Kazakhstani Award-Winner Brings a Passion for Logistics Across the Globe, Fulfills Dream with Supply Chain Degree

This interview was originally published in fall 2024. Yerkin is now Director of Business Development at Caspian Integrated Maritime Solutions Ltd.

What led you to earn your master’s degree at this point? Why did you choose to fulfill your goal at Metropolitan College?
My motivation to earn my master’s degree at this point in my career stems from several factors. First, all of my prior education has been completed in Kazakhstan. I hold a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a specialization in management at KIMEP (the city of Almaty), a master’s degree in oil and gas at Yessenov University (the city of Aktau), and another master’s in business administration with a specialization in marketing at AlmaU (the city of Almaty). It has always been my dream to study at a prestigious institution in Europe or the United States. Through my professional experience, I realized the necessity of further education in logistics. Additionally, I have always aspired to live abroad with my family so that my children can experience new cultures, technologies, and environments. This led me to choose the master’s program at Boston University’s Metropolitan College.

What do you find most fascinating about the discipline of supply chain management? Do you have a particular focus within the broader field?
Within the broader field of supply chain management, my particular focus is on logistics and transportation. Over the past 18 years, I have been working in maritime logistics in Kazakhstan. Supply chain management is a crucial factor in Central Asia, which is strategically located between China, Russia, Europe, and other key countries. This region has significant transportation potential, and effective logistics strategies are essential to harnessing this potential, streamlining operations, reducing environmental impact, and contributing to the overall sustainability of the supply chain. My professional experience and aspirations drive my focus on driving innovation and efficiency in this sector.

Congratulations on your high achievement in the Supply Chain Management program and your Award for Excellence in your studies! Looking back, what do you consider to be the main ingredients of your success?
Reflecting on my achievement in the Supply Chain Management program and the Award for Excellence in my studies, I attribute my success to several key factors. First, my hard work and dedication proved fundamental. Throughout my career, I have accumulated extensive experience, particularly in maritime logistics, which laid a solid foundation for my academic pursuits.

Second, my genuine interest in the subject matter has been crucial. I have always been fascinated by the complexities and intricacies of supply chain management, which has fueled my motivation to delve deeper into the topics and excel in my studies. Additionally, my enthusiasm for group work and collaboration has played a significant role. Engaging with my peers, sharing insights, and learning from diverse perspectives have enriched my understanding and contributed to my overall success.

Lastly, a sense of curiosity has always driven me. Embracing the philosophy of “always stay curious” has encouraged me to explore new ideas, challenge myself, and continually seek improvement. This curiosity has been a driving force behind my achievements and will continue to guide me in my future endeavors.

How were you able to juggle your studies with your commitments outside the classroom?
Successfully balancing my studies with commitments outside the classroom all came down to internal desire and effective time management. When you have a genuine passion for what you’re doing, you can always find time for everything. The key is to properly plan your day, week, and month. By knowing the schedule of classes, deadlines for assignments, exams, and other commitments, you can stay organized and on track. This proactive approach ensures that you never feel overwhelmed and can meet all your responsibilities efficiently.

Was your success in the program driven by a particular outcome—such as professional advancement, educational achievement, personal satisfaction, or something else?
As I mentioned earlier, I believe my success in the program was primarily driven by my inherent curiosity and genuine interest in the subject. This passion for learning kept me engaged and motivated throughout my studies. Additionally, my perseverance and determination to see things through to the end played a significant role. These qualities, combined with my dedication to achieving my goals, were key factors in my success.

Is there a particular course that enhanced your experience in the Supply Chain Management program? Please explain.
I can’t single out one particular course as the best because all the courses in the program were valuable and interesting in their own ways. The difference often lies in how the course is explained and who teaches it. I can highlight a few professors who left a lasting impression on me with their ambition to provide quality education. Professors Canan Gunes Corlu, John Maleyeff, William McGue, Mark Carroll, and Patrick Courtney were particularly memorable for their dedication and passion for teaching—as were others. Their commitment significantly enhanced my learning experience and made the program truly enriching.

What’s next for you? Would you say that your program helped prepare you for the next phase of your life?
Boston University has undoubtedly been a springboard for me to reach a new level in my life. The education I received, along with the experience of living in one of America’s historic cities, has profoundly influenced my perspective. People with such education are always in demand worldwide. After earning my degree, I was offered a top management position at a leading shipping company not only in Kazakhstan but also at Kazmortransflot—Kazakhstan’s main maritime company. This program has thoroughly prepared me for this exciting next phase of my career.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
I was born into an ordinary working-class family in the small town of Aktau in Kazakhstan, on the shores of the Caspian Sea. The sight of ships waiting in line at the port to load their next cargo sparked my interest in logistics from a young age. Following my graduation from my first university in 2006, I began working at Kazmortransflot, where I advanced from an entry-level position to a manager.

The development of logistics in Kazakhstan is a crucial issue as the geopolitical situation in the world calls for diversification of routes between Europe, Asia, and the rest of the world. The revival of the Great Silk Road lies in the hands of modern specialists who possess contemporary knowledge. Such gradual success would not have been possible without the experience and knowledge I have gained throughout my life.

In 2022, I was fortunate enough to be admitted to Boston University, specializing in supply chain management, and in January 2024, I obtained my master’s degree. This was in addition to my three degrees obtained in Kazakhstan, in management, marketing, and the oil and gas business. My studies at Boston University allowed me to gain a lot of modern knowledge, meet experienced professors, and make friends, while serving as a springboard for my career growth.

At the time of my admission to Boston University, I was 38 years old. I had a good job. It was a difficult decision to leave my elderly parents behind, take my family with three daughters to a distant country, leave my job, and balance studying with working. However, two years later, I realize that it was the right decision to come to Boston with my family and study at one of the most prestigious universities. Boston not only awarded me a degree with honors but also blessed me with a fourth child—a long-awaited son, who was recently born in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Fate has thus further tied me to this beautiful country. In a few years, when I recount the wonderful years of my life and achievements at Boston University, I think it will serve as great motivation for my children to come and study here, just like their father did.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my parents, my family, and all my loved ones for their unwavering support during my studies. Your encouragement and belief in me provided the strength and motivation I needed to pursue my dreams and achieve my goals. To my parents, thank you for instilling in me the values of hard work and perseverance. To my wonderful wife and children, thank you for your patience, understanding, and love throughout this journey. To all my relatives and friends, your support has been invaluable, and I am truly grateful for each and every one of you. This achievement is as much yours as it is mine. Thank you.

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