Engineering Management: Why engineers should develop project management skills

Behind every great innovation is an engineer. However, we can sometimes overlook the work that goes into making that innovative idea a reality.

Meet Dr. Hossein Ataei, PhD, a UIC College of Engineering Clinical Associate Professor who teaches the MENG 401: Engineering Management course for the Online Master of Engineering with a focus area in AI and Machine Learning (MEng) program. Dr. Ataei teaches students how to manage engineering projects successfully and effectively in accordance with the theories, insights, and principles of the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK).

Dr. Ataei believes that artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning is the future of engineering, and engineers will need to make decisions based on making sense of large sets of data using the AI and ML techniques. Learn how his MENG 401 course is designed to provide students with the guidance and guidelines to make those big decisions for any engineering project they may be faced with.

Tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Dr. Hossein Ataei and I’m a Clinical Associate Professor and Director of the Construction Engineering and Management Program at UIC.

I am also the Director of Undergraduate Studies at Civil, Materials, and Environmental Engineering Department. Prior to joining UIC, I worked in the industry in different responsibilities ranging from project management, business administration, and engineering and management consulting for large-scale mega infrastructure projects. I have a PhD in civil engineering and master’s degrees in civil engineering, construction management, and business administration.

What are some of the valuable skills and knowledge that MEng students will learn in your MENG 401 course?  

MENG 401 is a holistic course on how to manage engineering projects. I teach students about project scope management, which is the process that outlines all the work that is included within a project, such as how to develop a project team, what are the requirements for developing a budget, what is the cost, what is the timeline, and how to develop a quantitative risk analysis.

We also answer all the questions relevant to your end product and how to problem solve. Questions include what are my risks? What are my deadlines? What are my milestones? What can go wrong? I teach students how to shuffle their activities to work simultaneously within a specific framework.

Are there any projects or real-world applications that students can look forward to in the MENG 401 course?  

The projects that we work on in MENG 401 are oftentimes projects that are currently in progress within a student’s current job or current corporate career. We also have ideation. Students will often bring in their ideas because they’re interested in starting a website, understanding ecommerce, or developing a marketing plan. We go back and forth in the worlds of engineering and business.

All these projects are real-world and practical. We keep it as real as it gets. Students are interested in understanding the steps of how to manage a project, such as learning how to do risk analysis or quality assurance. We follow the steps outlined by the industry using PMBOK, the international standard for managing projects.

What is the future for AI/ML in industry and workforce development?   

Artificial intelligence and machine learning is the future of engineering. Any decision we make in the world of engineering must be backed by data that we are collecting through these technologies and innovative means. We need powerful algorithms and powerful techniques, like AI and machine learning, to make sense of data to make decisions for projects. Learning project management techniques enables engineers or project managers to string together this data and information.

We provide MEng students with a sophisticated toolbox to tackle these decisions. Although it’s up to them what they do with this toolbox, it allows them to be successful in whatever career they choose.

What advice do you have for your students interested in pursuing their MEng degree?  

I have an old piece of wisdom which is “the journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step.” AI and Machine Learning is the future!  I recommend students think of their education as a powerful set of tools that will take them far and toward career success.  Our online program provides students with a great set of tools at their disposal that will bring them closer to their dream job, whether it is in a corporate setting, becoming an entrepreneur, or starting their own company.

The 100% Online Master of Engineering with a focus area in AI and Machine Learning program is designed to meet the career aspirations of talented, highly qualified students who want to build on their knowledge of engineering, computer science, math or other sciences, and take their careers to the next level. Our team of instructors and advisors are dedicated to helping you achieve your professional and personal goals.