About Us

Colin WynGaard

Together with Travis Gordon as co-founder and current Managing Director of Tra-Col Solutions, Colin Wyngaard has been at the helm of the company’s remarkable journey since its inception in 2006. Under his visionary leadership, the company has transformed from a small, 100% Black Economically Empowered start-up into a CIDB Level 5 Mechanical Engineering-rated enterprise, with a steadily growing team and a reputation for excellence.

Colin’s leadership has guided Tra-Col Solutions through a dynamic evolution—from its beginnings in progressive sourcing and trading to the establishment of a robust Engineering Division. Today, the company is a recognized player in the sector, working hand-in-hand with key partners and suppliers to deliver sustainable growth and meaningful empowerment for all stakeholders involved.

Before founding Tra-Col Solutions, Colin gained invaluable experience across several major industrial and utility organizations, including Dorbyl Automotive, Xactics Plastics, Eskom, and Saldanha Steel. His career culminated in a role as an international Business Process Auditor at British American Tobacco, where he refined his strategic and operational acumen on a global stage.

Armed with a BTech in Mechanical Engineering and a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours), Colin leads with a multidimensional perspective—masterfully navigating the strategic, regulatory, financial, marketing, and human elements of the business. His blend of technical knowledge and business insight has been instrumental in shaping Tra-Col Solutions into the impactful and forward-thinking company it is today.

Colin WynGaard

Together with Travis Gordon as co-founder and current Managing Director of Tra-Col Solutions, Colin Wyngaard has been at the helm of the company’s remarkable journey since its inception in 2006. Under his visionary leadership, the company has transformed from a small, 100% Black Economically Empowered start-up into a CIDB Level 5 Mechanical Engineering-rated enterprise, with a steadily growing team and a reputation for excellence.

Colin’s leadership has guided Tra-Col Solutions through a dynamic evolution—from its beginnings in progressive sourcing and trading to the establishment of a robust Engineering Division. Today, the company is a recognized player in the sector, working hand-in-hand with key partners and suppliers to deliver sustainable growth and meaningful empowerment for all stakeholders involved.

Before founding Tra-Col Solutions, Colin gained invaluable experience across several major industrial and utility organizations, including Dorbyl Automotive, Xactics Plastics, Eskom, and Saldanha Steel. His career culminated in a role as an international Business Process Auditor at British American Tobacco, where he refined his strategic and operational acumen on a global stage.

Armed with a BTech in Mechanical Engineering and a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours), Colin leads with a multidimensional perspective—masterfully navigating the strategic, regulatory, financial, marketing, and human elements of the business. His blend of technical knowledge and business insight has been instrumental in shaping Tra-Col Solutions into the impactful and forward-thinking company it is today.

Colin WynGaard

Together with Travis Gordon as co-founder and current Managing Director of Tra-Col Solutions, Colin Wyngaard has been at the helm of the company’s remarkable journey since its inception in 2006. Under his visionary leadership, the company has transformed from a small, 100% Black Economically Empowered start-up into a CIDB Level 5 Mechanical Engineering-rated enterprise, with a steadily growing team and a reputation for excellence.

Colin’s leadership has guided Tra-Col Solutions through a dynamic evolution—from its beginnings in progressive sourcing and trading to the establishment of a robust Engineering Division. Today, the company is a recognized player in the sector, working hand-in-hand with key partners and suppliers to deliver sustainable growth and meaningful empowerment for all stakeholders involved.

Before founding Tra-Col Solutions, Colin gained invaluable experience across several major industrial and utility organizations, including Dorbyl Automotive, Xactics Plastics, Eskom, and Saldanha Steel. His career culminated in a role as an international Business Process Auditor at British American Tobacco, where he refined his strategic and operational acumen on a global stage.

Armed with a BTech in Mechanical Engineering and a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours), Colin leads with a multidimensional perspective—masterfully navigating the strategic, regulatory, financial, marketing, and human elements of the business. His blend of technical knowledge and business insight has been instrumental in shaping Tra-Col Solutions into the impactful and forward-thinking company it is today.

