BRYMO'S TAKE

Transitioning from academia to industry is a journey that many scholars contemplate but few truly understand until they experience it firsthand. My own journey began in 2014, when I embarked on a Master’s degree in Electronic and Electrical Engineering. Over the years, I’ve earned a doctorate, and I am now on the cusp of completing a second Ph.D. This academic odyssey has taken me across continents, including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, the United States, Spain, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Along the way, I’ve held roles as a tutor, university lecturer, research assistant, Erasmus exchange researcher, and postdoctoral research fellow.

While my initial goal was to become a university professor and mentor aspiring engineers, my experiences have reshaped my perspective.

One of the most striking revelations of my journey is the significant disconnect between academic research and industry needs. In engineering, the ultimate goal should be to solve human problems. However, much of the research conducted in universities is far removed from practical applications. While professors in fields like the arts or social sciences may focus on theoretical contributions, engineering research should ideally bridge the gap between theory and real-world solutions.

Unfortunately, many engineering professors are caught in a publication race, prioritizing the quantity of their research over its practical impact. This approach often leads to research that, while impressive in academic circles, lacks relevance to industry challenges. The reality is that impactful research isn’t about the number of equations or theoretical models—it’s about the social and practical impact it creates.

For those aspiring to be effective and impactful engineering professors, industry experience is invaluable. It’s not enough to possess theoretical knowledge; hands-on experience enhances teaching and enables professors to conduct industry-relevant research. This perspective has driven my own transition into the industry. It’s become clear to me that to truly mentor the next generation of engineers, one must understand the practical challenges they will face.

The transition from academia to industry is not without its challenges. Here are some lessons I’ve learned:

1. Skills Matter More Than Degrees While a Ph.D. or advanced degree is a valuable credential, it’s merely a ticket to gain an audience. Employers prioritize skills over qualifications. Without the necessary skills, even the most advanced degree may not lead to employment. Ph.D. holders should focus on developing practical skills that are relevant to industry needs, such as:
   • Data analysis
   • Feasibility studies
   • Report writing
   • Research and development
   • Compliance with standards
2. Be Teachable One of the most important qualities you can demonstrate in the industry is a teachable attitude. Employers value candidates who are willing to learn and adapt. Avoid presenting yourself as a jack of all trades or exaggerating your capabilities. Remember, you’re speaking to experts who can easily discern your actual expertise.
3. The Importance of Networking and Human Relations Human relations and networking are crucial in both academia and industry. Building strong professional relationships can open doors to opportunities and collaborations that you might not have anticipated.
4. Integrity and Honesty Never lie about your capabilities. Industry professionals are experts in their fields, and they will quickly see through any false claims. Honesty and integrity go a long way in establishing trust and credibility.
5. Faith and Trust in God For me, faith has been a cornerstone of my journey. The Bible reminds us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5-6). Committing my ways to the Lord has given me direction and peace, even in uncertain times.

As I transition fully into the industry, I carry with me lessons from a rich academic journey. For aspiring engineering professors and researchers, my advice is simple: prioritize impact over accolades. Pursue industry experience to enhance your teaching and research. And above all, remain teachable, honest, and committed to making a difference.

The journey from academia to industry is a transformative one, and while it’s not without its challenges, it offers unparalleled opportunities to create meaningful impact. Let us, as engineers and researchers, strive to bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that our work truly serves humanity.