Rachael Gillespie

Rachael Gillespie is the general manager and a director of Rotacon Engineering, based in Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal. With nearly three decades of service in the engineering sector, her leadership story is one of resilience, perseverance, and a deep commitment to people.

Rachael’s education did not follow a conventional uni versity pathway. Instead, her real education began in 1996, the day she walked through the doors of Rotacon Engineering. At the time, she was a young woman with no formal qualifications, no computer literacy, and no prior exposure to the engineering environment. “My real learning began the day I stepped into Rotacon Engineering,” she says. “I had no qualifications, but I was willing to work, to listen, and to grow. Everything I know today about business, engineering, and leader-ship I learnt hands-on through experience, mentorship, and perseverance.”

Her working life began humbly. Rachael’s very first job was packing shelves at a local supermarket. Teaching had once been her dream, but she missed the application cut-off for university. An attempt to join the police force also fell through when a required document was missing on the final day of application. Later, she was accepted to study for a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, but financial constraints made this impossible. “I was determined to work,” she recalls. “I said I would do anything as long as I was working.” She secured a job packing shelves and, within two weeks, was promoted to slicing bread. It was during this time that a turning point occurred. Her mother, seeing her in the supermarket, returned home in tears, believing her daughter was capable of more. At the time, Rachael’s father was working as a welder at Rotacon Engineering, and her twin sister was employed there as a receptionist. Through a family conversation and a sacrifice by her twin sister Leah, a position was made available for Rachael.

CURIOSITY AND PURPOSE

In 1996, Rachael joined Rotacon Engineering as a receptionist. Her early responsibilities were simple but essential. She answered telephones, filed documents, made tea for visitors, managed petty cash, and supported daily office tasks. Yet even then, she approached her role with curiosity and purpose. “I was like a sponge,” she says. “I wanted to learn everything about the business.” Over the years, Rachael steadily worked her way through the organisation. From reception, she moved into procurement, where she learned how to buy tools and materials. She then transitioned into operations, gaining an understanding of job processes, planning, and execution within an engineering environment. Each step forward was guided by observation, patience, and the generosity of colleagues willing to share their knowledge. “I learnt by listening and by remaining teachable,” she explains. “Some people are afraid to share knowledge because they feel threatened, but I am thankful I learnt from people who were willing to teach me. Even today, I am still learning.”

WORK ANNIVERSARY

In March 2026, Rachael celebrates her 30-year work anniversary with the company. This milestone represents more than longevity. It reflects loyalty, growth, and an uncommon commitment in a world where few remain with one organisation for decades. “My journey started in 1996 as a receptionist,” she says. “To still be here 30 years later, now as general manager, is something I am deeply proud of. It has been an exciting journey, and God willing, it will continue for many more years so that we can create opportunities for others.” Today, Rachael holds an 87 percent shareholding in Rotacon Engineering and oversees operations, customer relationships, staff development, and strategic planning. Her purpose in leadership is both personal and collective. “For me, it is about honouring the legacy that has been entrusted to me,” she says. “My husband Dennis Gillespie placed his trust in me to run the business, and I want to honour that. I also want to inspire others, to show that from humble beginnings, anything is possible.” For the business, her vision is grounded in integrity and social upliftment. She is passionate about building a company known for quality, ethical conduct, and its contribution to the community. “We want the business to prosper so that we can be a blessing to others,” she explains. “By creating employment, we strengthen families and communities.”

ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE

One of Rachael’s proudest accomplishments is becoming the major shareholder in the business, especially given where her journey began. As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, this achievement carries additional significance. “There is a perception that women do not belong in engineering,” she says. “But I want women to know that anything is possible. Through hard work, dedication, and belief in yourself, you can succeed.” The best advice Rachael has received is simple yet powerful: never forget where you come from. “It keeps you grounded and humble,” she says. “As you succeed, it is easy to forget your beginnings but remembering them shapes how you treat people.” Her faith plays a central role in her life and leadership. She draws inspiration from her church, her biblical principles as well as her pastor Ralph Ellaya’s teachings. “We can learn even from something as small as an ant,” she reflects. “It is always working, always preparing. Never despise small beginnings.

When it comes to motivating her team, Rachael leads with respect and perspective. She reminds employees that every role matters, from the cleaner to the most senior technician. “Everyone plays an important part,” she says. “Just like the body needs every member, the business needs every person.” 

Looking ahead, Rachael’s vision for the next five years is growth with purpose. She aims to diversify operations, expand capacity, and invest in machinery, all with the goal of creating sustainable employment in KwaZulu-Natal. Her personal motto reflects the values that have shaped her journey: do not forsake small beginnings, never forget where you came from, work hard, stay humble, and put God first. “He is the source of everything,” she says. “He makes all things possible.