Interview with Kyrillos Ghaly: Mentoring the Next Generation of Building Professionals
Interviewer: Kyrillos, you’ve built quite a reputation as both a leader and mentor in the building certification and surveying industry. Can you tell us what inspired you to take on a mentorship role for junior professionals?
Kyrillos Ghaly: I’ve always believed that the future of our industry depends on the people we help develop today. When I was starting out, I had the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals who were generous with their time and knowledge. Their guidance shaped my career, and now I feel it’s my responsibility to pass on that same support. I know how crucial it is to have someone in your corner when you’re learning the ropes, so I dedicate my spare time to mentoring junior professionals whenever possible.
Interviewer: You’re also the Director of Building Certifiers Pty Ltd, a role that carries a lot of responsibility. How do you balance the demands of leadership with your commitment to mentorship?
Kyrillos Ghaly: I’m fortunate that mentoring is integrated into my daily work. As a director, I manage a team of building inspectors, engineers, certification experts, and support staff. Naturally, a lot of my leadership role involves guiding less experienced team members. Whether it’s through daily interactions, reviewing projects, or conducting site inspections, I’m always looking for ways to provide valuable insights and feedback to help junior professionals grow.
Interviewer: Your career has evolved quickly over the past seven years, from project assistant to director. How has this experience shaped the way you mentor others?
Kyrillos Ghaly: My career progression has given me a deep understanding of the challenges that come at each stage of a professional’s journey. I’ve been in their shoes—I know what it’s like to feel overwhelmed or unsure of your next step. That’s why I tailor my mentoring approach to meet them where they are in their careers, whether they’re just starting out or looking to take on more responsibility.
Interviewer: You’re also committed to your own professional development. How does that impact your role as a mentor?
Kyrillos Ghaly: Continuous learning is vital in any industry, especially ours. I’m always looking for ways to improve and stay updated on industry changes. Whether through courses, seminars, or professional development programs, I make it a point to keep learning. This sets an example for those I mentor, showing them the importance of staying curious and never becoming complacent in their careers.
Interviewer: You’re a member of several professional organizations, including the Australian Institute of Building Certifiers and the Association of Australian Certifiers. How do these memberships benefit the professionals you mentor?
Kyrillos Ghaly: These organizations provide incredible networking and learning opportunities. I encourage junior professionals to join and participate in these forums as they offer access to a wealth of knowledge and a supportive community. It’s one thing to teach someone the technical aspects of the job, but being part of a larger network allows them to expand their horizons and learn from other experts in the field.
Interviewer: You’ve been described as having a very hands-on approach, particularly in your involvement with project details and site inspections. How does this benefit the professionals who work with you?
Kyrillos Ghaly: I believe the best way to learn is through direct experience. I make it a point to involve junior professionals in as many aspects of the project as possible, whether that’s through site visits, reviewing building plans, or discussing compliance issues. By being involved in the details, they get a chance to see how theory translates into practice, and it helps them develop a more well-rounded skill set.
Interviewer: What do you hope to achieve through your mentoring efforts?
Kyrillos Ghaly: I want to help build a generation of professionals who are confident, skilled, and passionate about what they do. Mentoring isn’t just about passing on knowledge—it’s about empowering others to reach their full potential. If I can help junior professionals gain the skills and confidence they need to thrive, then I feel like I’ve made a meaningful contribution to the future of our industry.
Interviewer: Thank you, Kyrillos. It’s inspiring to hear how dedicated you are to fostering the growth of the next generation in the building certification and surveying field.
Kyrillos Ghaly: Thank you, it’s been a pleasure sharing my journey. Mentorship is a two-way street, and I learn just as much from the professionals I mentor as they do from me. I’m excited to see how the industry evolves with the fresh talent coming through.
This interview highlights Kyrillos Ghaly’s dedication to mentoring and leadership, offering valuable insights into how his hands-on approach and commitment to continuous learning are shaping the future of the building certification and surveying industry. His involvement in professional organizations and his daily interactions with his team ensure that he plays a crucial role in developing the next generation of industry experts.