Ahmad Zarei: A passion for problem-solving across the globe

In the field is where Ahmad Zarei, Senior Geotechnical Engineer at Cartledge Mining and Geotechnics, feels most at home. The dynamic environments of fieldwork and project management are where he thrives, and his passion for problem-solving, especially in rock mechanics, has driven a career that has spanned the globe.

In this article, Ahmad shares his experiences across academia and his profession. It’s a rich mix of travel, industry-leading research and expert project management spanning mines, dams, quarries, highways, shopping malls and more, often set against challenging backdrops, including economic constraints, geopolitical unrest and a global health crisis.

My career in engineering commenced with an exhilarating experience overseeing my first dam construction project, a defining moment that solidified my professional path. The inherent challenges, coupled with the opportunity to learn from natural phenomena, proved to be an ideal fit for my aspirations. Each subsequent project presented novel circumstances, fostering continuous professional growth.

Influenced by familial ties to the Iranian mining industry, including my father’s career as a metallurgist, I developed a keen interest in the sector. After completing my general engineering studies, I specialised in engineering disciplines and found my academic pursuits increasingly aligned with my career goals.

While a robust academic foundation is essential for engineers, practical experience is equally crucial in developing a comprehensive skill set. Civil engineering primarily involves manipulating human-made designs and materials, whereas geotechnical and mining engineering involves the complexities of naturally occurring elements. This interplay between human ingenuity and natural forces renders the field both intellectually stimulating and professionally demanding, particularly when confronted with intricate geological formations.

Throughout my career, I have excelled in leadership roles, serving as the linchpin between diverse teams of experts to ensure the seamless integration of project components. This position necessitates a holistic understanding of various disciplines, including electrics, hydromechanics, and hydrogeology, without requiring in-depth expertise in each area.

My professional journey has spanned numerous countries and encompassed a wide range of projects, from dams and highways to underground structures and mines. In 2023, I embarked on a new chapter by joining the Cartledge team in Australia. While the transition has presented its challenges, it has also afforded invaluable opportunities for professional development.

Navigating risk beyond the norm

Upon completing my master’s degree in rock mechanics, I, like many of my peers, was compelled to seek employment abroad due to the economic challenges facing Iran. Iraq, experiencing a period of robust construction activity, presented promising opportunities, and I therefore relocated there.

In 2014, while engaged in the study, design, and implementation of various projects, the region was destabilised by conflict, resulting in the suspension of air travel and the subsequent isolation of my team and myself. One project in particular was situated close to a highly volatile area. Despite the inherent risks, the project's critical nature necessitated our presence. However, given the difficult circumstances, meticulous attention was required regarding our movements and time spent within the region. The experience was simultaneously exhilarating and terrifying.

Research and innovation across regions

Subsequent to my academic pursuits, I embarked upon a doctoral research program focused on rock mechanics within the oil and gas industry. My research delved into the intricate domain of thermo-hydro-mechanical coupled numerical modelling in geomechanics. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the critical issues of caprock integrity and reservoir stability within naturally fractured carbonate reservoirs. Given their abundance in the Middle East, these reservoirs constitute a cornerstone of the global oil and gas industry. The presence of natural fractures within these formations significantly influences fluid flow dynamics and, consequently, production efficiency, exerting a profound impact on pressure build-up and cooling processes associated with subsurface fluid injection.

My research endeavours afforded me the opportunity to collaborate with renowned experts in Spain, where I resided for two years while affiliated with the Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC) and the Polytechnic University of Catalonia. The region’s abundant resources and advanced research infrastructure created an exceptionally conducive environment for both academic research and industry-related activities. This experience facilitated unprecedented global collaborations, expanding my professional network to encompass Europe and the United States.

In contrast, my experiences in regions such as Iran highlighted a disparity between the region’s wealth of talent and ambition and the constraints imposed by limited resources and technological capabilities.

Driving ideal outcomes amid challenging times

I was fortunate to complete my PhD shortly before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted my return to Tehran to be closer to family. During this period, I assumed the role of an independent consultant, undertaking projects such as the Tehran to North Highway. As a rock mechanics specialist, I conducted comprehensive inspections and devised solutions to mitigate potential road and tunnel failures. The successful project outcome, achieved despite pandemic-related challenges, underscores the importance of effective communication and strong client relationships. These principles remain paramount throughout my career, irrespective of location.

Effective communication and robust client relationships are fundamental to our field. Engineers must maintain a steadfast focus on project deliverables while cultivating a respectful rapport with clients. Timely responses to client inquiries are imperative. In instances where immediate answers are unavailable, providing alternative solutions demonstrates the consultant’s commitment to client satisfaction. This principle transcends geographical boundaries, as respect constitutes a universal language in professional interactions.

While residing in Brisbane, a city offering a climate and lifestyle reminiscent of Barcelona, my professional focus remains global, with current projects extending to Mongolia. The mining industry’s global reach is a subject of continual fascination. Australia’s mining sector, in particular, stands as an industry exemplar. Its substantial contribution to the national economy, exceeding 13% of GDP, is particularly impressive given Australia’s relatively low population compared to its vast geographical expanse. The industry's unwavering commitment to safety is another hallmark characteristic.

My role at Cartledge affords me the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse team of professionals hailing from mining-centric nations such as Europe, South Africa and China. The cross-pollination of expertise and experiences within this collaborative environment is invaluable. I am eager to contribute to Cartledge’s ongoing growth while tackling complex engineering challenges on a global scale.