CIM Graduates

CIM Graduate

Donia Abdelmotaal

School: New Jersey Institute of Technology

Graduation Date: Class 2017

Employer: Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ)

“Believe in yourself, work hard, stay consistent no matter how you feel, and do not let anyone bring you down.”

Where are you currently working and what are your main responsibilities?
I am currently working for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ). I am in the major capital projects department. As a senior project engineer, my job is to oversee construction from start to finish. My job is heavily field-based and II work closely with contractors to ensure the job gets done correctly.

Why did you choose to work with PANYNJ?
I chose to work for PANYNJ because I have a love for public service, and I have a passion for “paying it forward.”

How has CIM prepared you for your current job responsibilities?
CIM gave me the hands-on experience I need to tackle my current fieldwork.

Why did you choose the CIM program?
In the beginning, I was in NJIT’s five-year architecture program. I often heard that students were doubling up CIM with architecture majors. So, I thought, “why not me too?” I joined CIM and graduated from NJIT with both a Bachelor of Science degree in both CIM and architecture. I am beyond thankful I made the decision to do so. Fast forward three years later and I now also have my Master of Construction Management degree from New York University Polytechnic School of Engineering.

The CIM program works with businesses to provide summer internships for CIM students. During your time at NJIT, were you able to take advantage of that program or any other special programs to develop your industry knowledge?
Yes! I was fortunate that a professor at the time was pairing us with mentors to interview and discuss career paths. I knew I wanted to be paired with the Chief of Materials at PANYNJ. That same summer, I landed an internship in the materials department. Four years later, I work fulltime for PANYNJ. I completely believe that my chance of getting accepted into the Port Authority internship program would have been a lot slimmer
if I had not been enrolled in the CIM program.

What advice would you give to current students?
Believe in yourself, work hard, stay consistent no matter how you feel, and do not let anyone bring you down.