From Civil Engineering to Leadership Through a Master of Management Online
Rebin Zahid, a civil engineer in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, has spent more than a decade navigating the complexity of oil and gas construction projects. But in 2024, he thought it was time to do more—not just in the title, but in the mindset.
“I’ve worked hard on the details of the building – machinery, concrete, everything,” Rebin said. “But I want to study it more deeply manage– How to lead, how to plan, how to communicate effectively with the team. That’s what got me back to school. ”
Turn technical knowledge into strategic insight
Rebin’s educational journey began with taking online courses on Coursera. After completing his construction management training at Columbia University and earning a Google Certificate in Project Management, he discovered a master’s degree from the University of Huddersfield online while searching for the next step.
“I want to upgrade. I know how the project runs from the ground, but I need to have a deeper understanding of leadership, schedule and planning from the manager’s perspective,” he explained. “I’ve met managers who only know the theory – they don’t always understand the details of the site. My goal is to bring the two worlds together.”
Through this degree, Rebin is already developing the leadership skills he can use in his current work. “One of the biggest lessons is how to lead people – not only to give orders, but to listen and learn from them while helping them grow.”
Juggling Family, 12-hour shifts and master’s degree
The life of rebirth is very busy. He worked on site for two weeks, then spent two weeks at home with his family and focused on his studies. He worked 12 hours at home for 12 hours at the scene, and he was the father of a 9-year-old daughter and 20-month-old twins, so finding time for his degree can be tricky.
“When my kids fell asleep, I ran to my laptop,” he said with a smile. “This is my chance to learn.”
What makes everything possible is the flexibility of Coursera. “If this degree is not online, I can’t do it. I have to leave my job and move to the UK – it’s impossible. But, it’s impossible.
Another important factor? Affordability. “The Huddersfield’s plan is more affordable than other universities. Being able to pay in installments is a big deal for me.”
Vision for the future and advice others
Now managed online admissions at the University of Huddersfield, Rebin has completed the core module Management Basics And look forward to the upcoming course Strategic Management and The foundation of leadership.
His ambition is obvious: “I want to enter a management position in the construction industry to effectively plan, plan and lead projects. With this level, I will have a technical and strategic foundation to do this.”
He gave this advice to others considering similar avenues:
“Have ambitions and set clear goals. Don’t stop even if your work is tough. The world is moving all the time – every day, we hear about new technologies and new ideas. Don’t make your work routine. Keep learning and keep moving forward.”
Rebin proves that with determination, discipline and the right online degree, even the busiest professionals can take charge of their future.
Interested in taking the next step like rebirth?
Explore Huddersfield University’s Master of Management degree at Coursera and start building leadership skills to advance your career without having to pause your life.
