Discover the inspiring journey of Tonny Oryem, a stalwart at TASC, as he reflects on years of dedication, evolving training needs, and personal growth. In this interview, Mr. Oryem offers insights and shares memorable moments and success stories that highlight his TASC experience.

How did you start your journey with TASC, and what has kept you here for so long?

In 2017, I began my career with TASC as a trainee. After 5 months of training in 3G Coded welding, TASC recruited me as an assistant welding trainer for 3 years. During that time, I was able to obtain various training and certifications from international certifying bodies such as City and Guilds, Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB), and American Welding Society.

During my time at TASC, I was able to learn more about training, administration, project implementation and execution. Based on those experiences and skills acquired, I was promoted to a training coordinator, a position I presently occupy.

Over the years, how have you seen the training needs evolve, and how has TASC adapted to these shifts?

Due to the growth of the oil and gas industry in Uganda, there is a demand for competent and qualified workers who are internationally certified in the following areas: welding, electrical, plumbing, scaffolding, and several EHS courses.

TASC has been able to provide soft skill courses such as entrepreneurship and communication skills, which have assisted graduates in starting their own businesses as opposed to solely looking at oil and gas as the only industry where trainees can work.

Can you recall a particular training session or moment that stands out as especially rewarding or impactful for you?

My Favorite memory is when I completed TEPU welder training and certification within the allotted time frame. This was accomplished through the combined efforts of many departments.

Are there any past trainees who’ve gone on to do remarkable things, thanks to the training at TASC? Any stories you’d like to share?

Given the entrepreneurship and communication skills acquired by the training at the completion of their technical trainings, some trainees have decided to launch their own businesses and workshops, creating jobs in the communities in which they operate, and they include:

1. Bajjo Metal Works – Buliisa District;
2. His Will Metal Works – Wakiso District; and
3. Wajack Metal Works – Hoima City.
4. Nwoya coded welders association – Nwoya District
5. Kats Fabricators – Kampala
6. Hoima City’s Ayebale and Sons Workshop
7. Namanve Coded Welders and Contractors Uganda Limited
8. Lule Metal Workshop-Rakai District
9. Musa Metal works- Juba , South Sudan

The companies listed above are not only undertaking general fabrications, but they are also training students from universities and technical schools.

In terms of personal development, how have the training and experiences at TASC shaped you as a professional and as an individual?

I have developed knowledge and abilities in areas such as
1.Non Destructive Testing / Quality Control
2. Project planning and execution
3. Training abilities
4. Administrative abilities
5. Course pricing

What sets TASC’s training programs apart from others in the industry? Why should someone choose TASC for their health and safety training?

TASC has Mobile Training Units that able to access any location across the country which has made training accessible to everyone regardless of their location. Through the MTU, TASC was able to partner with MADFA in Masindi to train farmers on how to fabricate agro-machines.

TASC training model encompasses all aspects of training, the practical element, health and safety and soft skills training as a holistic approach. TASC offers a variety of EHS courses that suit all sectors such as transport, manufacturing etc.

Where do you see the future of training at TASC? Are there any exciting new initiatives or programs on the horizon?

The future of technical training is expected to undergo significant changes driven by technological advancements, a focus on flexibility and personalization, and an emphasis on holistic skill development to meet the evolving demands of the global workforce.

With all the wisdom and experience you’ve accumulated over the years, what advice would you give to someone just starting their career in training and coordination?

Besides being an experienced welder, for one to become a good welding trainer, one must do the following:

• Respect yourself and the trainees
• Always do research to keep updated.
• Be approachable, this will create friendship between the trainer and the trainees.
• Always consult over something you are unsure of.
• Do your job with passion.

As you reflect on your time with TASC, what legacy do you hope to leave behind? How would you like to be remembered?

I should be remembered for being an industrious employee, honest and trusted.