You have had a long-standing career in the oil and gas sector. Could you share your journey from graduation to where you are today?

I graduated in 2008 with a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering. I joined Baker Hughes in 2013 as a field engineer and worked with them across India, Abu Dhabi, and Kuwait. In 2016, the oil market faced a recession, and I decided to explore opportunities beyond fieldwork. I soon joined General Electric as a sales analyst in their turbomachinery division. Interestingly, GE's oil and gas operations later merged back with Baker Hughes. So, in a way, I have been with the same company for over twelve years, though in evolving roles. Today, I work as a project manager, handling projects in Egypt and Kuwait and overseeing cash operations across the broader Middle East and North Africa region.

With a background in electrical engineering, how did you make your way into the oilfield services, something quite different from your academic domain?

Honestly, it was a journey I had not planned for. After graduation, I applied broadly to any technical company I could find. That is when I came across Schlumberger and, eventually, Baker Hughes. I found an opening in their LEAP program, a graduate training initiative, and decided to apply. I did not know much about the oilfield industry back then.

The selection process was rigorous: aptitude tests, technical rounds, group discussions, and presentations. Once selected, I was placed in the wireline department. As a wireline engineer, my role was to analyze well data and determine the likelihood of oil presence after drilling—a role quite far removed from my degree.

Before starting, we underwent a six-month intensive training program at their Jebel Ali center. It was a deep dive into technical theory, practicals, and regular assessments. The curriculum covered everything—from electrical and mechanical engineering to computing and basic chemistry. That period prepared me for the field, where I led small teams during both onshore and offshore operations. It was challenging but transformative.

What eventually led you away from the field and into project and financial management roles?

The work was incredibly demanding. Sometimes, I would be in the field for 50 hours in desert conditions or offshore rigs. It tested both physical and mental limits. The company was downsizing during the 2016 oil recession, and I saw it as an opportunity to pivot.

I joined GE as a sales analyst, identifying upgrade opportunities for turbines, compressors, and other rotating machinery in their fleet. It gave me insight into customer needs and strategic planning. That led to a role in assistant project management and cash collection. Eventually, I transitioned to complete project management, overseeing multiple international accounts. Each role has built on the one before it.

Looking back at your time on campus, did you participate in any clubs or associations that helped shape your journey?

I was not part of any formal clubs or groups. However, the culture and environment at BITS Pilani made a huge difference in my life. Coming from a school in the UAE, I was quite introverted and kept mostly to myself. But BITS Pilani changed that. The friendships I made and the openness of the campus community helped me grow into someone more confident and outspoken.

That shift was crucial. In the professional world, your ability to communicate matters just as much as your technical skills. You must make your presence known, speak up, and build networks. If you stay in the background, opportunities may pass you by. That is a lesson BITS Pilani taught me without a single formal session: it was just the environment.

In your opinion, what essential skill should students focus on as they prepare for life beyond BITS Pilani?

Public speaking and communication, without a doubt. You must be able to express yourself confidently and at the right time. It is something that will set you apart.

Equally important is resilience. The world after college is not always smooth. My first few years in the field were rough, mentally, physically, and emotionally. The work hours were long, and the conditions were harsh, and I often wanted to give up. But I kept going, and that made all the difference.

I often tell people that challenges will come, but you should not fear them. Face them head-on, and you will emerge stronger. Today, I feel satisfied with where I am, and I know there is still much more to look forward to in the years ahead.