Stainless Steel Awards 2008

Achievement Award

Dave Rowlands

David P Rowlands has been recognised for his achievement in the stainless steel industry with an award for his tireless contribution to the stainless steel industry. His expert technical competence has aided the southern African industry, particularly in the development of Sassda’s education programme, the writing of the Information
Series modules and his dedication to teaching so many of today’s industry leaders. Rowlands matriculated from Parktown Boys’ High in 1953. He then went on to study a BSc Eng at the University of the Witwatersrand graduating in Metallurgical Engineering. He undertook post graduate research and lecturing at the department and then went on to work for a number of companies after graduating, including Union Steel, Robor, George Stott and Company and then most significantly Middelburg Steel and Alloys for over 15 years. During this time he was seconded to Sassda, first as executive director of the newly established HFS (now SSFA) and later as director of Sassda including HFA. Rowlands took early retirement when the firm was taken over by Columbus Joint Venture to start his own business as a private consultant.

Rowlands has devoted his life to training in the stainless steel industry. He has been an active member of Sassda, particularly in the fabricators sector and welding industry. Rowlands is also an avid adventurer and built a 14m yacht that he and a crew of four circumnavigated 22 500 nautical miles.