Dr. TJ Sono holds a PhD, MPM, and ENSP and is the Impact Area Manager for Landward Sciences at CSIR, where he also serves as Chairperson of SABO. Since joining CSIR in 2012, he has held leadership roles, including Senior Researcher, Research Group Leader, Operations Manager, and Business Development Lead. Before CSIR, he worked as a Project Scientist at Element Six and lectured in Physics at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. With over a decade of experience in the defence, safety, and security RD&I sector, he has guided multi-disciplinary teams to deliver high-impact solutions aligned with national priorities. His expertise includes innovation-driven outcomes, scientific advancement, operational impact, and strategic partnerships.
Prof Thanyani Pandelani is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical, Bioresources, and Biomedical Engineering at Unisa. His research focuses on the characterization of soft biological tissues through a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mechanical testing with biaxial and triaxial systems, and trauma biomechanics. He is particularly interested in understanding the mechanical behavior and structural properties of soft tissues under various loading conditions. In addition to his research, he is dedicated to advancing tertiary engineering education by integrating real-world biomedical applications into the curriculum, fostering hands-on learning, and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.
Rudolf Gouws is a registered Professional Engineer with a B Eng degree in Electronic Engineering. He has a strong background in ammunition and explosives testing and leads an ammunition engineering team on various portfolios of products including Artillery, Mortars, Armour and Naval products. Rudolf also supports the South African Explosives Board as well as the South African IM Steering Committee.
Cedric Brijraj holds a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, a B.Com. in Quantitative Management, and an MBA. He has a strong interest in technology, acquisition, and support projects related to weapons for the South African National Defence Force. His technical focus includes the implementation of Insensitive Munitions technology for legacy ammunition and missiles.
Roxanne Taylor holds a degree in Chemical Engineering and has been developing energetic materials for 10 years. She has a keen interest in propulsion and the development of mortar and artillery propellants. As the Executive Manager for Propellants, Explosives, and Pyrotechnics, she specializes in advancing technologies in these areas.
Bronwyn van Tonder has an MSc in Process Engineering and a Diploma in Business Management. She has spent the last 9 years at Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) and is currently a Senior Engineer on artillery charges. Her main technical interests are in artillery systems and internal ballistics, and she focuses on the development and performance of artillery charge solutions.