Meet Arno van der Spuy
With five years at SIG under his belt, Arno van der Spuy has already carved out a reputation for technical expertise, problem-solving, and dedication to customer success. Based in Cape Town, South Africa, Arno was recently promoted to Senior Field Service Engineer (FSE) in early 2025 – a milestone that reflects the strong impact he’s made since starting at SIG in Port Elizabeth in 2020.
Please introduce yourself
My name is Arno van der Spuy, and I started my journey in 2020 in Port Elizabeth and transitioned to Cape Town at the beginning of 2025.
How far has your role taken you?
My work has taken me across South Africa, particularly in leading successful line installations as an FSE. I’ve grown a lot through those projects, and stepping into the Senior FSE role has been a great next step in my journey.
What do you love most about your role?
I enjoy being able to assist both customers and my colleagues in achieving the best possible results. It’s rewarding to help improve production and ensure it’s maintained at a high standard. That sense of contributing to something bigger keeps me motivated.
What’s the most rewarding moment you’ve experienced in the field?
Definitely seeing my first full line installation go live smoothly without any major issues. It was a proud moment to witness all that planning and effort come together successfully. But even the small wins – like a completed project or a well-executed Preventive Maintenance service – are just as rewarding.
What’s one thing people might not know about life as an FSE?
It’s a role that requires you to be a strong all-rounder. Every customer site presents a different challenge – whether it’s technical or people-related. You need to be precise, adaptable, and make quick decisions that benefit everyone involved. It’s more than machines – it’s about relationships and good judgment, too.
How has SIG supported your development and growth?
SIG has supported me through various training opportunities, both technical and soft skills. But beyond formal learning, the biggest growth has come from the trust placed in me to handle new, sometimes unfamiliar tasks. That freedom to learn by doing has made a big difference in my development.
Any advice for someone thinking about becoming an FSE?
Think critically, analyze situations carefully, and don’t hesitate to consult with others. Be proactive, manage your time wisely, and always ask for help when needed. This role offers a great opportunity to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact – but it takes dedication, flexibility, and a passion for solving problems.