This Women’s Month, Engen celebrates the strength, resilience and achievements of its people, with a special spotlight on Bluff resident Wendy Alerson, a Maintenance Planning Administrator at the Engen Durban Petroleum Hub. 

For Wendy, Women’s Month is both a celebration and a call to action: “It’s a time to reflect on how far we’ve come, but also on what still needs to change. It’s about encouraging the next generation and continuing to break down barriers.”

Wendy’s journey is a powerful reminder that when opportunity meets determination, young women can break barriers and thrive — even in male-dominated technical environments. 

Raised in Wentworth, Durban, Wendy credits the Engen Maths and Science School (EMSS) for laying the foundation for her career in STEM and helping her develop the confidence to chase her ambitions.

“EMSS didn’t just shape my academic path, it built my self-belief,” reflects Wendy. “It helped me cultivate problem-solving skills and a curious mindset. It was incredibly empowering and proved to me that I could succeed in a STEM field.”

Wendy was part of the EMSS programme at Fairvale Secondary School, attending free extra lessons in Maths, Science and English every Saturday from Grade 10 through to matric.

“One key lesson I still carry today is the value of perseverance. I remember how we’d tackle projects and sometimes fail — but we never gave up. Every setback taught us something new, and that mindset has stuck with me ever since.”

After matric, Wendy joined Engen and steadily worked her way up, taking on increasingly complex roles in the Operations Department. Seventeen years on, she now serves as Maintenance Planning Administrator, managing everything from roster scheduling and inventory control to financial budgeting and monthly strategy meetings.

“It can be challenging to adapt to new financial plans while ensuring full compliance,” she admits. “But I’ve had proud moments too — like implementing a new budget strategy that boosted efficiency. It’s incredibly satisfying to see your hard work pay off.”

Wendy is currently furthering her studies by pursuing a degree in Environmental Management, with Engen’s support. “I’ve always had a passion for the petrochemical industry and environmental responsibility. This degree gives me the opportunity to contribute even more meaningfully.”

Although she no longer resides in Wentworth — she’s lived on the Bluff for the past six years — Wendy remains deeply connected to her roots and is passionate about giving back. “Whether through mentoring or simply sharing my story, I try to show young women that with focus and resilience, it’s possible to achieve their goals, even in tough environments.”

Wendy’s advice to young girls currently attending EMSS is heartfelt: “Stay curious. Ask questions. Believe in yourself even when things are tough. And surround yourself with people who encourage your passions.”

One of the things she’s most proud of is helping others overcome their own challenges. “Whether it’s offering support, guidance, or just being there, that’s what gives me joy — both in my professional and personal life.”

But while there’s been progress, Wendy says more needs to be done to make technical fields more inclusive for women. “We need more female role models and mentors. And we need diversity at leadership level, where decisions are made.”

Asked what advice she’d give her teenage self, just starting at EMSS, she says: “Trust yourself more. Don’t be afraid to take up space. Your voice matters.”

Wendy lives by a simple but powerful mantra: “Do what makes you happy, as long as it causes no harm to others.”

Engen is proud to salute Wendy Alerson — a true example of how hard work, education, and the right support can change lives. 

This Women’s Month, we honour her achievements and the journey that brought her here.

#Engencares #WomensMonth #EMSS