Recently, Projex Solutions’ own Hayder Abbas had the privilege of speaking to a group of second-year chemical engineering students at the University of Bradford. The presentation, titled “Life of a Chemical Engineer,” offered students a candid and engaging look into the career path of a chemical engineer, from university life to thriving in the industry.
Hayder’s Journey in Chemical Engineering
Hayder graduated in June 2021 with a Master’s in Chemical Engineering, including an integrated placement year. His academic journey spanned institutions like the University of Leeds and the University of Bradford, giving him a balanced perspective on education and industry expectations.
Through his career, Hayder has worn many hats – from process engineering at Johnson Matthey’s global team to production optimisation at Stephenson Group, where he managed batch processes in soap and food manufacturing. Now, as a Process Engineer and Designer at Projex Solutions, Hayder has become an integral part of the team offering essential skills in HAZOPs, pressure relief calculations, and advanced design work such as P&ID generation and 3D scanning.
Bridging the Gap: The Talk
Hayder’s talk at the University of Bradford was refreshingly honest, diving deep into both the rewarding and challenging aspects of being a chemical engineer. Unlike traditional corporate presentations, which often focus on the glossy highlights of a company, Hayder’s session painted a realistic picture of day-to-day tasks, including:
- Writing detailed reports and troubleshooting minor but impactful issues.
- Prioritising safety above all else.
- Balancing technical expertise with effective communication with vendors and stakeholders.
A significant part of the talk was dedicated to bridging the gap between academia and industry. Hayder highlighted how university equips students with fundamental theories, while the workplace demands adaptability and problem-solving in real-world scenarios.
Engaging with the Next Generation
The session wasn’t a one-way dialogue. Hayder’s audience actively engaged, posing questions about:
- Securing placements and networking effectively.
- Mentorship opportunities and navigating IChemE resources.
- Differences between university coursework and industry priorities.
- Achieving work-life balance in a demanding profession.
One student’s question about the common pitfalls students face stood out. Hayder’s response emphasised the importance of asking “dumb questions” without fear – a vital step in learning and growing, especially during placements.
Reflections and Feedback
Reflecting on the experience, Hayder shared that the students’ curiosity and engagement validated the effort. For many, it was a refreshing departure from standard company visits that often double as recruitment pitches.
The presentation also benefited from the involvement of a faculty member who added context about integrating industry-relevant topics into the curriculum. This shift, though subtle, marks a significant improvement from Hayder’s own university experience just a few years ago.
Inspiring the Future
Speaking about his motivation, Hayder said, “I’ve always enjoyed mentoring and connecting with younger students. It’s fulfilling to share my journey and guide them in navigating their path.”
By providing an unfiltered view of life as a chemical engineer, Hayder’s talk undoubtedly left a lasting impression. His practical insights and willingness to share both successes and challenges served as a valuable resource for aspiring engineers.
At Projex Solutions, we’re proud to have professionals like Hayder who not only excel in their roles but also take the time to inspire the next generation of engineers. We look forward to supporting more initiatives that connect industry with academia.
If you’re interested in collaborating with Projex Solutions or learning more about our expertise in process engineering and design, feel free to get in touch.
