The Society for Asphalt Technology joins the South African civil engineering community in paying tribute to Johan de Koker, who passed on Friday 1 December.
Many members of SAT have worked alongside Johan in his quest to raise professionalism in the profession and recognition for the talented engineers who build and maintain South Africa’s built environment.
“This year SAT has collaborated closely with Johan in his capacity as CEO of the Institute of Professional Engineering Technologists (IPET) to create a common audit programme for ECSA,” says John Onraet, SAT Operations Manager.
Johan’s dedication to civil engineering far exceeded the bounds of his daily job. His association with IPET spanned 34 years and he worked for several years as the organisation’s Pro Bono Marketing Manager. He was a Council Member and served two two-year terms as President.
He also served the SAICE for more than 40 years, and as President in 2008. Johan also played a significant role in the teaching and mentoring of students at the University of Johannesburg, culminating in six years as Head of the Department of Civil Engineering Technology.
“We will miss Johan the person and Johan the professional,” says John Onraet. “He was a shining example of selfless dedication to his chosen field and the people in it. The loss of his great positive influence leaves a chasm that will be hard to fill.”
SAT extends condolences to Johan’s family, friends and colleagues.
