<p data-start="107" data-end="573">I am writing to express my interest in the position of Assistant Professor in the School of Construction. With a PhD in Building Information Modeling (BIM), a Master&rsquo;s degree in Construction Management, and experience in teaching, research, and academic administration, I am eager to contribute to teaching, research, and academic development in areas such as Construction Materials and Technology Management, Equipment Management, and Safety and Quality Management.</p>
<p data-start="575" data-end="1196">I completed my PhD in BIM-enabled automation for construction safety, conducted in collaboration with Loughborough University, United Kingdom. My research focused on developing an automated safety-checking system that integrates BIM with safety regulations to identify fall hazards during the pre-construction stage and simulate their virtual execution during construction. This research strengthened my expertise in construction technology, digital construction practices, and safety management, and demonstrated how technology can enhance safety planning and project management in the construction industry.</p>
<p data-start="1198" data-end="1566">I hold a Master of Engineering in Construction Management, which provided strong foundations in construction planning, technology, and project management. My academic background allows me to effectively contribute to teaching subjects related to construction technology and management, while also integrating emerging digital tools into construction education.</p>
<p data-start="1568" data-end="2449">I have three years of teaching experience at the undergraduate level and currently teach Contracts Management, where I cover fundamental concepts related to contracts, tendering, and project execution. My teaching approach emphasizes active learning through role-play activities, case studies, and discussion-based sessions, which help students understand real-world construction scenarios and decision-making processes. I also incorporate Building Information Modeling tools such as Autodesk Revit and Solibri Office, demonstrating practical applications of digital technologies in construction planning, coordination, and safety management. Additionally, I have contributed to syllabus design and curriculum development for BIM and Contracts Management subjects, ensuring that the curriculum reflects current industry practices and technological advancements.</p>
<p data-start="2451" data-end="3157">My academic journey also includes over five years of research experience, with publications in high-quality Scopus-indexed journals and international conference proceedings. I have presented my research at both national and international conferences, contributing to discussions on BIM applications, construction safety, and digital technologies in construction management. I was also awarded the Commonwealth Scholarship, which provided valuable international exposure through academic learning, industry workshops, and construction site visits in the United Kingdom. This experience enhanced my understanding of global construction practices, safety standards, and research collaboration.</p>
<p data-start="3159" data-end="3613">Beyond teaching and research, I actively contribute to academic administration and institutional development. I have served in several roles including International Coordinator, Branding Coordinator, NAAC Criteria IV In-Charge, NBA Criteria II In-Charge, and ISO documentation coordinator. These responsibilities involved coordinating academic activities, supporting accreditation processes, and contributing to institutional quality initiatives.</p>
<p data-start="3615" data-end="4011">I strongly believe in promoting industry&ndash;academia collaboration, as it plays a vital role in bridging the gap between theoretical education and practical construction practices. Through workshops, seminars, and collaborative initiatives, I aim to encourage interaction between students, faculty, and industry professionals while also contributing to outreach and knowledge-sharing activities.</p>
<p data-start="4013" data-end="4500">With my academic background, teaching experience, research contributions, and commitment to innovation in construction education, I look forward to contributing to the School of Construction through effective teaching, impactful research, industry collaboration, and academic leadership. I am particularly interested in integrating digital construction technologies with construction management education to prepare students for the evolving demands of the construction industry.</p>
<p data-start="4502" data-end="4543">Thank you for considering my application.</p>
<p data-start="239" data-end="691">&nbsp;</p>
<p data-start="4545" data-end="4565" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">Dr. Shalaka Hire</p>