Kaplan’s theme as the 2023 SAICE President has been centred on highlighting the relevance of engineering professionals in the built environment, adopting the slogan: ‘Make engineering great again (MEGA)’. Kaplan is determined to position SAICE as a leader in infrastructure research, commentary, and solution finding, driven by acknowledged experts.
Speaking about his vision: “I am committed to creating a platform for meaningful engagements that will influence macro-level planning, advocate for infrastructure funding, stimulate debates on infrastructure conditions and their impact on quality of life and the economy, and highlight necessary actions to improve the nation’s infrastructure.”
He adds: “I firmly believe that enhancing the value of the engineering profession and its representative institutions is essential for empowering public service institutions and uplifting
the overall infrastructure in South Africa, ultimately serving the public interest.”
Kaplan is equally passionate about making a positive impact on the young professionals of SAICE. As he presents to final-year students and mentors young graduates, he emphasizes the importance of pushing boundaries and becoming future decision-makers in the nation’s leadership. Kaplan advocates for proper mentoring, encouraging young professionals to seek companies with formalised mentorship programmes and rotational schedules to shape their career paths.
Having previously served as both Chief Operating Officer and Acting Chief Executive Officer of SAICE, Kaplan understands the importance of setting achievable goals during his one-year term as President. While acknowledging the challenges of influencing widespread change in the public service, he remains focused on practical objectives. “My aim is to convince municipalities to embrace lifecycle planning and involve experienced engineering professionals in the decision making process. By achieving this, we can make a significant difference and contribute to the betterment of South Africa’s infrastructure.”
SAICE CEO Sekadi Phayane-Shakhane explains that with Kaplan at the helm as president for 2023, SAICE has been able to champion the cause of engineering professionals and spearhead initiatives that drive the growth of South Africa’s economy through sustainable infrastructure development.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude for his dedicated service as our President this past year. Steven’s commitment and leadership has forged a path of excellence for SAICE. On behalf of the entire SAICE community, I want to express my appreciation for his outstanding contributions,” she concludes.