Teammate Spotlight: Evert Zwarts –From Platinum Mines to Process Automation
Not many engineers can say their first big project was in a platinum mine, but for Evert Zwarts, that’s where it all started. Installing control networks deep underground in South Africa was the beginning of what would become a two-decade journey through the world of control systems.
Today, Evert is a Control Systems Engineer and DeltaV subject matter expert at Hargrove Controls & Automation, known for his calm problem-solving, wide-ranging expertise, and passion for helping others. Originally from Florida—Florida in Gauteng province, South Africa, that is—Evert brought his talents to Texas six years ago and hasn’t looked back.
Curiosity and Challenge
Evert’s path into automation began with a sales technician role at Fox Controls, where he serviced instrumentation and visited major industrial sites like Coca-Cola, BMW, and Bosch. It didn’t take long before he realized his passion was in control systems, which led him to roles in substation and mining automation, and eventually to a long-standing focus on DeltaV.
During his time with an Emerson Impact Partner in South Africa, Evert worked on more than 20 diverse projects—from greenfield builds and RS3 migrations to SIS design and DCS upgrades. Through these projects, Evert gained experience to earn his Professional Engineer accreditation from the Engineering Council of South Africa.
Joining the Hargrove Team
In 2019, Evert and his family moved from Johannesburg to Katy, Texas. A recommendation from a client led him to Hargrove Controls & Automation, and he’s been there ever since.
Since joining the Team, Evert has contributed to more than a dozen projects. With 16 years of hands-on DeltaV experience including batch systems, SIS, hardware design, and third-party integration, Evert is a trusted resource for Teammates tackling complex automation challenges across chemical, life sciences, and manufacturing projects.
“Evert brings an incredible depth of technical knowledge and a calm, solutions-oriented approach to every project,” said Nitin Gupta, C&A Petrochemical West Automation Leader. “Whether he’s leading a complex DeltaV migration or mentoring a Teammate, his dedication and problem-solving skills make a real difference for our clients and our Team.”
“I love working with talented engineers and learning something new,” Evert shared. “But what I enjoy most is being able to help someone. That’s what really drives me.”
Staying Active Professionally and Personally
Evert enjoys taking on new challenges, especially as artificial intelligence is changing the automation landscape. He’s also looking forward to branching into Ovation systems and exploring their application in power projects.
Outside of work, Evert stays just as busy. He’s the Cubmaster for his local BSA Cub Scout Pack and helps organize everything from camping trips to food drives and the Pinewood Derby. Evert is an avid runner (he’s completed the 56-mile Comrades Marathon three times), and he also enjoys biking, cooking, and reading.
What does Evert love most about Hargrove? “The support from both peers and leadership really stands out,” he said. When asked about his experience joining Hargrove, Evert put it succinctly: “Expect diverse projects and dynamic solutions.”
