Abrar Aziz: "Engineering businesses are really people businesses"
Where were you born and raised?
I was born and raised in Bangladesh, where I completed my higher secondary education. Growing up there gave me a strong foundation in academics and values that continue to guide me today.
I later moved to Australia to pursue my Bachelor of Engineering, which marked the beginning of my professional and personal growth journey in a new environment.
What attracted you to engineering when you were younger?
What really drew me to engineering when I was younger was seeing the impact it has on people’s lives. Growing up in Bangladesh, I became aware of how much difference good infrastructure and technology can make to a community – from reliable power and clean water to safer buildings and transport. That sense of purpose really inspired me.
When I moved to Australia to study engineering, that motivation only grew stronger. I wanted to be part of creating solutions that make life better for people and contribute to the greater good.
What were the biggest challenges for you at university in Australia?
One of the biggest challenges I faced when I first arrived in Australia was the language and cultural adjustment. Even simple things, like understanding everyday expressions, were new to me. I still remember when someone asked, “How you going?” and I replied, “To the university,” because I didn’t realise it just meant “How are you?”
Those early experiences taught me humility and the importance of communication. I also had to adapt to a different learning style – one that encouraged independent thinking and collaboration. Over time, I learned to embrace those challenges, and they helped me become more confident, adaptable, and empathetic, qualities that have stayed with me throughout my career.
Looking back at your undergraduate study, what might you do differently if you had the experience again?
Looking back, I think I would spend more time building confidence in asking questions and engaging with others earlier on. As a migrant student, I was quite focused on academics and improving my English, but I often hesitated to speak up or network. If I had the experience again, I’d push myself to connect more with peers, mentors, and industry professionals. Those relationships are just as valuable as technical knowledge – they open doors, provide perspective, and accelerate learning. I’d also make more use of practical opportunities, like internships or projects, to apply what I was learning in real-world situations.
You’ve climbed the ladder to a General Manager’s role quite fast. What are the top three things you have learned about the business of engineering?
First, engineering businesses are really people businesses. Success comes from building trusted relationships – with clients, partners, and your own team. The technical work matters, but it’s the trust and collaboration behind it that drive outcomes.
Second, the importance of strategy and positioning. Great engineering isn’t enough if the business doesn’t understand where it adds the most value, how to differentiate itself, and how to communicate that clearly to the market.
Third, leadership is about creating the right environment for others to succeed. The role shifts from solving problems yourself to empowering others – aligning them with purpose, supporting their growth, and giving them the confidence to make decisions.
What is one of your favorite types of project to work on, and why?
The best projects to work on are those that deliver a strong community benefit. My personal favourites are the ones where you can actually see the work being built and making a real difference – projects that contribute to the greater good and improve how people live and move. There’s something incredibly rewarding about watching an idea turn into something tangible that benefits the wider community.
If you had a 12-year-old child in front of you wanting to be an engineer, what advice would you give to help that child achieve that dream?
Three things: Stay curious and never stop asking why. Surround yourself with people who believe in you. Try new things and as many things as you can, and don’t be afraid to take risks.
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