On December 10, 2024, the American University of Iraq, Sulaimani (AUIS) hosted an Engineering Career Development Workshop, sponsored by Nahj Al Iraq (NAI), the exclusive distributor for GWM and Haval SUVs in Iraq. The event was a testament to AUIS’s commitment to equipping students with the tools they need to excel in their careers while integrating sustainability into their professional endeavors. 

Bridging the Gap Between Education and Employment
The workshop addressed the critical gap between academic preparation and the demands of the professional engineering world. It focused on three pillars essential for modern engineers: applicable skills, safety, and environmental sustainability. By engaging students with industry leaders through presentations, panel discussions, and interactive activities, AUIS provided insights into employer expectations and strategies for upskilling to meet industry needs. Dr. Nathaniel Switzner, Chair of the Engineering Department, opened the workshop by highlighting its purpose: “This event marks an important opportunity for us to connect as a community and prepare our students for their future careers. We aim to ensure our graduates are plug-and-play professionals, ready to contribute meaningfully to their chosen industries.” He also expressed gratitude to NAI for their sponsorship, acknowledging their vital role in fostering the next generation of engineers.

A Focus on Sustainability
The morning session of the workshop centered on sustainability, with a panel moderated by Dr. Ali Al-Waeli, a faculty member recognized as one of the top 2% of scientists worldwide. Key presentations explored the intersection of engineering and environmental responsibility. Mr. Raber Talaat from Sbey Research discussed the sustainability challenges in Kurdistan, highlighting some root causes such as misguided policies and inadequate education. Mr. Karam Faris, a researcher at AUIS, addressed policy perspectives and a realistic path forward. The session concluded with a dynamic panel discussion with the added insights from Ms. Lano Hunar (Maya Battery Factory), sparking dialogue on actionable steps toward sustainability in Iraqi industry.

Preparing Students for the Workforce
The afternoon session shifted focus to job readiness. Moderated by Rahand Hasan of Lafarge Iraq, the panel featured HR professionals from leading organizations, including Ms. Zhalla Nawzad (AUIS HR Director) and Mr. Arkan from NAI. Topics ranged from crafting standout CVs to aligning personal skills with industry requirements. Mock interviews provided students with hands-on experience and constructive feedback, helping them refine their professional presentation skills.

Building Connections and Opportunities
Throughout the day, students engaged directly with companies at dedicated booths, networking and exploring job opportunities. NAI’s innovative approach to showcasing their brand included a raffle, where four lucky attendees won the chance to test drive new Haval cars including both an environmentally conscious electric vehicle and hybrid SUV.

Fostering Excellence and Innovation
The workshop concluded with a closing ceremony led by Dr. Switzner, who presented the Fall 2024 senior awards and teacher appreciation award. Reflecting on the day’s events, he emphasized AUIS’s mission to cultivate graduates who are not only career-ready but also mindful of their role in fostering sustainable development.

AUIS continues to lead as a beacon of educational excellence in the region, preparing students to meet global challenges while contributing to the local community. This workshop demonstrated the university’s dedication to bridging academic and professional spheres, ensuring its graduates are equipped to thrive in an ever-evolving world.