. Industrial Engineers are responsible for optimizing complex systems and processes by using their knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering principles. They work to improve efficiency, productivity, and safety in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. The third area of study is Operations Management, which developed when it became evident that people with specific knowledge are required to plan, organize, and supervise production processes to achieve efficiency and customer satisfaction. Operations Managers are responsible for overseeing the entire production process, from raw materials to finished products. They are responsible for ensuring that the production process runs smoothly, efficiently, and effectively. They work closely with other departments to ensure that customer demands are met, and that production goals are achieved.

Overall, these three study areas are highly complementary to each other and provide students with valuable knowledge and skills that can be applied in various industry scenarios. By choosing one of these study areas, students can gain a competitive edge in their careers and make a significant impact on the industry they choose to pursue. The Department strives towards developing world class, innovative leaders in all the programmes on offer.  We value academic excellence, quality service, responsibility and accountability, adaptability, equity, respect and integrity.  Students graduate with their first qualification with us, and they can further their vertical qualifications  with us as well.  Some choose to do their postgraduate qualifications with other institutions, but they always come back to thank the department for the strong foundation they received at VUT.