In the bustling city of Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, Rebin Zahid stands out as a dedicated civil engineer who has devoted over ten years to navigating the intricate world of oil and gas construction projects. However, in 2024, Rebin decided it was time for a transformative change, not just in his job title but in his entire approach towards his career.
Rebin reflects on his past experiences, saying, “I’ve delved deeply into the intricacies of construction—machinery, concrete, the entire gamut. But I felt a strong urge to delve deeper into the realm of management—focusing on leadership, strategic planning, and effective communication with teams. This desire propelled me back to pursue further education.”
### Converting Technical Expertise into Strategic Leadership
Rebin’s educational journey took a significant turn when he began exploring online courses on Coursera. After successfully completing a course in construction management from Columbia University and obtaining Google’s project management certificate, he stumbled upon an online degree program, the MSc in Management from the University of Huddersfield, while seeking his next educational milestone.
“I aimed to elevate my skills. While I was familiar with the nuts and bolts of on-ground project execution, I needed a robust understanding of leadership, scheduling, and planning from a managerial perspective,” he elaborates. “I’ve encountered managers whose knowledge is purely theoretical—they often miss the nuances of on-site realities. My objective is to bridge these two worlds.”
Through this master’s program, Rebin is already honing leadership skills that are directly applicable to his current role. “One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is about leading people—not merely issuing commands but actively listening, learning from them, and fostering their growth.”
### Balancing Family Responsibilities, Long Work Hours, and Academic Pursuits
Rebin’s life is a whirlwind of responsibilities. He spends two weeks on-site, working long 12-hour shifts from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., followed by two weeks at home. During his home weeks, he juggles the roles of a father to a 9-year-old daughter and 20-month-old twins, all while carving out time for his studies.
“When my kids finally fall asleep, that’s when I dash to my laptop,” he chuckles. “That’s my prime study time.”
The flexibility offered by Coursera has been a game-changer in making this balancing act feasible. “Had this degree not been available online, it would have been impossible to manage. I would have had to quit my job and relocate to the UK, which would be impractical. This setup allows me to study from Iraq at my own pace.”
Cost is another crucial factor. “Compared to other universities, the program at Huddersfield is more affordable. The option to pay in installments was a significant relief for me.”
### A Vision for the Future and Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Learners
As Rebin continues his journey with the MSc Management online program from the University of Huddersfield, he has already completed foundational modules like Fundamentals of Management and eagerly anticipates future courses such as Strategic Management and Fundamentals of Leadership.
His aspirations are crystal clear: “I am determined to step into a managerial role within the construction sector—to plan, organize, and lead projects with efficacy. This degree provides me with the technical and strategic groundwork necessary to achieve that.”
For those contemplating a similar path, Rebin shares this advice:
“Maintain ambition and have a well-defined goal. Even when your job feels challenging, don’t give up. The world is in constant motion, and every day brings new technologies and ideas. Don’t let your work stagnate. Keep learning, keep progressing.”
Rebin exemplifies that with steadfast determination, self-discipline, and the right online educational platform, even the busiest professionals can take decisive steps toward shaping their future.
For those inspired by Rebin’s journey and considering taking a leap toward advancing their careers, the University of Huddersfield’s MSc in Management on Coursera presents an invaluable opportunity to develop leadership skills and elevate your career trajectory without pressing pause on your current life commitments.
By embracing continuous learning and adapting to new challenges, we can all aspire to transform our careers and personal growth, just as Rebin has done.
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