Prof Potgieter Johan

Johan Potgieter is a distinguished South African academic, professional engineer, and education consultant with over four decades of expertise spanning engineering, applied sciences, and higher education management. Based in Ladismith, Western Cape, his career is characterized by a deep commitment to adult professional development, the establishment of international academic programs, and the advancement of engineering and technology education.

An accomplished educator and intellectual, Mr. Potgieter holds a formidable array of qualifications, including B.Sc. degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Geology, an M.Eng. in Mining and Petroleum Engineering, and multiple doctoral degrees, including a Ph.D. in Applied Science. His academic leadership is reflected in his long-standing appointments as Professor of Electrical Engineering and a member of the Academic Council for St. Clements University, where he has been instrumental in developing and directing numerous bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs in technology and engineering fields.

A founder and pivotal figure in several professional bodies, he serves as the President and Chief Executive of the Design, Technology and Management Society International (DTMSI) and as the Director of the Faculty of Technology, Management and Applied Sciences (FTMAS) registered in the UK. Through these roles, he has pioneered professional development diplomas and accreditation pathways for engineers and technologists globally. His consultancy work, via Potgieter Training Consultants, further extends his impact in crafting and managing academic and training programs for institutions worldwide.

Professionally, he is a Registered Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) with the Society of Professional Engineers UK and maintains a history of registration with engineering councils in South Africa and London. His career is marked by significant international engagement, including keynote addresses at conferences in Beijing and Los Angeles, and leadership in academic consortia such as the Academic Consortium of the Americas.

Fully bilingual in Afrikaans and English, with conversational skills in Swazi and Zulu, Mr. Potgieter is a strategic thinker, published author of academic curricula, and a dedicated mentor. Recognized with honors including knighthoods from the Royal Hashemite Sultanate of Sulu & Sabah and the Knights of Rizal, his life’s work continues to bridge the gap between professional engineering practice and innovative, accessible higher education.