I sat down with Mohamed Nihal🌟, a civil engineer turned construction management graduate, and the host of Career Chronicles. His journey spans from engineering classrooms in India to industry exposure and advanced studies in Australia, all while carving out a voice in the professional community.
📍Q: You’ve studied Civil Engineering in India and then pursued a Master’s in Construction Management at Deakin University. What inspired that transition, and how has it shaped your perspective on the industry?
Nihal: “I noticed many architects transitioning into construction management when I was doing civil engineering. In India, pursuing a master’s often meant picking a very narrow niche, and I didn’t want to be restricted. When I came across construction management in Australia, it felt like the perfect complement to civil engineering, not just repeating the same knowledge, but broadening my perspective. Talking to current students gave me the clarity I needed to make the shift.”
📍Q: You’ve done site visits and worked on construction internships. What’s the biggest difference between classroom learning and being on the ground?
Nihal: “Most of my site experience has been in India, and the differences compared to Australia are huge. In India, hierarchy is strict, approaching seniors felt impossible, and the power gap was massive. Safety wasn’t always a priority. In contrast, here in Australia, safety is the first consideration. That difference alone shapes how projects are run. I want to immerse myself in the Australian industry to really explore those contrasts further.”
📍Q: What’s been the biggest challenge in your journey so far, and how did you overcome it?
Nihal: “One big challenge has been stage fright. I know I’m a good communicator, but when speaking in front of people I fumbled, especially joining conversations midway. LinkedIn played a huge role in helping me here, initially, I was just a spectator, learning from how others engaged. Events at The Lounge, conversations with lecturers, and hosting Career Chronicles gave me the push I needed. Over time, I grew more confident, more present in conversations, and that’s been transformative.”
đź“ŤQ: One message for the world?
Nihal: “Delete Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook. Use that time on LinkedIn, invest in your network and your growth. If you really utilise it, it will change your world.”
✨Key Takeaway:
Nihal’s story is about building bridges, between civil and construction, between classroom and site, and between fear and confidence. By leaning into discomfort and choosing growth, he’s shown that sometimes the biggest career shifts start with the courage to change your environment and the platforms you invest your time in.
