Abdul Rafeh Rahat

Process Engineer - High level experience in Mining & Metalurgy and Oil & Gas

About

Multidisciplinary process engineer with hands-on experience in nickel/cobalt hydrometallurgy, iron ore pyrometallurgy, and oil refining. Rafeh has contributed to key projects at Vale Base Metals, where he managed process safety dashboards, tracked Operational Process Safety Events (OPSE), led a site-wide Shelter-in-Place initiviate, and performed field verifications under Critical Risk Management protocols. He played a key role in improving Long Harbour's site visual management and accountability during emergency scenarios and drafted technical documents including Management of Change (MOC) reports. At Braya Renewable Fuels, he executed engineering calculations involving heat transfer, system hydraulics, and mass and energy balances. His expertise also includes interpreting and redlining P&IDs and PFDs. Visionary and determined, Rafeh is passionate about solving complex engineering problems and contributing to sustainable, impact engineering solutions through cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Bachelor of Process Engineering (Co-op) - Memorial University of Newfoundland
Class of 2024 (2019 - 2024) - St. John's, NL
Bachelor of Chemical Engineering - Kansas State University
(2015 - 2017) - Manhattan, KS

About

Multidisciplinary Process Engineer with hands-on experience in nickel/cobalt hydrometallurgy, iron ore pyrometallurgy, and oil refining. Rafeh has contributed to key projects at Vale Base Metals, where he worked at a state-of-the-art hydrometallurgical facility producing low-carbon nickel. He managed process safety dashboards, tracked Operational Process Safety Events (OPSE), led a site-wide Shelter-in-Place initiative, and performed field verifications under Critical Risk Management protocols. He played a key role in enhancing Long Harbour’s site visual management and accountability during emergency scenarios, and drafted technical documentation including Management of Change (MOC) reports.

At Braya Renewable Fuels, he executed engineering calculations involving heat transfer, system hydraulics, and mass and energy balances. His expertise also includes interpreting and redlining P&IDs and PFDs.

Rafeh maintains active professional memberships with AIChE, IChemE, CIM, and SPE, demonstrating his commitment to continuous professional development, technical excellence, and cross-disciplinary engagement within the global engineering community.

Visionary and determined, Rafeh is passionate about solving complex engineering challenges and driving sustainable, impactful solutions through cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Education

2018 - 2024

St. John's, NL, Canada

Bachelor of Process Engineering (Co-op)

(Class of 2024)
Memorial University of Newfoundland

2016 - 2018

Manhattan, KS, USA

Bachelor of chemical engineering

(Completed 42 credit hours)
Kansas State University

Experience

Braya Renewable Fuels
Come by Chance Refinery, NL, Canada
Technical Services Engineering Student
Jan 2024 - May 2024
  • Maintained PSM records to support operational safety compliance
  • Resolved technical issues by identifying root causes and proposing solutions
  • Conducted engineering calculations for thermal systems and fluid flow
  • Reviewed and updated P&IDs to align with process modifications
Vale Base Metals
Long Harbour, NL, Canada
Process Safety Engineering Intern
Jan 2023 - Aug 2023
  • Drafted documentation to integrate HVAC systems and implement alert protocols
  • Automated safety metrics using VBA to improve site accountability
  • Supported Shelter-In-Place planning through P&ID analysis and communication
  • Assisted in investigations, PHAs, and risk assessments to improve safety
Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship
Memorial University, St. John's, NL, Canada
Entrepreneurial Work Term Student
Sept 2022 - Dec 2022
  • Built a carbon reporting tool for small businesses
  • Collaborated with mentors to align with sustainability goals
  • Researched market needs to inform product design
  • Gained exposure to start-up and climate tech ecosystems
Hibernia Enhanced Oil Recovery Laboratory
Memorial University, St. John's, NL, Canada
Lab Operations Engineering Student
Jan 2022 - May 2022
  • Developed ML models and analyzed 3D data for drilling optimization
  • Processed datasets and created image-based reports in Excel
  • Supported lab operations, inventory, and equipment procurement
  • Conducted statistical analysis to enhance image processing accuracy
F&P Mfg. Inc.
New Tecumseth, ON, Canada
Production Associate
Sept 2019 - Dec 2019
  • Tested automotive parts for quality and safety assurance
  • Maintained and monitored robotic systems and process flow
  • Evaluated manufacturing processes using automated tools
  • Documented inspection results and process improvements for quality assurance
ITAC, Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS, USA
IT Help Desk Consultant
Feb 2016 - March 2018
  • Delivered IT support and resolved hardware, software, and network issues
  • Maintained ~100 Mac workstations and assisted with repairs and equipment orders
  • Trained new consultants and supported enterprise system monitoring
  • Communicated technical solutions clearly across in-person and remote channels

