Denis Amanya

An Advanced Diploma graduate, Denis Amanya, shares his experience with an online course from the Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT) and why he recommends it to prospective students.

Denis Amanya, a Dubai resident, recently finished his Advanced Diploma in Industrial Automation Engineering with EIT and has now enrolled in EIT’s Bachelor of Science (Industrial Automation Engineering). This article delves into his journey and how he effectively balanced his work and studies while sharing why he favors online courses.

What made you decide to pursue an Advanced Diploma in Industrial Automation through an online course?

After starting a career in Electrical Engineering, I became involved in implementing SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems for temporary power plants across Africa. This experience sparked an interest in Industrial Automation, and I decided to pursue further education to advance my knowledge.

I sought out a course that would provide me with the necessary skills and expertise in this area, in order to excel in my career and take on more challenging projects. This decision proved to be a turning point in my career as it allowed me to gain the specialized knowledge and training needed to succeed in the field of Industrial Automation.

How did you balance your studies with other commitments during the two years of your online course?

The flexibility of the course schedule and live webinar timings were crucial for me to fit the course into my busy work and family schedule. With the ability to choose from three different time slots in 24 hours, I could attend live webinars and complete coursework at convenient times.

This meant I did not have to sacrifice my work or family obligations to pursue further education in my field. The course’s online nature also allowed me to access course material from anywhere with an internet connection, further adding to the convenience and accessibility of the program.

Can you describe a particularly challenging project or assignment you completed during the online course and how you succeeded?

The group project in my engineering course was a challenging but rewarding experience. As the group leader, I coordinated a team of individuals from different time zones to work on a project. Finding a time that worked for everyone to meet and collaborate was a significant challenge. Still, we overcame this obstacle through effective communication and carefully allocating roles and responsibilities.

Despite the difficulties of coordinating a group with members from different parts of the world, we could work together effectively and produce a successful project. We leveraged various online collaboration tools to help us stay connected and share information, and we regularly checked in to ensure we were all on the same page. Overall, the group project was a valuable learning experience in terms of the technical skills we developed and the teamwork and communication skills that are essential in any engineering project.

Which specific skills and knowledge did you acquire through the advanced diploma program, and what are your intentions for utilizing them in your future career?

During the course, I gained more in-depth knowledge on various topics such as wireless ethernet and TCP networking, PLC and SCADA systems, radio telemetry, IoT systems, and project management. These topics were particularly relevant to my work in industrial automation, and I found the course content practical and applicable. Since completing the course, I have applied the knowledge I gained to my day-to-day work. The knowledge I gained during the course will continue to be helpful as I continue to work in industrial automation.

What were the most valuable aspects of the online course, and how did they help you in your studies?

The industrial expertise the course lecturers possessed proved crucial as they often presented relevant scenarios. Additionally, the availability of the online library and remote labs played a vital role in enhancing my understanding of the various aspects covered in the course.

How would you advise other students who are contemplating the pursuit of an online course as a means of advancing their education?

I highly recommend online courses to anyone looking to further their education, especially those with busy schedules or other commitments. Online courses offer great flexibility in scheduling and location, allowing students to study at their own pace and from virtually anywhere.
This is particularly useful for individuals balancing work, family, or other responsibilities alongside their studies. Additionally, online courses often provide various resources and support to help students succeed, such as access to online libraries, discussion forums, and tutoring services.

What are your plans for professional development after finishing the advanced diploma program?

Enrolling in the Bachelor of Science (Industrial Automation Engineering) will provide an opportunity to enhance my knowledge and skills in the field of Industrial Automation Engineering. Through this program, I will be able to gain deeper insights into the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the field. This program will help me build a strong foundation in the core concepts of Industrial Automation Engineering and equip me with the skills needed to excel in my career. Additionally, obtaining this degree will demonstrate my commitment to continued learning and professional development to potential employers.

What are your long-term career goals, and how has the online course helped you to achieve them?

I aim to lead a team of highly skilled engineering professionals whose primary responsibility is to design, install, and commission industrial automation systems. I recognize the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies to achieve this goal. That’s why I decided to pursue an online course in industrial automation engineering, which has equipped me with valuable knowledge and skills in areas such as wireless ethernet and TCP networking, PLC and SCADA systems, radio telemetry, IoT systems, and project management.

By enrolling in this online course, I’m on the right track to achieving my long-term career aspirations. With my newfound knowledge and skills, I feel better prepared to lead my team and drive successful project completion.

How do you think the skills and knowledge you gained from the advanced diploma program will help you succeed in your future career?

Applying the skills and knowledge gained from the online course in my current work has been essential for my development and success in my career. Through the course, I gained a broad range of technical and managerial skills, which have allowed me to better understand and solve problems in my day-to-day work.