Mauricio Kalukango is an Equipment Service Associate at BMW Manufacturing USA, where he excels in Industrial Maintenance. His career is characterized by an extensive proficiency in repairing and optimizing complex electrical and electromechanical systems for leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Born in Botswana to Angolan parents, he moved to the United States in 1982, settling in Atlanta, GA. This relocation sparked his interest in aviation, leading him to complete an Aviation Maintenance course at Atlanta Technical College.
With the economic downturns following the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent housing market crash, Kalukango's early career in aviation maintenance was significantly challenged. Undeterred, he transitioned his focus toward heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) technology. This strategic shift not only widened his skill set but also facilitated his entry into the broader field of machine maintenance.
Throughout his career, Kalukango has occupied important technical positions at industry giants such as Caterpillar Inc. and Pumpingsol. His responsibilities at these companies involved working closely with sophisticated industrial equipment essential for seamless, high-speed operations. His exposure to these environments expanded his knowledge and expertise in industrial automation and process equipment, maintaining his relevance in a rapidly advancing technological field.
Born amidst the turmoil of the Angolan civil war in 1979, Kalukango's family initially fled to Botswana. They later migrated to the USA, settling in Atlanta, where his father, a skilled craftsman and construction foreman, instilled in him the importance of hard work and family unity. He flourished in this nurturing environment, participating in various community and educational activities, and he graduated as the Student Body President from his high school in 1997.
His academic pursuits began at Mercer University in Mechanical Engineering. Still, his passion for aviation led him to shift to Atlanta Technical College to earn an Aviation Maintenance certification, eventually obtaining FAA certification. As industry regulations evolved, he furthered his education in HVACR technology at Fortis College in Georgia, aligning with the shift toward automated manufacturing processes.
His evolution highlights Kalukango's career adaptability from an airframe and power plant maintenance technician to roles requiring expertise in advanced control systems and high-tech machinery. His skills caught the attention of BMW, leading to his recruitment in 2018. He has since been integral to the company's robotics and factory automation initiatives in Greenville, SC.
On a personal note, Kalukango is a dedicated father to two children and maintains a strong bond with his family. His passion for travel has led him to explore numerous global destinations, including a memorable journey through Egypt's historical sites and vibrant explorations in Colombia. His trip to the Dominican Republic, noted for its dramatic landscapes, has been particularly impactful.
Mauricio Kalukango's journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. He has secured his place as a key figure in the industrial maintenance sector.
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