At Tenable FEC, our success is driven by the dedication and expertise of our team members. Today, we celebrate Omar Bashrahil, who has been an essential part of our team for the past decade. As the KSA Lead – Operations Manager, Omar has consistently delivered outstanding results and has grown into a respected leader within our organisation. To mark this milestone, Omar reflects on his 10-year journey with Tenable FEC, sharing key insights and experiences from his career.

Why I Chose Fire Engineering

My journey into the field of fire engineering was fuelled by a deep-seated desire to protect both people and properties. Fire engineering is a unique discipline that encompasses a wide range of skills and knowledge, all of which are aimed at ensuring safety. The opportunity to be part of a field that directly contributes to public safety and the community at large was a significant motivating factor for me.

Another aspect of fire engineering that drew me in was the problem-solving element. I thrive on the challenge of working with other engineers to devise solutions to complex issues related to fire life safety. It is immensely satisfying to know that the work we do has a direct impact on saving lives and safeguarding assets.

 

 

My Experience at Tenable FEC

Joining Tenable FEC was a pivotal moment in my career. This company provided me with my first steps into the world of fire engineering, offering me the chance to work alongside highly skilled professionals. The learning curve was steep, but the experience I gained in fire engineering, risk management, and code interpretation was invaluable.

Being part of the Tenable FEC team means being committed to excellence. We uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and quality in everything we do. Over the years, Tenable has been instrumental in my professional growth, allowing me to contribute to a diverse range of projects and serve a wide array of clients. I am proud to be a part of this commitment to excellence.

Highlights of My Ten Years with Tenable

Looking back over the past ten years, it’s difficult to pick just a few highlights, as each phase of my career has brought its own unique challenges and rewards. However, a few moments do stand out. Completing my first project and securing my first major client were significant milestones that boosted my confidence and set the stage for tackling more complex tasks in the future.

One of my most memorable experiences was being called upon to resolve a significant issue on a project. The authorities had requested changes that didn’t align with any existing code or standard. Implementing these changes would have delayed the project and incurred unnecessary costs. I was able to successfully negotiate with the authorities, saving the project’s budget and ensuring that the client met their deadline. Moments like these reaffirm my commitment to problem-solving and client satisfaction.

A Project I’m Proud Of: Al Karamah School for People with Determination

The Al Karamah School for People with Determination in Abu Dhabi is a project I’m particularly proud of. We converted an existing school into one that caters to children of determination, implementing crucial safety measures for both students and staff. This project earned us industry recognition, and we were highly commended for the Consultant of the Year Award in 2018, a first for our Dubai team. This project stands out not just for the recognition it brought, but for the tangible impact it had on improving the lives of vulnerable children.

Facing Challenges

Throughout my career, I have encountered numerous challenges, many of which involve modifying buildings that were initially designed and constructed in a way that no longer complies with current regulations. Aligning these structures with the latest code requirements while balancing the satisfaction of both the client and the authorities is no easy feat. It often requires innovative and engineered solutions that meet the expectations of all parties involved. These challenges have pushed me to think creatively and remain adaptable, which are crucial skills in this field.

The Impact of Mentorship

My most important mentor has been my uncle, Sulieman Said Shahbal. His influence on my life and career has been profound. He was the one who encouraged me to pursue a major in fire engineering and even financed my education. His journey from a banker to one of the largest investors in East Africa is a testament to the power of dedication. His example has instilled in me the values of hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence—qualities that I strive to embody in my own career.

Advice to My Younger Self

If I could offer advice to my younger self, it would be to invest more time in reading and developing research skills. These are invaluable tools that enhance knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. In a field as dynamic as fire engineering, staying informed and constantly seeking new knowledge is key to success.

The Future of Fire Engineering

As a member of the millennial generation, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative power of technology in the workplace. In fire engineering, technology is increasingly playing a crucial role in providing efficient solutions to complex problems. The ability to access information quickly and effectively is a significant advantage in our field.

Looking ahead, I believe that the most disruptive factor in our industry over the next decade will be the adaptation to new technologies. Embracing these innovations, rather than clinging to traditional methods, will be essential for staying relevant and competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of fire and life safety engineering.

Omar’s journey with Tenable FEC over the past 10 years highlights his commitment to excellence and his ability to overcome challenges. His contributions have been invaluable, and we look forward to continuing to work together in the years ahead. Thank you, Omar, for your dedication and leadership.