About Us

Who We Are

HDD Engineering (Pty) Ltd is a Cape Town-based engineering company specialising in mechanical and precision engineering services. We focus on delivering high-quality workmanship to a range of industries, including mining, industrial manufacturing, and horizontal directional drilling (HDD).

Our Commitment

We are committed to precision, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Our team combines years of technical experience with a passion for problem-solving, ensuring we deliver solutions that last.

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Our Journey

Founded in 2018 as New Vision Engineering, Nicki Ackerman started with a focus on offering excellent service to a select group of clients. In 2021, we rebranded to HDD Engineering (Pty) Ltd to align with our expanding service offering — including a dedicated line of stock products for the HDD drilling industry. Our growth has led to the creation of a specialised division focused on the repair, maintenance, and supply of HDD equipment.

Meet the Team Where Passion Meets Precision

Behind every precisely machined part and expertly serviced rig is a team of dedicated professionals who live and breathe engineering. Meet the minds behind the machines — the people who bring passion, precision, and purpose to HDD Engineering.

Nicki Ackerman

Owner / Director

With over 30 years of experience in the engineering industry, Nicki brings a wealth of knowledge, hands-on expertise, and a deep passion for precision work. As the founder and driving force behind HDD Engineering, he takes pride in leading a skilled team and delivering exceptional service across every project. When he’s not overseeing operations, Nicki enjoys spending quality time with his wife, two children, and his beloved dogs, Buksie and Milly. A true outdoorsman at heart, when the opportunity arises, you’ll often find him camping, hunting, or fishing.

Driekus van Rhyn

Toolmaker

Driekus, has been a dedicated part of the team since the early days, starting back when the company operated as New Vision before becoming HDD Engineering in 2021. With over 15 years of hands-on experience, he brings solid knowledge, practical skill, and a strong work ethic to every project. Outside of work, Driekus is an avid gamer and enjoys a good old South African braai with friends and family.

Kobus Janse van Rensburg

Boilermaker

Kobus, with his strong Boilermaker background and vast interest in engineering, is a valuable asset to the HDD Engineering team. With over 8 years of industry experience, he’s a true all-rounder — passionate about his work and committed to delivering excellent service to our customers. There’s no task he won’t take on with focus and determination. Outside of work, Kobus enjoys staying busy with home projects, and spending quality time with family and friends. When it's time to relax, you might find him watching rugby, enjoying a weekend braai, or diving into his inner I.T. guru side.

Marius de Jager

Fitter and Turner

Marius joined our team bringing with him a natural passion for the work and a wealth of industry experience, having served in the field for over 34 years. When he’s not at his station making sure your jobs are delivered on time and to standard, Marius enjoys spending time with his wife and fishing — a well-earned balance to his hands-on dedication at work.

Brent Jacobs

Welder

Brent is our youngest team member and a talented Welder. He brings a positive attitude and a real willingness to learn. His energy and dedication help the team keep delivering quality workmanship and dependable service. Outside of work, Brent enjoys weekends playing games with his daughter, loves playing and watching soccer, and can often be found dancing in his free time.

Royston Papier

Fitter and Turner

Royston Papier joined HDD Engineering in 2025 as a vital addition to our machining team. He brings reliability and a steady, thoughtful approach to every task, helping the workshop run smoothly and maintain our high standards. Roy is a devoted family man who cherishes spending his free time with loved ones. He enjoys relaxing by the fire with friends and embracing the outdoors.

David Schuller

Driver

Meet David — a skilled pair of hands ready for anything. With over 20 years of experience and a refreshing, can-do attitude, David has quickly become a valued team player. You can count on him to deliver your orders on time, every time — and always with a friendly smile. When he's off the clock, David enjoys quality time with his wife and kids, braaing with friends, and watching rugby and soccer — bringing the same energy to his downtime as he does to the workshop.

Shentél du Toit

Office Manager

Some say the workshop runs on steel and sweat — but we know it’s the office that keeps everything on track. An all-round organiser, Shentél keeps the chaos in check — with coffee in hand and a smile (most days). When she’s not keeping things running smoothly at the office, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, family, close friends, and her beloved four-legged boy. Wherever there’s sunshine and sea sand, that’s where you’ll find her happiest.