Natalie THwaites

For nearly two decades, Natalie Thwaites has been an integral part of the Tra-Col Solutions journey, helping shape the company’s growth and reputation in the sourcing and trading industry. Since joining the organization 18 years ago, she has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration.

With a robust academic foundation—holding both a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management and Administration and a Postgraduate Diploma in the same field—Natalie brings a strategic mindset to every facet of her role. Her early leadership as Operations Manager saw her implement efficiency-driven systems that reduced costs, elevated customer satisfaction, and improved overall productivity. Her nuanced understanding of both tacit and explicit knowledge enabled her to craft practical solutions that resonated across departments.

Currently serving as Commercial Manager, Natalie remains at the helm of supplier and client relationships, ensuring that every product and service sourced aligns with the highest standards. Her ability to bridge the expectations of end users with the capabilities of suppliers has positioned Tra-Col Solutions as a trusted name in the industry. Beyond her operational prowess, she’s known for her strength in people management—motivating teams, cultivating talent, and fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Natalie’s passion for strategic procurement, continuous improvement, and collaborative growth makes her not just a leader but a cornerstone of Tra-Col Solutions’ continued success. Her dedication, vision, and unwavering pursuit of excellence continue to pave the way for the company’s future.

Natalie THwaites

For nearly two decades, Natalie Thwaites has been an integral part of the Tra-Col Solutions journey, helping shape the company’s growth and reputation in the sourcing and trading industry. Since joining the organization 18 years ago, she has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration.

With a robust academic foundation—holding both a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management and Administration and a Postgraduate Diploma in the same field—Natalie brings a strategic mindset to every facet of her role. Her early leadership as Operations Manager saw her implement efficiency-driven systems that reduced costs, elevated customer satisfaction, and improved overall productivity. Her nuanced understanding of both tacit and explicit knowledge enabled her to craft practical solutions that resonated across departments.

Currently serving as Commercial Manager, Natalie remains at the helm of supplier and client relationships, ensuring that every product and service sourced aligns with the highest standards. Her ability to bridge the expectations of end users with the capabilities of suppliers has positioned Tra-Col Solutions as a trusted name in the industry. Beyond her operational prowess, she’s known for her strength in people management—motivating teams, cultivating talent, and fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Natalie’s passion for strategic procurement, continuous improvement, and collaborative growth makes her not just a leader but a cornerstone of Tra-Col Solutions’ continued success. Her dedication, vision, and unwavering pursuit of excellence continue to pave the way for the company’s future.

Natalie THwaites

For nearly two decades, Natalie Thwaites has been an integral part of the Tra-Col Solutions journey, helping shape the company’s growth and reputation in the sourcing and trading industry. Since joining the organization 18 years ago, she has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration.

With a robust academic foundation—holding both a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management and Administration and a Postgraduate Diploma in the same field—Natalie brings a strategic mindset to every facet of her role. Her early leadership as Operations Manager saw her implement efficiency-driven systems that reduced costs, elevated customer satisfaction, and improved overall productivity. Her nuanced understanding of both tacit and explicit knowledge enabled her to craft practical solutions that resonated across departments.

Currently serving as Commercial Manager, Natalie remains at the helm of supplier and client relationships, ensuring that every product and service sourced aligns with the highest standards. Her ability to bridge the expectations of end users with the capabilities of suppliers has positioned Tra-Col Solutions as a trusted name in the industry. Beyond her operational prowess, she’s known for her strength in people management—motivating teams, cultivating talent, and fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Natalie’s passion for strategic procurement, continuous improvement, and collaborative growth makes her not just a leader but a cornerstone of Tra-Col Solutions’ continued success. Her dedication, vision, and unwavering pursuit of excellence continue to pave the way for the company’s future.

