Mauricio Kalukango

Mauricio Kalukango, an Equipment Service Associate at BMW Manufacturing USA, has cultivated a noteworthy career in industrial maintenance, focusing on repairing and optimizing electrical and electro-mechanical equipment for significant original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Born in Botswana to a family originally from Angola, he and his family migrated to the United States in 1982, settling in Atlanta, Georgia. He discovered a passion for aviation in Atlanta, leading him to complete an Aviation Maintenance course at Atlanta Technical College.

Despite the economic challenges following the 9/11 attacks and the housing market crash, his unyielding determination to sustain his career as a technical mechanic motivated him to transition into heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology. This shift equipped him with the necessary skills to troubleshoot HVACR systems and facilitated his entry into the machine maintenance industry.

Early Experiences

In 1979, he was born amidst the backdrop of Angola's civil war, forcing his family to seek refuge in Botswana. Later, the family chose Atlanta, Georgia, as their new home in the USA. His father, Joaquim, instilled in him the values of hard work and family unity, essential for thriving in a new country. Joaquim, a skilled craftsman and construction foreman, influenced Mauricio greatly with his ethic and craftsmanship.

Growing up in Atlanta, he thrived, actively participating in the Carver Eastside Boy's Club and excelling in school sports and student government. Early recognized for his intelligence, he was placed in advanced classes and took on leadership roles, including Student Body President. His academic and extracurricular achievements culminated in his graduation with honors in 1997, setting the stage for pursuing mechanical engineering.

Educational Pathways

His educational journey began at Mercer University, where he initially pursued Mechanical Engineering. However, his passion for aircraft maintenance led him to enroll in the Aviation Maintenance course at Atlanta Technical College, where he excelled and earned his FAA certification. Changes in FAA regulations prompted a career shift, leading him to Fortis College in Georgia, where he trained as an HVACR technician, a move that aligned with the evolving industrial landscape.

Graduating from Fortis College with a technical diploma in HVAC Technology and an E.P.A. Universal Certification, he laid the foundation for his future in industrial equipment maintenance, acquiring skills crucial for his later career.

Professional Development

Mauricio’s professional life is characterized by his adaptability and excellence in various technical roles across different industries. He started in the aviation sector, working on airframe and power plant maintenance. The post-9/11 industry shifts led him to transition to roles such as a wiring technician at Caterpillar Inc. and later as an Industrial Electrician and Electro-mechanical Technician at companies like Andersen Windows & Doors and SYSCO Atlanta.

His career trajectory took him to Thompson Construction as an Instrumentation Technician, where he managed electrical maintenance and the installation of industrial machinery. Each role enriched his experience with cutting-edge manufacturing technology and complex control systems.

In 2018, Mauricio joined BMW Manufacturing in Greenville, South Carolina, as an Equipment Service Associate, focusing on robotics and factory automation. His expertise in high-tech machinery has been integral to his roles, ensuring the smooth operation of automotive manufacturing equipment.

Personal Endeavors

Beyond his professional life, Mauricio Kalukango is a father of two and maintains a strong relationship with his family. His adventurous spirit is evident in his travel pursuits, including a comprehensive tour of Egypt and experiences in Colombia and the Dominican Republic. These travels satisfy his wanderlust and fuel his appreciation for diverse cultures and landscapes.

Mauricio's journey from a refugee to a respected technician in the U.S. manufacturing industry is a testament to his resilience, skill, and the pursuit of personal and professional fulfillment.