Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) has once again proven its ability to produce graduates who excel not only in Indonesia but also on the international stage. One inspiring story comes from Rizky Edytya, a Mechanical Engineering graduate who studied at ITK from 2015 to 2019 and is now working as a Directional Drilling Engineer at the renowned oil and gas company, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) in the United Arab Emirates.

ITK: A Strong Foundation for a Career

Reflecting on his university years, Rizky shared that ITK was a significant place in his life. "At ITK, I gained not only technical knowledge in Mechanical Engineering but also valuable soft and hard skills that are crucial in the workforce. The dynamic campus environment helped me grow academically and personally," he said.

During his time at ITK, Rizky learned various theories and skills that are now highly relevant to his work. For example, Fluid Mechanics helped him understand hydrostatic pressure in oil and gas drilling processes. Knowledge of Torque and Drag also supported drilling planning, while material science knowledge is essential for selecting the right tools for the drilling process.

Career at ADNOC: Challenges and Opportunities

As a Directional Drilling Engineer, Rizky's role involves planning and overseeing oil and gas drilling operations using advanced technology such as Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA) tools. This process must prioritize safety and efficiency.

"The main challenge is ensuring that the entire process goes according to plan without interruptions, such as Non-Productive Time (NPT) or workplace accidents. This requires excellent collaboration between all involved parties," Rizky explained.

Message for ITK's Next Generation

According to Rizky, skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, effective communication, and negotiation are invaluable in the workplace. "I learned all of these at ITK, both through academics and extracurricular activities," he added.

Rizky also emphasized the importance of understanding one's field of interest and mapping out a career path after graduation. Communication is key, especially during job interviews, to effectively convey one’s qualities to recruiters. Mastery of foreign languages is a must-have skill that adds value. Additionally, preparing for aptitude tests based on logic, physics, and mathematics is essential for securing opportunities in strategic sectors like oil and gas. Lastly, Rizky reminded students to create a compelling CV that aligns with recruiter standards to boost their chances of landing a job.

ITK for the Future

Rizky Edytya's story is a testament to how ITK alumni can compete and contribute on a global level. With a spirit of learning, thorough preparation, and a willingness to keep evolving, ITK students can seize great opportunities across various industries.