Projects

Hydrometallurgical Gold Mining Plant Design
Designed a hydrometallurgical gold mining plant in Central Newfoundland, integrating process design, economic analysis, and simulation. Conducted market research and financial modeling to assess project feasibility, including CAPEX, OPEX, NPV, and IRR. Developed detailed PFDs and P&IDs using Bluebeam Revu . Simulated key operations- leaching, separation, and electrowinning using HSC Chemistry, and performed thermodynamic and utility calculations in Aspen HYSYS.
Skills Gained: Process Simulation, Equipment Design, Economic Evaluation, Technical Documentation
Shelter-In-Place (SIP) During Toxic Gas Release
Reviewed, assessed, and optimized all aspects of Shelter-In-Place (SIP) technical documentation, including Management of Change (MOC) procedures and proposed process control sequences. Investigated the site-wide alert system (Everbridge) and implemented improvements in visual management and accountability in the event of a hazardous release. The initiative supported a multi-million-dollar safety enhancement project, contributing to risk mitigation across a facility valued at over $4 billion. Also participated in Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) and root cause analysis to strengthen the site's overall emergency preparedness and response strategy.
Courses Completed During This Project: Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Training, Risk Management, Sulfuric Acid Training
Hacking Health Hackathon
Contributed to the development of an obstacle avoidance device for wheelchairs, focusing on safety and accessibility. Collaborated on system design using mountable sensors and CAD modeling, refining prototypes based on real-world feedback. Applied Python and C++ for embedded programming to optimize sensor performance, and used JavaScript to develop a user-friendly interface. Gained experience in prototyping, client-driven design, and adaptive problem-solving.
Skills Gained: Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Embedded Programming (Python), JavaScript, C++

Skills

A comprehensive overview of expertise and capabilities:
Technical Expertise
Process Design & Simulation
85%
Unit Operations & Equipment Design
80%
Mathematical Modelling
70%
Safety & Compliance
100%
Technical Documentation
100%
Data Analysis
80%
Laboratory Skills
100%
Web Development
50%
Tools & Technologies
Python
90%
MATLAB
80%
SolidWorks
100%
Microsoft Office (+Excel VBA)
100%
Power BI
70%
Aspen HYSYS
90%
SAP ERP
70%
Bluebeam
65%
Project Management
Cross-discipline Management
100%
Lean Management
100%
Agile Methodologies
90%
Languages
English
C1 Proficiency
Urdu
Native
Arabic
I2 Proficiency
French
A1 Proficiency

Certifications

Certified SolidWorks Associate - Mechanical Design

(Credential Link)

Certified Associate in Project Management - PMI

(Credential Link)

Tech Stewardship Practice Program

(Credential Link)

Tech Stewardship for the Energy Transition Program

(Credential Link)

Generative AI for Project Managers

Lean Six Sigma - White Belt

Machine Learning - Stanford University

(Credential Link)

Data Analyst Professional Certificate - IBM

Standard First Aid/CPR A/AED

More About Me

Here are some highlights of my experiences and interests beyond my professional work:

With a comprehensive professional background spanning engineering, entrepreneurship, leadership, and diverse roles, I have consistently contributed positively to various organizations through full-time and part-time positions, volunteer engagements, and mentorship opportunities. Currently, as a Teaching Fellow at How to Change the World, I guide multidisciplinary student teams using systems thinking, design methodologies, and targeted mentorship to create sustainable, innovative, and impactful engineering solutions. My recent completion of an intensive Software Engineering Diploma at BrainStation has strengthened my skills in full-stack development, agile methodologies, and collaborative problem-solving.

