Beyond the Drawings: My Journey Into Project Management At Parsons
Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Abdulla Suhail Alrukn Alawadhi grew up in the UAE, inspired by its rapid development, which led to a passion for civil engineering.
- He pursued a degree in Civil Engineering and shifted focus to project management due to strengths in coordination and leadership.
- Joining Parsons as an Assistant Project Manager, Abdulla embraced growth and responsibility, contributing to significant projects in the UAE.
- Abdulla aims to have a lasting impact through their work, emphasizing continuous learning and the importance of building for future generations.
Inspired By A Nation In Motion
Growing up in the UAE, I didn’t just see buildings and roads, —I saw progress. Every new project represented ambition, vision, and a commitment to the future. I used to watch new projects being built and wonder how all the pieces fit together.
“I used to watch new projects being built and wonder how all the pieces fit together.“
That environment shaped the way I think and ultimately drew me towards civil engineering. I became fascinated not only by what gets built, but by how it all comes together behind the scenes.
From Curiosity To Career
I pursued my Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at the University of Sharjah, where I built a strong technical foundation and developed a deeper appreciation for the complexity of infrastructure systems. During my studies, I realized that my strengths extended beyond technical design…I was naturally drawn to coordination, planning, and bringing different pieces together.
‘‘That realization steered me toward project management, where I could combine technical understanding with leadership and communication to deliver outcomes that matter.’’
First Steps into the Real World
Before joining Parsons, I completed a work placement internship at Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) within the Water and Civil Division. That experience gave me my first real exposure to how infrastructure projects operate on the ground.
It was there that theory and practice finally connected. I saw how university knowledge translates into real execution, and it confirmed that I wanted to be part of projects that don’t just get delivered, but that create lasting impact on how people live and interact with their environment.
Joining Parsons: Where Growth Begins
In October 2024, I joined Parsons as an Assistant Project Manager. From day one, I felt part of something bigger. The pace, the scale, and the level of responsibility pushed me to grow quickly and think beyond my comfort zone.
“What stood out to me at Parsons was the trust. You’re not just learning, you’re contributing, taking ownership, and being part of decisions that matter.”
Being surrounded by experienced professionals who are willing to guide and support you makes a significant difference, and that collaborative culture has been instrumental in shaping my development.
Learning by Doing: Projects That Shape Experience
At Parsons, I have been involved in both road infrastructure and SCADA-related projects across the UAE. My role touches on many aspects of project management: coordinating between stakeholders, managing information flows, supporting planning efforts, and ensuring alignment across teams.
One of my proudest moments came from my involvement in a SCADA workstream, where I was entrusted with organizing and validating large volumes of critical project data. At a stage where clarity and accuracy were essential for progress, bringing structure to complex information and seeing how that supported smoother coordination across teams was incredibly rewarding.
Seeing that effort translate into clearer alignment and tangible project progress was a defining moment. It reinforced my confidence and showed me the real impact a project manager can have —not only through technical design, but through precision, coordination, and follow-through.
Rising Through Challenges
One of the most defining challenges I have faced is part of my role involves managing large volumes of unstructured client data. At times early in my career, the information was could be overwhelming and difficult to navigate. Rather than seeing that as a setback, I chose to treat it as an opportunity to grow.
I learned how to break down complex data, organize it effectively, and extract what was needed to keep the project moving forward.
“Challenges are where real learning happens. They force you to think differently, adapt quickly, and become better at what you do.”
That experience strengthened my attention to detail, my patience, and my problem-solving mindset, qualities that are essential for any project manager operating in a high-stakes environment.
Driven by Purpose: Building for Generations
What motivates me every day is a desire to grow, not just for myself, but for the impact I want to have and the legacy I want to create. As an Emirati, my work carries a deeper meaning. This is the country I was raised in, rooted in my heritage, and one I am proud to help shape for future generations.
“We may not live for hundreds of years, but the products of our creativity can leave a legacy long after we are gone.” ‘HH. Shk. Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum’HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai.
Being part of projects that contribute to the UAE’s continued development is something I take great pride in. Every deliverable, every coordination call, every resolved challenge is a small contribution to something far larger than any one project.
Looking Ahead: A Journey of Growth
I see my future in leadership roles, contributing to major projects and taking on greater responsibilities. My goal is to continue developing my skills, deepen my expertise in infrastructure and utilities, and become a project manager who delivers not just results, but lasting impact.
“Stay open to learning, take on challenges without hesitation, and trust the process. Growth doesn’t happen in comfort, it happens when you push yourself forward.”
My journey at Parsons is still just beginning. But it has already shown me that with the right mindset, the right environment, and a genuine willingness to grow, the opportunities ahead are limitless.
If I had one piece of advice for interns or young graduates embarking on their careers it would be: Stay open to learning, take on challenges without hesitation, and trust the process. Growth doesn’t happen in comfort, it happens when you push yourself forward.