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The American University of Iraq-Baghdad (AUIB) and KBR have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to create new opportunities together to develop Iraq’s future engineers, designers and industry leaders.

The new relationship brings together AUIB’s academic expertise and deep connection to Iraq with KBR’s well-established footprint in the country, backed by extensive international energy and infrastructure experience in engineering design, project delivery, technology solutions, and consulting services. Together, the two organizations aim to help build Iraq’s human capital by equipping a new generation of Iraqis with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to contribute to the country’s long-term economic growth and development.

“Iraq’s future depends on its ability to turn talent and resources into lasting prosperity,” said Dr. Bradley Cook, President of AUIB. “Our relationship with KBR brings together education and industry to advance that ambition, preparing Iraqi professionals to lead, strengthening the institutions and industries that drive growth, and building the expertise Iraq needs to shape its own future.”

The agreement outlines key areas of collaboration, including consulting and advisory services for government entities, state-owned enterprises, and private-sector organizations. The agreement applies across disciplines such as business strategy, workforce planning, project advisory, and capacity-building initiatives supporting the energy, infrastructure, utilities, mining, and manufacturing sectors.

AUIB students will benefit from a more industry-connected educational experience through the integration of real-world projects, KBR case studies, and cutting-edge industry tools and simulations. Students will also have opportunities to learn directly from KBR experts through guest lectures, seminars, mentoring, and industry engagement. This will provide valuable hands-on experience before entering the workforce, helping bridge the gap between university learning and professional practice.

“This memorandum paves the way for a very powerful relationship where we can help develop work-ready professionals in Iraq. KBR has more than a century of engineering expertise ready to share, and a long-standing commitment to Iraq’s energy sector” said Euan McCulloch, Vice President Middle East, KBR. “Iraq has an exciting future ahead, and developing long-term prosperity by training the next generation is vital. We are proud to be part of this relationship and look forward to helping develop the engineers of the future.”

Beyond university students, AUIB and KBR envision jointly developing professional training programs for government employees, industry professionals, recent graduates, and school leavers. The goal is to create clear pathways into engineering, design, and technical careers, helping more Iraqis gain the skills needed to thrive in high-demand sectors.

Through this relationship, AUIB and KBR are investing not only in education and professional development, but also in the people who will help design, build, and lead Iraq’s next chapter.