Who We Are

Kynetik Ark is a future-focused education and training company, delivering expert-developed course content for the manufacturing and education sectors.

With a unique blend of deep expertise in materials science and the realities of the manufacturing and welding industries, we help technical partners modernise the way they train, teach, and think. From programs that prepare students for the real world, to bespoke training materials crafted for the manufacturing sector, we are building a new standard for learning in motion.

Our Approach

Every organisation is different, which is why bespoke training is at the heart of Kynetik Ark.

We work closely with clients to understand their people, processes, alloys, and standards. Then we design courses that are practical, engaging, and aligned with both immediate needs and long-term growth. Whether it’s welding metallurgy, design, heat treatment, or compliance with Australian and international standards, our training is designed to make an impact from the workshop floor to the boardroom.

A group of diverse construction workers and engineers wearing safety helmets and vests at a construction site.

Our Mission and Vision

At Kynetik Ark, we believe learning should move, it should spark curiosity, bend boundaries, and evolve with the world around us.

We are a vessel for the future of training, navigating the space where advanced manufacturing, materials expertise, and innovative education converge.

Our mission is to empower industry leaders, educators, and training institutions with the tools to build skills that last, not just for today, but for whatever tomorrow brings.

We’re not just another training provider.
We are Kynetik Ark.
And we’re building the future, skill by skill, spark by spark.

Meet the Founder

Black and white portrait of a friendly and professional man wearing glasses, a black polo shirt with a logo, chino pants, standing with arms crossed against a plain background.
“Education transforms people. People transform industries.”
— Cornelis Van Niekerk

From a small community where farming, heavy industry, and local manufacturing shaped everyday life, I have developed an early appreciation for how education can transform people and industries.

That spark grew into a career spanning continents and disciplines:

  • A PhD in welding and materials engineering and advanced studies in metallurgy and welding (University of Wollongong), masters degree in laser welding and alloy design, international welding engineer (IWE), bachelors- and honours degrees in materials engineering.

  • Recognised internationally as an award-winning lecturer (Institute of Materials, Minerals, and Mining - IOM3, UK).

  • Recipient of the Harvey Shacklock Gold Medal for significant contributions to the welding industry.

  • Trainer and mentor to engineers, technologists, inspectors, and supervisors across Australia and beyond.

  • Worked for the peak body in welding in Australia as manager of advanced manufacturing.

  • Lectured at the University of Wollongong, undergraduate- and postgraduate students.

Cornelis is driven by a simple passion: empowering people through education. He believes that tailored training not only improves careers, but also strengthens the industries and communities they serve.