Pursuing a PhD in Manufacturing Management: A Personal Journey
- Robert Edinger
- Oct 26, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 24, 2025

As a young man from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), I came to the United States for my university education. I have worked extremely hard to reach a point where I feel confident pursuing a Ph.D. in my field. Now, I have the maturity to know exactly what I want to achieve professionally.
Early Inspirations and Academic Journey
From a young age, I was fascinated by gadgets. I dreamed of designing and creating them. My pragmatic nature drives me to contribute to economic development, particularly in electronics engineering, which is the field where I will soon complete my undergraduate studies. Over time, I began to see the electronics industry as a vital part of broader economic development. This intellectual curiosity led me to earn an MBA from the University of ____, graduating in May 2014.
Completing my undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology allowed me to immerse myself fully in the study of electronic gadgets. My MBA in Operations Management reflects my evolving interests. My passion for electronics has gradually shifted toward the business side, particularly in manufacturing.
Pride in Heritage and Future Aspirations
I take great pride in my Arab heritage and treasure my roots in the UAE. I find the business aspect of Arab-American relations particularly appealing. One day, I hope to return to the UAE to conduct research on quality control practices, focusing on implementing Total Quality Management (TQM) as a tool for enhancing work culture and organizational efficiency.

I am applying to your PhD program in Manufacturing Management at ____ because it offers the best opportunity for me to gain extensive exposure to the electronics industry. I seek in-depth knowledge of manufacturing engineering functions and the challenges we face, particularly regarding energy.
Commitment to Quality in Production
My goal is to enhance production quality in the UAE. I aim to cultivate expertise in quantitative and model-building methods of inquiry. I desire a broad, interdisciplinary understanding of the complex relationships between manufacturing and engineering functions and other parts of the enterprise. I look forward to rigorous doctoral training in empirical research methods and both traditional and emerging standards of excellence in manufacturing education.
In the coming years, I aspire to teach in the UAE, focusing on the importance of quality standards and practices. I want to improve and safeguard quality practices in my home country. Having completed both my degrees at the University of ____, I feel comfortable continuing my studies here for my terminal degree. I am fortunate to have full funding for up to five years of study from the UAE.

A Vision for the Future
My dream is to lead a long and productive life as an educator in global markets and production. My education and experience in operations and technical environments have instilled confidence in my ability to excel in my field. I have worked diligently to refine my interpersonal and communication skills. I am determined to enhance my analytical skills to develop creative and effective approaches to novel situations.
I am an effective team leader, accustomed to collaborating with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. I am results-oriented in all my endeavors. Patience and flexibility define my working style. I am attuned to the global nature of our business environment and the crucial role of innovative technology in launching and streamlining businesses worldwide. My travels have made me a cosmopolitan individual, allowing me to study various quality practices across different societies. I have learned the most during my eight years in the U.S.
Conclusion
I look forward to dedicating myself fully to your program. Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the field of manufacturing management and to further my personal and professional growth.
My aspiration is to make a meaningful impact in the world of manufacturing and education, bridging my experiences in the UAE and the United States. I am eager to embark on this journey and to share my knowledge with future generations.
PHD Manufacturing Management Personal Purpose






This statement is a strong and persuasive account of academic achievement, professional focus, and personal vision. It demonstrates a clear trajectory from childhood curiosity about electronics to advanced academic preparation in engineering and business, culminating in a well-defined goal of pursuing a Ph.D. in Manufacturing Management. The applicant’s ability to connect personal heritage, global perspective, and professional aspirations adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.
The draft is particularly compelling in its emphasis on quality control and total quality management (TQM) as tools for improving organizational efficiency, showing both technical insight and a commitment to practical impact. The combination of an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology and an MBA in Operations Management highlights interdisciplinary strength and readiness for doctoral-level…