Balikpapan - The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence continues to open wider opportunities for engineering graduates to contribute across various fields, including education and healthcare. Amid this technological advancement, Imam Muhammad Hakim, an alumnus of Electrical Engineering at Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK), has built his career by combining academia, research, and AI-based technology development.

Imam is currently a Lecturer in Electrical Engineering at Mulawarman University (UNMUL). Previously, he worked as an AI Engineer at Intellinum Inc., an international company focusing on the development of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning-based solutions. This experience became an important phase in his professional journey, especially in understanding how technology is developed and applied to address industry needs.

As a lecturer, Imam not only teaches courses in Electrical Engineering but is also actively involved in research, supervising students’ final projects, and supporting technology development projects. Beyond his academic activities, he continues to work on AI and computer vision-based projects, particularly for research needs in the healthcare sector.

For Imam, his time studying at ITK provided many valuable lessons. One of his most memorable experiences was working on research projects with his peers, participating in various competitions, and being active in student organizations. Through these experiences, he learned about teamwork, technical problem-solving, and the courage to face challenges directly.

“The most useful skills are problem-solving, analytical thinking, and the ability to quickly learn new technologies. In addition, research experience, competitions, and project work also helped greatly when entering the professional world,” Imam said.

The transition from university life to the professional world also taught Imam that technical skills alone are not enough. According to him, the professional world requires strong adaptability, good communication, teamwork, and a willingness to keep learning. The knowledge gained in class serves as a foundation, while experiences beyond the classroom become an important space for building readiness.

One of the proudest moments in his career was when he had the opportunity to work at an international company as an AI Engineer. That experience gave him broader insight into the technology industry. Today, as a lecturer, Imam shares the knowledge and experience he has gained with his students.

To ITK students, Imam encourages them not to be afraid of trying new things and not to rely solely on classroom theory. He urges students to gain more experience through projects, organizations, competitions, and internships.

“Do not limit yourself. You are in control of your own path, so do your best,” he advised.

Imam Muhammad Hakim’s story is an example of how ITK graduates have great opportunities to contribute in various fields, from the technology industry and research to higher education. Through a combination of technical skills, organizational experience, and the willingness to continue growing, ITK alumni can play an important role in delivering technological solutions that create meaningful impact for society.