Mustafa Eldeeb

About me

I was born/grew up in: Cairo, Egypt

I now live in: Vancouver, BC

I completed my training/education at: University of British Columbia – Bachelor of Applied Science (Materials Engineering)

What I do at work

My main daily activities are coordinating the teams to complete tasks within budget and on time. I also prepare and present performance reports to senior management. Throughout the day, I meet with various teams to support in solving their issues.

As Project Manager most of my day is spent dealing with issues/problems. It also means working with the various teams to find solutions. These problems can range from budget issues to 3D modelling mistakes and production delays.

Making decisions is a very key part of my job. Over time, I’ve learned to make decisions quickly. I also make sure I have a rationale behind each decision and can justify it. I usually start with defining the problem, the stakeholders, harms and benefits. Then I develop a few options to consider and finally pick the best one.

My background in Engineering helps me in critical thinking and problem solving. It also helps me understand and communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical members of the team.

My career path is

I completed a Bachelor of Applied Science in Materials Engineering from UBC. After I graduated I started working at Seaspan Shipyards.

I became interested in Project Management a few years ago due to the exciting and diverse nature of the work. I began working as an Assistant Project Manager. In this role I took on different responsibilities and further developed my skills. When a Project Manager’s position became available, I jumped at it!

There were a lot of failures and rejections over the years. The most important thing is that I was able to learn from them!

I am motivated by

I get excited by new challenges and solving complex problems. I enjoy working and collaborating with different teams. Each member has different backgrounds and knowledge. Working with these different teams means that I am constantly learning something new.

How I affect peoples’ lives

Being a Project Manager at Seaspan Shipyards means that every day is different! There are always new issues or problems to solve, which can be very exciting! I am constantly challenged and stimulated at work. Keeping the shipyard running is a major benefit to Canada’s economy and its capability to design and manufacture its own ships!

Outside of work I

I do Kickboxing and play tennis on weekends with friends. I also enjoy hiking and going on road trips and finding new restaurants to eat great food at!

My advice to others

Always seek to be learning something new in whatever field excites you. Be able to take criticism to improve yourself.