Where are you from, and where did you go to school?

I’m originally from Iraq. I moved to the US in 2014. I have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Al-Mustansiriya University in Iraq and a master’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Colorado Denver.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?

I enjoy hiking alone; it’s my way to recharge and enjoy nature.

Where do you work?

I work at AtkinsRéalis as a project controls manager in Denver, Colorado.

What do you love most about your job?

I love seeing how effective planning and controls can turn complex projects into successful realities, especially when they positively impact communities. Each project brings new challenges, and I enjoy the problem-solving aspect that pushes me to think creatively and strategically.

Do you have a project story to share?

In one of my projects, I used Power BI to help organize the project controls work, including cost management, scheduling, and tracking change orders. This approach streamlined our processes and provided significant benefits to the overall project efficiency.

What are your future goals and aspirations for your career? Did someone inspire you to be on this career path?

I aspire to take on more leadership roles in project management, aiming to eventually become a senior manager or director. Mentorship from my previous managers has inspired my ambition to grow and lead teams effectively.

What is the biggest career challenge you’ve had to overcome? What’s been your favorite or most memorable moment of your career?

My biggest career challenge was managing a project with extremely tight deadlines due to unexpected delays. I coordinated closely with my team to prioritize tasks and streamline processes, ultimately leading to the project’s completion on time. A memorable moment in my career was mentoring a junior engineer, who later expressed gratitude for my guidance in navigating their first major project, reinforcing my belief in the importance of mentorship.

Why did you join AACE?

I joined AACE to connect with other professionals in the industry and build a strong network, which is essential for growth and collaboration. Additionally, I wanted to be part of an organization that offers resources and training to enhance my skills and knowledge in project controls.

What do you like most about being an AACE member? Or what’s your favorite part of being an AACE member?

What I like most about being an AACE member is the sense of community. The organization fosters connections among professionals, allowing for collaboration and support. I also appreciate the access to valuable resources and tools that AACE provides, which help me stay informed and enhance my skills in project controls.