POLOKWANE – Philemon Mashita (59), a father of four and grandfather to three children, still has the work ethic and adrenaline after 40 years as a valued and reliable employee at Reinforcing Steel Contractors (RSC).
Over the years, Mashita has been able to support his children Yvonne (39), twins France and Jack (37) and Nakedi (29) who are all educated and independent, as well as his wife Georgina, thanks to a successful career at RSC for which he is thankful.
Mashita joined RSC in 1983 in the repairs department, working his way through the ranks in various departments.
Today, he serves the company as sales manager.
RSC Polokwane manager, John Ross told Polokwane Observer that it was easy for them to right from the start entrust Mashita with their projects.
“He has more positive and inspirational stories within the company in a decade, than I will be gather in a lifetime, and this shows how much of a dedicated worker he is. He is a respectful employee who follows instructions just as easy as he can train others. We trust his judgement.”
Ross further describes Mashita as an asset to the company, a caring, kind and dedicated individual who’s always willing to assist.
“This man is a ‘mountain’ of knowledge – he is literally skilled in every department. He’s humble, but also would not let anyone take advantage of his kindness because he knows his worth.”
Mashita told Polokwane Observer that he feels privileged to have worked for the same company for 40 years, as it has allowed him to grow as a person and as an employee.
“I know and understand every department and I’ve been taking the responsibility of training new candidates to make sure that they’re all on the same page. Every time a new manager comes in, they rely on me to train them and I do that with pleasure because I love this job,” Mashita said.
He says his life experience, and that which he learned over a long career, has taught him how to spot potential in employees.
“I truly appreciate our management for being such good colleagues. My motto in the workplace is that teamwork makes what’s impossible to do alone, possible. Alone we might be small, but together we can stand some giant’s tall.”
RSC is a one-stop shop solution for construction firms and walk-in do it yourself (DIY) customers offering construction materials at competitive prices. They also deliver to your doorstep.
There are 24 branches across the country and neighbouring countries.
Polokwane branch: 21 Kobalt Street.
Phone: (015) 292 0111.
Email: polokwane@rsh.co.za
Open Mon-Thur: 07:30-16:15.
Fri: 07:30-12:00.
