My master’s degree has deepened my metallurgical expertise and helps me improve processes at work every day.

I studied MMet Advanced Metallurgy at the University of Sheffield. Prior to that I completed a BSc in Mechanical Engineering at California State University, Northridge, and then worked as a continuous casting machine (CCM) area supervisor in the production department at Kuwait Steel Company. I came to Sheffield to deepen my understanding of metallurgy and to bridge the gap between academic research and real industrial practice.

I chose Sheffield because of its global reputation in metallurgy and its historic links to the steel industry — the city’s industrial heritage and the university’s close ties to industry made it the obvious place to advance both my technical knowledge and practical skills. The programme’s strong industry focus meant I could take what I’d learned at work and explore it in a research setting, which was exactly what I wanted.

The course is highly applied and research-led, and the facilities here are outstanding. I’ve benefited from access to specialist labs and equipment that I wouldn’t have had back home. The teaching staff are very supportive and experienced in industry-relevant research. Sheffield gave me the resources and guidance to turn real operational problems into structured academic projects — a combination that has been extremely valuable for my professional development.

My individual research project examined the effects of oscillation parameters — stroke, negative strip ratio and casting speed — on oscillation mark formation in continuous casting. The aim was to understand how these parameters affect billet surface quality and to identify adjustments that could improve process stability at Kuwait Steel. The project produced practical insights into how small changes in parameters can influence surface characteristics, which in turn helped inform operational decisions on the shop floor.

Through this work I developed strong skills in industrial data analysis, experimental design and technical reporting, and I gained deeper knowledge of metallurgical principles. Perhaps most importantly, the project sharpened my ability to connect academic research with real-world industrial problems — from framing research questions to translating results into actionable recommendations.

My master’s degree has given me a deeper technical understanding of metallurgy and process optimisation, which I apply daily as a CCM supervisor. It has also prepared me to take a more analytical and evidence-based approach to my role, applying rigorous testing and analysis to improve process control and product quality. Beyond technical skills, working on an industry-aligned project helped me build valuable connections between academia and industry, giving me insights that will guide my future growth and open doors for potential collaborations.

Looking ahead, I plan to continue my career at Kuwait Steel, pursuing process optimisation and leadership roles; longer term, I aim to achieve a Six Sigma Black Belt and potentially a PhD to prepare for executive-level responsibilities.

My advice to prospective students is to make the most of every resource Sheffield offers — whether it’s the labs, academic support, or career services. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance; the professors and staff are incredibly supportive. Try to balance your studies with enjoying the city and connecting with people — it makes the whole experience even more rewarding. If you want to specialise in metallurgy and turn practical industry challenges into research and solutions, this programme offers the ideal environment to do it.