Grant lakay

Since joining Tra-Col Solutions in 2016, Grant Lakay has firmly established himself as a cornerstone of the company's engineering and contractual operations. As the Technical and Contracts Manager and a valued member of the executive leadership team, he oversees all technical functions and contractual responsibilities, ensuring smooth execution of projects both in-house and in the field.

Over the past five years, Grant has led several high-impact initiatives—most notably securing and managing three flagship term tenders in Waste Water Management for the City of Cape Town, covering Pump Maintenance, Gearbox Maintenance, and Mechanical Screen Maintenance. His success extends beyond municipal work, having managed the execution of contracts in the marine sector, including Shipyard Equipment & Facilities Maintenance and other bespoke ad hoc marine projects.

With more than a decade of hands-on experience as a Trade Tested Artisan and a dynamic career that spans roles from Arc Spray Technician to Project Supervisor and Fitter and Turner, Grant brings unmatched practical insight to his role. He has worked across a wide array of machinery and mechanical systems, contributing his expertise at companies such as Arendse Projects, Coatec Mechanical Solutions, and All Weld Marine & Industrial.

Equally passionate about mentorship, Grant is known for nurturing the next generation of artisans. His role as a Journeyman allows him to support and develop trainees, passing down valuable knowledge and cultivating a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.

Currently pursuing a Degree in Project Management, Grant continues to sharpen his leadership capabilities while staying grounded in the technical roots that shaped his career. His commitment to operational integrity, contract execution, and people development makes him a driving force behind Tra-Col Solutions' continued growth.

Grant lakay

Since joining Tra-Col Solutions in 2016, Grant Lakay has firmly established himself as a cornerstone of the company's engineering and contractual operations. As the Technical and Contracts Manager and a valued member of the executive leadership team, he oversees all technical functions and contractual responsibilities, ensuring smooth execution of projects both in-house and in the field.

Over the past five years, Grant has led several high-impact initiatives—most notably securing and managing three flagship term tenders in Waste Water Management for the City of Cape Town, covering Pump Maintenance, Gearbox Maintenance, and Mechanical Screen Maintenance. His success extends beyond municipal work, having managed the execution of contracts in the marine sector, including Shipyard Equipment & Facilities Maintenance and other bespoke ad hoc marine projects.

With more than a decade of hands-on experience as a Trade Tested Artisan and a dynamic career that spans roles from Arc Spray Technician to Project Supervisor and Fitter and Turner, Grant brings unmatched practical insight to his role. He has worked across a wide array of machinery and mechanical systems, contributing his expertise at companies such as Arendse Projects, Coatec Mechanical Solutions, and All Weld Marine & Industrial.

Equally passionate about mentorship, Grant is known for nurturing the next generation of artisans. His role as a Journeyman allows him to support and develop trainees, passing down valuable knowledge and cultivating a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.

Currently pursuing a Degree in Project Management, Grant continues to sharpen his leadership capabilities while staying grounded in the technical roots that shaped his career. His commitment to operational integrity, contract execution, and people development makes him a driving force behind Tra-Col Solutions' continued growth.

Grant lakay

Since joining Tra-Col Solutions in 2016, Grant Lakay has firmly established himself as a cornerstone of the company's engineering and contractual operations. As the Technical and Contracts Manager and a valued member of the executive leadership team, he oversees all technical functions and contractual responsibilities, ensuring smooth execution of projects both in-house and in the field.

Over the past five years, Grant has led several high-impact initiatives—most notably securing and managing three flagship term tenders in Waste Water Management for the City of Cape Town, covering Pump Maintenance, Gearbox Maintenance, and Mechanical Screen Maintenance. His success extends beyond municipal work, having managed the execution of contracts in the marine sector, including Shipyard Equipment & Facilities Maintenance and other bespoke ad hoc marine projects.

With more than a decade of hands-on experience as a Trade Tested Artisan and a dynamic career that spans roles from Arc Spray Technician to Project Supervisor and Fitter and Turner, Grant brings unmatched practical insight to his role. He has worked across a wide array of machinery and mechanical systems, contributing his expertise at companies such as Arendse Projects, Coatec Mechanical Solutions, and All Weld Marine & Industrial.

