The Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries (ItalCham) hosted its prestigious 2026 Business Excellence Awards on Friday, 15 May 2026, at the @Sandton Hotel in Johannesburg. The elegant black-and-white gala celebrated leaders strengthening bilateral trade, innovation, and economic collaboration between Italy and South Africa.
The evening’s highest honour was awarded to Aurelio Grech-Cumbo, the visionary leader behind RGC Engineering, recognised for his exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and ongoing commitment to bridging Italian technological excellence with South African industrial capability.
RGC Engineering: Transforming the manufacturing landscape
Under Aurelio’s leadership, RGC Engineering has evolved into an industrial trailblazer, contributing significantly to the growth and advancement of the manufacturing sector through key projects and national initiatives.
Aurelio Grech-Cumbo
One of the company’s latest flagship developments is a state-of-the-art metrology and training facility in Johannesburg, aimed at strengthening precision engineering capabilities and supporting the future development of South Africa’s manufacturing workforce. Under his guidance, the company has evolved into a respected provider of advanced metrology and precision engineering solutions, working alongside global industry leaders and maintaining the highest standards through ISO 9001 certification and SANAS accreditation.
Strengthening South Africa’s manufacturing future
As the elected Group Treasurer of Production Technologies Association of South Africa, Aurelio also actively champions the local tool, die and mould (TDM) industry.
He additionally plays a vital role in the INTSIMBI National Tooling Initiative – a joint programme between PtSA and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) – focused on revitalising and strengthening South Africa’s tooling and advanced manufacturing capabilities through strategic industry development, skills advancement, and industry collaboration.
Aurelio’s recognition at the ItalCham Business Excellence Awards highlights the important role industry leaders play in driving innovation, investment, and international partnerships within South Africa’s manufacturing sector.
His work continues to demonstrate how collaboration between global expertise and local industry capability can create meaningful opportunities for growth, technology transfer, and long-term industrial sustainability. The award not only celebrates personal achievement, but also reflects the growing strength and potential of South Africa’s engineering and manufacturing industries on the global stage.
For further details contact RGC Engineering on TEL: 011 887 0800 or alternatively visit www.rgcengineering.co.za
