Zabihullah Ibrahimi, born in 1982 in Kabul, Afghanistan, is a distinguished construction engineer based in New York.
With a robust educational foundation in engineering, Zabihullah has excelled in a career dedicated to significant infrastructure projects, including train stations, military bases, and advanced engineering facilities. His work is characterized by a deep commitment to enhancing transportation systems and contributing to national security through thoughtful, sustainable construction practices.
Migrating from Kabul to New York, Zabihullah Ibrahimi has navigated cultural and professional transitions with resilience and adaptability. These qualities, along with his technical prowess, have propelled him in the competitive construction industry. Beyond his professional life, he is a passionate football enthusiast, finding joy and community in the sport. Zabihullah’s journey from the historic streets of Kabul to the bustling environment of New York underscores his determination and dedication to making a lasting impact through his work in construction and community engagement.
Zabihullah, your journey from Kabul to New York is truly inspiring. To start, could you share how your childhood in Kabul influenced your choice to pursue a career in engineering?
Growing up in Kabul, a city with a deep historical canvas marked by resilience, I was always fascinated by how structures, whether damaged by time or conflict, stood resilient. This environment sparked my interest in engineering, as I wanted to contribute to building structures that not only stand the test of time but also improve people’s lives. My passion for creating and problem-solving naturally led me to this field.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when relocating to New York, and how did you overcome them?
Relocating to New York was challenging on multiple fronts—cultural adaptation, entering a highly competitive job market, and establishing a new social circle. I tackled these challenges by leaning into my work, which was my comfort zone, and gradually stepping out to network and build relationships within the community. I also joined local football leagues which helped me connect with others and find a familiar joy and team spirit in a new city.
In your current role, you work on significant projects like train stations and military bases. What drives your commitment to these types of projects?
These projects are vital as they serve a fundamental role in the functionality of society. Train stations, for instance, are hubs of daily commute and life. Military bases are critical for national security. My commitment stems from the desire to contribute to foundational projects that have wide-reaching impacts on daily living and security.
Can you describe one of the most innovative projects you’ve worked on and the technologies involved?
One of the most innovative projects was the construction of a high-tech engineering facility designed for renewable energy research. This project incorporated green building materials and advanced energy management systems that significantly reduced its carbon footprint. We used smart sensors and AI-driven analytics to optimize energy use and support sustainable practices within the building.
How do you ensure quality and efficiency in such complex constructions?
Ensuring quality and efficiency starts in the planning phase. We employ rigorous quality control measures and coordinate closely with all stakeholders to ensure every aspect of the project aligns with our standards and objectives. Regular inspections and adapting agile methodologies in construction management also help keep the project on track and efficient.
Shifting gears a bit, how does playing football influence your professional life?
Football is a fantastic teacher of teamwork, resilience, and strategy. On the field, you learn to trust your team, anticipate moves, and adapt quickly—skills that are directly applicable to managing large-scale construction projects. It keeps me physically active and mentally sharp, which is crucial in a demanding field like construction.
What advice would you give to young engineers who aspire to work on large-scale infrastructure projects?
My advice would be to focus on continuous learning and to seek out as many hands-on experiences as possible. The field of engineering is always evolving, so staying updated with the latest technologies and methodologies is key. Also, building a robust professional network is invaluable.
How do you balance your demanding career with personal life?
Balancing a demanding career with personal life is always challenging. I make it a priority to schedule regular time for family and personal activities just as I schedule professional meetings. It’s important to recharge and maintain relationships outside of work.
Looking ahead, what are some goals you have for the next decade, both professionally and personally?
Professionally, I aim to lead projects that incorporate cutting-edge sustainable technologies, pushing the envelope on what’s possible in eco-friendly construction. Personally, I want to mentor young engineers coming from similar backgrounds as mine, helping them navigate the field and find fulfilling roles.
Lastly, what does success mean to you?
To me, success means making a tangible impact. Whether it’s through the buildings I help construct that hundreds of people use every day or through mentoring a young engineer, if my actions help improve even one person’s life, that is success.
Read more:
A Conversation with Zabihullah Ibrahimi on Engineering and Adaptation
