Mulbah Gbozee’s career trajectory embodies the symbiotic relationship between infrastructure development and professional growth, particularly within the context of Liberia’s burgeoning economy. His journey, intertwined with the resurgence of Liberia’s rail system under the stewardship of ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML), showcases how strategic investments in infrastructure can create opportunities for skilled professionals to rise through the ranks, contributing significantly to national development. Gbozee’s story exemplifies the potential for individual advancement fueled by large-scale projects that simultaneously build national capacity and strengthen critical infrastructure.
Gbozee’s entry into the engineering field was facilitated by AML’s substantial investment in Liberia’s rail infrastructure. Graduating with a Civil Engineering degree from Stella Maris Polytechnic University in 2010, he secured a position as a Planning Engineer with Odebrecht, AML’s partner in the rail rehabilitation project. This initial role provided him with invaluable practical experience, grounding him in the intricacies of rail system development and management. He honed his skills in project planning, scheduling, and monitoring, contributing to the successful revitalization of a crucial component of Liberia’s transport network. This early exposure laid the foundation for his future leadership within the rail industry.
Following his initial experience with the rail project, Gbozee pursued further education, demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning that has defined his career. He earned a scholarship to pursue a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering at Central South University in China. This international experience broadened his horizons, exposing him to different engineering practices and cultural perspectives. Upon his return to Liberia in 2017, he rejoined AML, armed with enhanced technical expertise and a global outlook. He re-entered as a Rail Maintenance Planning Engineer, a role that further diversified his skill set and prepared him for greater responsibilities.
Gbozee’s dedication and growing expertise within AML led to rapid career progression. He focused on optimizing rail operations through meticulous maintenance planning and resource allocation. By analyzing data and coordinating with maintenance teams, he improved operational efficiency, directly contributing to AML’s Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) operations. This commitment to improving efficiency and ensuring smooth operations earned him a promotion to Rail Maintenance Manager in 2022. In this leadership role, he assumed full responsibility for the maintenance of both rail infrastructure and rolling stock.
As Rail Maintenance Manager, Gbozee has played a pivotal role in AML’s Phase II Expansion Project, a significant undertaking that aims to enhance the capacity of the rail system. He has been instrumental in coordinating the replacement of wooden sleepers with more durable steel ones, upgrading the rail profile, extending passing tracks, and improving track alignment and substructures. These enhancements are crucial for supporting the increased traffic anticipated with the expansion project. His involvement underscores the importance of experienced local professionals in managing and executing complex infrastructure projects.
Beyond his technical contributions, Gbozee’s development has been further nurtured by AML’s investment in his continuing education. He has benefited from various professional development programs, including a Postgraduate Certificate in Project Management from UCLA, a Maintenance Management Program at Dalhousie University, and several courses through ArcelorMittal University. He has also participated in ArcelorMittal’s Leadership Pipeline Program, demonstrating the company’s commitment to cultivating leadership potential within its workforce. His attendance at InnoTrans 2024, a major international rail trade fair, further reflects his dedication to staying abreast of the latest technological advancements in the industry. Gbozee’s commitment to lifelong learning exemplifies the importance of continuous professional development in a rapidly evolving field. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring engineers and highlights the potential for growth within the infrastructure sector. His community involvement, including mentoring young people and running a football club, further underscores his dedication to giving back and fostering the next generation of talent. Gbozee’s trajectory perfectly illustrates how infrastructure development can become a catalyst for individual professional growth and national progress.
