Alumni Spotlight: Afolabi Sanusi
What does your current work look like?
As the Advanced Work Packaging Manager for the Cardinal project at Bechtel, my goal is to help simplify big construction projects that take years and thousands of people to complete. To make these building projects easier, I use a tool called Advanced Work Packaging (AWP). AWP provides step-by-step building instruction and helps organize components so they are easy to find. I use a lot of digital automations to supercharge AWP and make it more efficient; the materials and directions created by AWP are then given to craft professionals in the field. The tool makes complex construction projects much easier to tackle.
When were you first introduced to the field of engineering?
I was first introduced to the field of engineering via my dad and uncle. My dad was really into computers and sold computers in Nigeria. My uncle, on the other hand, owned his own construction company in Nigeria. When I was younger, I would go with my uncle to his construction sites and be amazed at how the buildings and facilities he worked on would change landscapes and impact the community for the better. I was also intrigued with how computers worked from being exposed to my dad’s work. My experiences earlier on in my childhood set me on the path to becoming a professional engineer.
What about this work inspires you?
What inspires me every day is making the lives of the people I work with easier by building strong work processes supported by digital automations to streamline construction. I also live for solving complex problems on a regular basis that require me to work with global teams and global resources.
What kinds of challenges do you face in your work and life?
I am currently striving to achieve a decent work/life balance and, honestly, getting enough sleep. In the midst of being hyper-focused on getting things done and solving problems, I sometimes struggle to get adequate sleep and be engaged in other things I’m passionate about. I am trying to read more before I go to bed and to make time to do things I love, like salsa dancing and hanging out with my friends and family.
A challenge I have overcome in the past was finding my way as an immigrant in America. I battled with anxiety and uncertainty when I moved to America and struggled to find my path and where I fit in. With time and focus, I have been able to build a career and chart my way to find supportive communities and networks.
What does it mean to you to be an engineer?
It means working tremendously hard to solve the big, complex problems of the world and making it a better place. It means pushing the boundaries of what is possible. It means being the embodiment of quality work and the safe execution of that work. It means working at the cutting edge of technology and the application of technology.
What advice do you have for students considering engineering as a field to pursue?
If you are drawn to solving complex problems and being a leader, engineering is a wonderful path for you. If you do get on the path of engineering, stop occasionally to look back and appreciate all the things you’ve accomplished along the way.
Favorite book?
This Is How You Lose Her by Junot Díaz.
Favorite podcast?
I Said What I Said
