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Student experience opens professional opportunities for masters graduate

Student experience opens professional opportunities for masters graduate

Published: 13 Jul 2023

Ibrahim Walaman-I

‘Being immersed in the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere of the city of London has broadened my horizons, exposed me to diverse perspectives, and provided unparalleled networking opportunities. Working in London as a Technical Sales Engineer at Naked Energy, a pioneering solar technology developer, allows me to thrive in the heart of innovation and collaborate with industry leaders, further enhancing my expertise and contributing to the transition towards a sustainable future’

Ibrahim, Postgraduate, Alumni

Technical Sales Engineer , Naked Energy

Renewable Energy Engineering MSc - 2021

From Ghana

Previous Institution

Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) - Chemical Engineering BSc

Which country do you currently live in?

UK

What are you passionate about and why?

I am passionate about pursuing affordable and clean energy, precisely aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 7. My unwavering commitment to clean energy is driven by the profound global issue of energy poverty and its far-reaching impacts on socioeconomic development, particularly in marginalised communities. Witnessing the debilitating effects of energy poverty firsthand has ignited a fire within me to make a tangible difference.

What does a typical day at work involve for you?

A typical day as a Technical Sales Engineer at Naked Energy, a pioneering British solar technology developer, involves a blend of customer engagement, technical consultations, proposal development, sales support, and continuous professional development.

I commence work by reviewing emails and prioritising tasks to create a focused plan for the day. My primary objective is to engage with potential clients who have shown interest in our solar solutions. I delve into technical consultations, conducting on-site visits or remote desktop analyses, and assessing clients' energy requirements and sustainability goals. With such information, I provide expert advice on tailored solar solutions and address technical inquiries. I design bespoke and optimised solar systems that generate significant energy savings, aligning with clients' needs.

I craft compelling proposals and persuasive business cases. I conduct financial analyses, modelling the return on investment and payback periods, to demonstrate the long-term cost savings and environmental benefits of adopting our solar solution. I participate in strategy meetings with sales and marketing teams. Together, we brainstorm innovative approaches for business development, identify target customer segments, and design outreach campaigns to expand our market reach.

Towards the end of the day, I take the opportunity to enhance my technical knowledge through self-learning and training. I wrap up the day by updating the customer relationship management system with the progress made and ensuring clear documentation of client interactions and next steps.

What are your plans for the next two years?

Over the next two years, I aim to deepen my knowledge and expertise as a Technical Sales Engineer, with a specific emphasis on expanding market reach, driving sales growth, and fostering strong customer relationships. As part of this journey, I aspire to become a respected thought leader in the solar industry by sharing my insights through publications such as articles, whitepapers, or blog posts. I also plan to actively engage with industry forums, webinars, and panel discussions, where I can contribute my knowledge and expertise. Ultimately, my goal is to establish a solid personal brand as an expert in providing cutting-edge solar technology solutions.

Why do you enjoy volunteering for Brunel?

Volunteering is deeply ingrained in me, and giving back to my alma mater, Brunel, brings me immense satisfaction. Brunel played a pivotal role in shaping my career and personal journey, creating cherished memories. It propelled my academic growth and fostered meaningful relationships and an expansive professional network. Now, I am fervently driven to contribute to the university's progress by dedicating my time, skills, and resources. Volunteering provides a unique opportunity to be a catalyst for positive change within the Brunel community, and I am honoured to play a significant role in its further development.

How would you say your Brunel experience has helped you to get where you are today?

My Brunel experience has been nothing short of transformative. Graduating with a prestigious degree in Renewable Energy Engineering, accredited by esteemed institutions like IMechE and the Energy Institute, provided me with a solid academic foundation. Beyond academics, Brunel nurtured personal growth, fostered connections, and offered invaluable practical experience and industry collaborations. This combination of knowledge, skills, and a supportive community has propelled my career as a Technical Sales Engineer with a pioneering solar technology developer. Brunel's contribution to my achievements cannot be overstated, as it has shaped the person I am today and provided the springboard for my professional success.

Why did you choose to study at Brunel and why would you recommend Brunel to others?

I chose to study at Brunel University due to its renowned teaching and learning excellence, specifically within the MSc program in Renewable Energy Engineering. The program's accreditations from the IMechE and the Energy Institute were compelling factors. Furthermore, the university's location in London, a vibrant city, combined with its diverse international student community and exceptional accommodation services, solidified my decision. I wholeheartedly recommend Brunel to others seeking a transformative educational experience because of its strong reputation, industry-focused curriculum, supportive community, outstanding facilities, and abundant opportunities for internships, networking, and cultural immersion. Brunel offers an exceptional education and promising career prospects for aspiring students.

What is your best memory of studying here?

My most cherished memory is my involvement in the Brunel READY programme. It was a transformative experience where I collaborated with passionate individuals to generate innovative solutions for refugees in refugee camps. Through this program, I built not only lasting relationships with like-minded peers but also gained tangible working skills and deepened my understanding of human-centred design principles. The opportunity to make a meaningful impact and contribute to improving the lives of others remains a standout moment from my studies at Brunel.

If you could give one piece of advice to current Brunel students, what would that be?

To fellow Brunelians, embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Engage wholeheartedly in academic pursuits and seize the diverse extracurricular activities offered. Cultivate lasting relationships, expand professional networks, and proudly represent Brunel as its ambassadors. Immerse yourselves in Brunel’s vibrant community, actively contribute to discussions, and embrace diverse perspectives. Step out of your comfort zones, seek internships, join clubs, and network with industry professionals.

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