Equally passionate about mentorship, Grant is known for nurturing the next generation of artisans. His role as a Journeyman allows him to support and develop trainees, passing down valuable knowledge and cultivating a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.

Currently pursuing a Degree in Project Management, Grant continues to sharpen his leadership capabilities while staying grounded in the technical roots that shaped his career. His commitment to operational integrity, contract execution, and people development makes him a driving force behind Tra-Col Solutions' continued growth.

chevonne guta

Chevonne Guta is a dedicated and detail-oriented Financial Administration Officer at Tra-Col Solutions, where she plays a vital role in supporting the finance team’s daily operations. Known for her precision, professionalism, and collaborative spirit, Chevonne brings consistency and accuracy to the company’s accounting functions.

While currently pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce in Financial Accounting, Chevonne seamlessly blends academic growth with workplace excellence. Her passion for the accounting discipline is evident not only in her educational endeavors but also in the high standards she brings to her work.

Her career foundation was laid during her tenure as an Accounts Clerk at Cecil Kilpin & Co., where she spent three years honing her financial acumen, mastering bookkeeping systems, and developing an intuitive understanding of client service. Chevonne has also held key administrative and bookkeeping roles within Tra-Col Solutions, steadily growing into her current position through hard work and a commitment to continuous learning.

Chevonne is deeply inspired by the collaborative culture at Tra-Col Solutions, which she credits with shaping her purpose-driven mindset and nurturing a positive working environment. With her sights set on further professional development and a strong belief in teamwork, she continues to grow as both finance professional and a valuable team player.

chevonne guta

Chevonne Guta is a dedicated and detail-oriented Financial Administration Officer at Tra-Col Solutions, where she plays a vital role in supporting the finance team’s daily operations. Known for her precision, professionalism, and collaborative spirit, Chevonne brings consistency and accuracy to the company’s accounting functions.

While currently pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce in Financial Accounting, Chevonne seamlessly blends academic growth with workplace excellence. Her passion for the accounting discipline is evident not only in her educational endeavors but also in the high standards she brings to her work.

Her career foundation was laid during her tenure as an Accounts Clerk at Cecil Kilpin & Co., where she spent three years honing her financial acumen, mastering bookkeeping systems, and developing an intuitive understanding of client service. Chevonne has also held key administrative and bookkeeping roles within Tra-Col Solutions, steadily growing into her current position through hard work and a commitment to continuous learning.

Chevonne is deeply inspired by the collaborative culture at Tra-Col Solutions, which she credits with shaping her purpose-driven mindset and nurturing a positive working environment. With her sights set on further professional development and a strong belief in teamwork, she continues to grow as both finance professional and a valuable team player.

chevonne guta

Chevonne Guta is a dedicated and detail-oriented Financial Administration Officer at Tra-Col Solutions, where she plays a vital role in supporting the finance team’s daily operations. Known for her precision, professionalism, and collaborative spirit, Chevonne brings consistency and accuracy to the company’s accounting functions.

While currently pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce in Financial Accounting, Chevonne seamlessly blends academic growth with workplace excellence. Her passion for the accounting discipline is evident not only in her educational endeavors but also in the high standards she brings to her work.

Her career foundation was laid during her tenure as an Accounts Clerk at Cecil Kilpin & Co., where she spent three years honing her financial acumen, mastering bookkeeping systems, and developing an intuitive understanding of client service. Chevonne has also held key administrative and bookkeeping roles within Tra-Col Solutions, steadily growing into her current position through hard work and a commitment to continuous learning.

Chevonne is deeply inspired by the collaborative culture at Tra-Col Solutions, which she credits with shaping her purpose-driven mindset and nurturing a positive working environment. With her sights set on further professional development and a strong belief in teamwork, she continues to grow as both finance professional and a valuable team player.