Bakhtawar Zafar

Energy Sourcing Engineer – CATL

Crossing borders, crossing comfort zones

They say every journey begins with a single step; mine began with a leap of faith. Leaving Pakistan for an unfamiliar world was a formidable challenge. The bustling Islamabad airport, once filled with the comforting sounds of home, became a gateway to uncertainty. In 2018, upon arriving at Széchenyi István University (SZE) in Hungary, I experienced both excitement and a feeling of being overwhelmed. Almost immediately, cultural shock set in, resulting in moments of isolation and doubt. However, it was precisely during these challenges that I began to grow. SZE evolved into much more than an academic institution—it became a supportive community that pushed my limits and transformed uncertainty into confidence. With the unwavering support of my professors and access to extensive University resources, I not only adjusted, but ultimately thrived in this new environment. Throughout my academic journey, the curriculum introduced me to the complexities of global economics, statistics, and both macro- and microeconomic theories ultimately leading to my International Relations diploma.

Empowered by experience

One defining project was my thesis, „A Time Series Study of Pakistan FDI and GDP as a factor of Economic Growth Post-CPEC Project.” This research allowed me to explore the impact of FDI on Pakistan’s GDP growth, deepening my understanding of macroeconomic factors. The analytical skills I honed during this project proved critical in my professional roles in energy management and procurement. Beyond academics, SZE provided opportunities for leadership. One transformative experience was my role as an international student mentor. This role not only honed my leadership skills but also reinforced the importance of empathy and patience—qualities central to my professional life today. SZE was a pivotal steppingstone in my career, particularly through its emphasis on practical experience and real-world applications of academic theory. Participating in the National Scientific Students’ Conference was eye-opening. These events helped me practice public speaking, engage with complex ideas, and build the confidence that would be essential in my career.

Energizing Opportunities Through Education

The pinnacle of my academic journey occurred when Schneider Electric—one of the world’s leaders in energy management—extended a job offer to me just before graduation. The relevance of my studies at SZE to my role at Schneider was immediately evident. My deep understanding of global economics and energy markets, combined with the soft skills I honed through academic events, provided me with a distinct competitive advantage. At Schneider, I was responsible for managing energy data and facilitating procurement strategies, tasks that demanded a robust command of both technical and financial aspects—competencies that were refined during my time at SZE.

After two and a half years at Schneider Electric, I sought new challenges. When CATL, a global leader in battery manufacturing, offered me the position of Energy Sourcing Engineer, I felt well-prepared to embrace this ambitious opportunity. In this role, I secure energy for a new battery production site in Hungary, negotiate power purchase agreements, and lead various energy projects. This position allows me to leverage the global perspective I developed at SZE, collaborating with engineers in China and Germany, as well as energy suppliers across Europe, to meet the demands of a rapidly expanding industry.

Lessons from SZE

Reflecting on my journey, it is evident that SZE was not just an academic institution; it was a catalyst for my achievements. Each step of my journey, from student to professional, has been shaped by my experiences at SZE. As I look to the future, I carry with me the lessons learned, the confidence gained, and the light that continues to guide my path forward.