AIE Launches New Artisan Campus in Midrand

"I never thought I’d be working on real engines this soon. Just a few months into the course, I landed an apprenticeship. Now, I’m on my way to Red Seal certification. AIE changed my life."
– Thabo M., Fitter & Turner Student, Class of 2024

The Academic Institute of Excellence (AIE) is proud to announce the launch of Phase 1 of its new Artisan Campus in Midrand—a future-focused space designed for hands-on technical training across nine high-demand trades. This exciting development marks AIE’s most significant expansion to date and is a bold step toward addressing South Africa’s growing need for skilled artisans and technicians. Once completed, the campus is expected to accommodate over 1,000 artisan students, making it one of the largest private training hubs of its kind in the country.

Pioneering a New Era in Artisan Training

AIE has evolved from a visionary idea into a nationally recognised leader in career-focused education, particularly within the engineering and draughting sectors. In response to the phasing out of traditional NATED trade qualifications, AIE identified a critical gap in practical, industry-relevant artisan training.

This vision has now materialised in the launch of the School of Artisans & Technical Trades, which offers Occupational Certificates aligned with QCTO standards. These qualifications provide a modern, accredited pathway to becoming a certified artisan and obtaining Red Seal trade certification.

 

"This campus isn’t just a facility—it’s a launchpad for the next generation of skilled professionals," says AIE CEO, Leon Smalberger. "Our journey has been one of growth, innovation, and an unrelenting commitment to providing world-class education. This is about more than skills—it’s about changing lives and building South Africa’s future workforce."

 

Why This Matters

South Africa faces a critical skills shortage in artisan trades—and many students worry: How do I afford training? Will I find a job? Am I good enough? At AIE, we understand these fears—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

That’s why the School of Artisans & Technical Trades goes beyond accreditation. We combine practical training, real industry links, and career support to help you succeed with confidence.

We offer:

• Practical workplace-based training in simulated environments

• Job placement support and interviews with industry partners

• Flexible payment plans for every need

• Career guidance from enrolment to employment

Built for Real-World Readiness

The new Midrand Artisan Campus features workplace-simulated environments that provide hands-on, practical experience with industry-standard tools and systems. Whether aspiring to be a welder, electrician, diesel mechanic, or motor technician, students will learn in settings designed to mirror real-world conditions.

What Can You Become?

These accredited NQF Level 4 qualifications prepare you for real roles in high-demand industries.

• Occupational Certificate: Welder (NQF 4)
  Students gain experience with Shielded Metal Arc, Gas Metal Arc, and Gas Tungsten Arc welding. Facilities include fillet, plate butt, and pipe welding stations, as well as gas cutting and gouging bays.

• Occupational Certificate: Boilermaker (NQF 4)
  Training includes structural visualisation, template development, component fabrication, and heat/cold bending using industry-grade tools and machinery.

• Occupational Certificate: Fitter and Turner (NQF 4)
  Focuses on mechanical assembly, fault-finding, repairs, disassembly, overhauls, and machining—using both manual and powered tools.

• Occupational Certificate: Electrician (NQF 4)
  Students engage in planning, wiring, commissioning, fault-finding, and repairs using real-world control systems and electrical tools.

• Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic (NQF 4)
  Includes work on engines, braking and cooling systems, drive trains, and electronic components with realistic dismantling and reassembly practices.

• Occupational Certificate: Automotive Motor Mechanic (NQF 4)
  Practical modules include work on suspension, engines, HVAC, clutches, drivelines, and more—using real vehicles and components.

• Occupational Certificate: Transportation Electrician – Automotive Electrician (NQF 4)
  Training covers diagnostic tools, fault-finding, and repair on systems such as SRS, ABS, HVAC, telematics, and advanced vehicle electronics.

Join us for Artisan Day, 27 June '25

Join our School of Artisans Information Session and New Campus Launch! Discover the world of skilled craftmanship and take the first step toward your Red Seal qualification at AIE's Artisan Day at the Midrand campus from 09:00 - 13:00 - a dynamic, hands-on event celebrating artisanship, innovation, and training excellence.

Campus Location: 1 Oracle Close, Halfway Gardens, Midrand, 1686

Bookings for this event is required:

Book Now 

Mid-Year Applications Now Open

Do you or your child have a passion for working with your hands, solving problems, and building a meaningful career in the trades? Now is the time to act. Mid-year enrolments are open across all artisan and occupational programmes.

For detailed programme info and to apply here:

Learn More