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Rebin Zahid, a civil engineer residing in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, has dedicated over a decade to navigating the intricacies of oil and gas construction projects. However, in 2024, he felt it was time for a new direction—a transformation not merely in title, but in perspective.
“I’ve been involved in the specifics of construction—machines, concrete, everything,” remarks Rebin. “But I sought to delve deeper into management—how to lead, how to strategize, how to communicate efficiently with teams. That’s what led me back to academia.”
Translating technical expertise into strategic acumen
Rebin’s academic path initiated with online courses via Coursera. After completing training in construction management from Columbia University and acquiring Google’s project management certification, he stumbled upon the University of Huddersfield’s MSc in Management online program while exploring his next opportunity.
“I aimed to enhance my skills. I understood how projects operated at the ground level, but I needed a more profound comprehension of leadership, scheduling, and planning from a managerial viewpoint,” he elaborates. “I’ve observed managers who are solely theoretical—they don’t always grasp the on-site particulars. My objective is to unify both realms.”
Through the program, Rebin is already honing leadership abilities applicable to his present role. “One of the most significant lessons is how to guide individuals—not just issue commands, but to listen and learn from them, while aiding their development.”
Balancing family, 12-hour shifts, and a master’s program
Rebin’s life is hectic. He spends two weeks working on-site, followed by two weeks at home with his family and prioritizing his studies. During on-site periods, he endures 12-hour shifts from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. At home, he is a father to a 9-year-old daughter and 20-month-old twins, making time for his degree rather challenging.
“When my children are asleep, I rush to my laptop,” he chuckles. “That’s my time to study.”
What enables him to manage it all is Coursera’s flexibility. “Without this degree being online, I couldn’t pursue it. I would need to resign from my job and relocate to the UK—it would be unattainable. But because of the structure, I can study from Iraq, at my own speed.”
Another key element? Affordability. “In comparison to other institutions, Huddersfield’s program is more budget-friendly. The option to pay in installments was crucial for me.”
A vision for the future—and advice for others
Now enrolled in the MSc Management online program at the University of Huddersfield, Rebin has completed fundamental modules like Fundamentals of Management and is eager for forthcoming courses such as Strategic Management and Fundamentals of Leadership.
His aspirations are evident: “I aim to transition into a managerial role in construction—to plan, schedule, and lead projects effectively. With this degree, I’ll possess the technical and strategic foundation necessary for that.”
He offers this counsel to others contemplating a similar journey:
“Exhibit ambition and establish a clear objective. Even if your job proves challenging, don’t relent. The world keeps advancing—and each day, we hear about new technologies and fresh ideas. Don’t allow your work to become monotonous. Continue learning, keep progressing.”
Rebin stands as a testament that with resolve, discipline, and the appropriate online degree, even the busiest professionals can steer their future.
Interested in taking the next step like Rebin?
Explore the University of Huddersfield’s MSc in Management on Coursera and start building the leadership skills necessary to advance your career, all without pausing your life.
The post From Civil Engineering to Leadership through an Online MSc in Management appeared first on Coursera Blog.
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