Embracing Change: My Journey from Engineering to Entrepreneurship
Life has a funny way of taking us down paths we never expected. When I first came to the United States to study engineering at the University of Michigan, my plan was simple: earn my degree and return to Kuwait to build a career. But as I settled into life in America, I found myself drawn to something completely different—entrepreneurship. I never imagined that one day I would be running a restaurant, let alone transitioning into the airport food and beverage industry.
If you find yourself at a crossroads, unsure of whether to stay in your current career or take the leap into something new, I can tell you firsthand that pivoting is not only possible—it can be incredibly rewarding. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way about successfully shifting careers and following your true passion.
Recognizing When It’s Time for a Change
For many people, a career pivot isn’t something that happens overnight. It starts with a feeling—maybe a sense of restlessness or curiosity about another field. For me, it was my love for food and the joy I found in cooking and serving others that planted the seed for change. While I enjoyed engineering, I realized that my passion lay elsewhere.
If you find yourself constantly daydreaming about another line of work, feeling uninspired by your current job, or envying others who have taken a leap of faith, it may be time to explore new possibilities. Change doesn’t mean abandoning everything you’ve built; it means using your existing skills in a new and meaningful way.
Leveraging Your Existing Skills
One of the biggest misconceptions about career changes is that you have to start from scratch. The truth is, every job you’ve ever had has equipped you with transferable skills. My engineering background taught me problem-solving, precision, and critical thinking—all of which became invaluable when I started my own business.
If you’re considering a pivot, take stock of what you already know. Are you great at managing projects? Do you excel in customer service? Are you naturally skilled at networking and building relationships? These abilities will serve you well in whatever career you choose to pursue next.
Taking Calculated Risks
Every major career move comes with some level of risk, and stepping into the unknown can be daunting. When I decided to open The Sheik Restaurant in West Bloomfield, Michigan, I had no prior experience running a restaurant. I was taking a chance, but I believed in my ability to learn, adapt, and make it work.
If you’re thinking about switching careers, don’t let fear hold you back. Instead, take calculated risks by doing your research, seeking advice from experts, and starting small. For example, if you’re interested in starting a business, consider working in that industry part-time or shadowing someone who’s already successful before making a full commitment.
Learning and Adapting Along the Way
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned as an entrepreneur is that you have to be willing to adapt. After running The Sheik for years, I transitioned into the airport food and beverage industry in 2001. It was a shift from traditional street-side dining to a high-traffic, fast-paced environment with its own set of challenges. But because I had already developed business management skills in my restaurant, I was able to apply them to my new venture.
The key to a successful career pivot is to remain a student—always learning, always adapting. Take courses, attend seminars, and never be afraid to ask for help. Growth happens outside of your comfort zone.
Building a Strong Support System
No one succeeds alone. Whether it’s mentors, family, or friends, having a strong support system makes all the difference when you’re transitioning careers. I’ve been fortunate to have people around me who encouraged my ambitions and offered guidance along the way. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you.
If you’re moving into entrepreneurship, networking is especially crucial. Connect with others in your industry, seek out mentorship opportunities, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice. The right connections can open doors you never even knew existed.
Trusting the Process
Changing careers isn’t easy, and there will be moments of doubt. There were times when I questioned whether I had made the right decision, especially during the early days of running my restaurant. But looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. Every challenge taught me something valuable, and every setback was an opportunity to grow.
If you’re on the fence about making a career pivot, trust the process. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but with persistence, passion, and the right mindset, you can create a fulfilling career that aligns with who you truly are.
Final Thoughts
My journey from engineering to entrepreneurship has been filled with unexpected twists, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. If you’re feeling stuck or unfulfilled in your current career, I encourage you to explore new possibilities. Identify your passions, leverage your skills, take calculated risks, and never stop learning.
Your career should be an extension of what excites you and brings you joy. And if that means stepping into the unknown, know that the rewards can be greater than you ever imagined.