Each month we profile the many different people of Ford, getting to know our colleagues in and out of the office. This month we’re in conversation with Kurt Jenniker, Operator on Panther Assembly, Struandale Engine Plant.
Who is Kurt Jenniker? Tell us more about yourself?
I was raised in a crime-dominated area known as Helenvale, as the 7th child of 11 kids. Growing up was always a challenge, not getting involved with the wrong crowd when temptations were evident all around me. We have a strict father to thank for keeping us on our toes at all times.
What was your childhood like, and how do you think it shaped who you are today?
Growing up as one of the youngest children in the family among 11 kids was always good, knowing I had someone to run to when things got tough. Being independent was a principle my dad instilled in us daily, showing us how to treat our situation as a blessing of having just enough to sustain us daily. I got married in 2014 to a lovely, warm-hearted woman called Badrunnesa, with whom I have 3 beautiful kids (2 sons and 1 daughter); however, I also have another son from before my marriage.
Take us through your career journey before joining Ford, what roles did you hold, and how did they prepare you for where you are now?
I had a lot of jobs before I joined a factory-based company for the first time in 2002, at SJM Flex, where I ended up working for close to 16 years. My journey at that company started with getting a position as a line leader in less than 6 months and afterward being promoted to shift leader/team leader for close to 5 years. In 2014, I was earmarked as a new Business Leader, also known as a Process Coach, here at Ford. I decided to move away from SJM Flex to follow my dream of studying as a Civil Engineer, and during my time studying, I was able to apply at Ford in 2016. I was eventually called in 2018 and started at Ford that same year.
You were recently recognised as a Ford Ranger Champion, how did that come about, and what did it mean to you?
I was overwhelmed in 2025 when I was elected by my manager as the Ranger Champion. I never expected to be chosen for such a privilege, to be regarded as someone worth recognising.
What do you like to get up to over weekends or in your downtime?
I love spending time with my family as much as possible, because seeing my kids grow is such a blessing to me. Building memories at all costs means a lot to me, because in the times we live in, nothing is ever promised, being alive the next day is not guaranteed, so every minute of each day counts.
What's something that always puts you in a good mood?
Seeing a smile on my kids' faces and making sure my wife is well looked after, because behind every wife who shines is a husband who treats her right, every single day.
What drives you to keep pushing yourself and encouraging those around you?
Knowing I can make a difference in another person's life always empowers me to push forward. The knowledge I have obtained over the years is a powerful asset, and I strive to use it to the best of my ability.
What advice would you give to a young person joining Ford today?
What I would say to those who want to join is to never doubt their ability to excel, because for me, someone who was once on the outside, working for a company of this stature was always a dream.