Driven by a strong growth mindset and a commitment to continuous learning, I actively embrace new challenges and adapt quickly to evolving technical environments, fostering growth in both my professional and personal life. Additionally, I maintain a strong safety mindset, consistently incorporating safety principles into all aspects of my work and daily activities. I remain dedicated to bringing analytical rigor, technical expertise, strategic leadership, and a results-focused approach to every professional endeavor.

Committed to continuous professional growth, I have also pursued specialized training courses, including:
  • Risk Management at Vale
  • Mines for Minds at Vale
  • Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Safety
  • Respiratory Protection Training
  • Sulfuric Acid Safety
  • Standard First Aid/CPR A/AED

These courses have enriched my skillset, allowing me to effectively navigate complex environments and enhance my contributions to multidisciplinary teams, ultimately driving innovation, improving collaboration, and delivering impactful solutions.

References available upon request.

  • American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AlChE)
  • Institute of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)
  • Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM)
  • Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE)
Teaching Fellow at How to Change the World (2025-Present)
  • Facilitating workshops and guided student teams in developing solutions to real-world sustainability challenges using systems and design thinking frameworks

  • Mentoring participants, provided feedback on project proposals, and ensured alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  • Supporting program delivery by managing session logistics and fostering an engaging, inclusive learning environment

  • Contributing to post-program evaluations by providing insights to enhance future iterations of the program
Test Day Supervisor/Invigilator at IDP (2022-Present)
  • Supervising test day operations to ensure compliance with IELTS exam protocols

  • Monitoring candidates during exams and maintained a secure testing environment

  • Verifying candidate identification and enforced strict adherence to examination guidelines
Tutor at GoStudent (2022-2023)
  • Delivered 298 personalized sessions in Math, Science, and Programming to improve student performance
  • Adapted teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles, including students with special needs
  • Provided continuous feedback and support, fostering academic growth and confidence
Sandwich Artist and Supervisor at Subway (2021-2023)
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensured customer satisfaction, and managed staff schedules

  • Maintained quality control and compliance with health and safety standards
Mobile Advisor at Best Buy (2020-2021)
  • Delivered personalized customer consultations focused on mobile devices, plans, and accessories, consistently exceeding sales goals through effective product recommendations and tailored solutions
  • Adapted communication strategies to effectively assist diverse customers, including those with unique preferences and accessibility requirements
  • Provided ongoing guidance and support, empowering customers with product knowledge, enhancing satisfaction, and building trust in their purchasing decisions
Cashier Supervisor at Shoppers Drug Mart (2019-2021)
  • Supervised retail operations, assisted with inventory management, and optimized customer service

  • Trained and guided team members to maintain store standards and efficiency
International Coordinator and Digital Strategist at GlobalNL (2018–2019)
  • Coordinated international outreach to grow the GlobalNL network

  • Developed digital strategies to enhance member engagement

  • Managed social media accounts

  • Facilitated connections between professionals, alumni, and talent

Demonstrated leadership, technical expertise, and community impact through diverse volunteer roles in engineering, entrepreneurship, and project management.

Director of Outreach (2022) at Project Management Institute (PMI), Newfoundland Chapter
  • Strengthened community engagement by promoting PMI initiatives and events

  • Expanded outreach efforts to attract diverse volunteers and project managers

  • Fostered partnerships to increase chapter visibility and participation
Engineering Team Member (2019-2022) at Paradigm Hyperloop
  • Contributed to the design and prototyping of advanced hyperloop technologies

  • Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to refine system components

  • Supported testing and validation to enhance performance and safety
Student Ambassador (2024) at Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship (MCE)
  • Promoted MCE programs and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs on campus

  • Engaged with students to encourage participation in innovation-driven initiatives

  • Represented MCE at networking events and startup competitions
  • Self Leader Award - Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship




  • Ignite Fund ($2,000) - Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship
  • Be an Engineer Gwyn Morgan Scholarship ($5,000)
  • 2nd Place in Hacking Health Hackathon ($2,000)
  • People’s Choice Award - How to Change the World
  • Explored 23 countries and experienced diverse cultures

  • Operated UAVs with practical drone piloting experience

  • Photography and Videography

  • Committed to strength and endurance training

  • Passionate about cricket, football, tennis, and formula 1

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