<p>Carolina Dabbah brings extensive cross-industry experience into her classroom at the NYU SPS <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-project-management.html" target="_self">MS in Project Management</a> program. With a career including roles at Fortune 500 corporations, innovative startups, and her current position as senior business strategy lead at General Motors, Dabbah integrates her industry-leading perspective into her teaching, helping students understand that no two projects—or workplaces—are alike.</p>

<p>Having navigated fields ranging from UX research and web development to gaming, Dabbah views project management as inherently collaborative and cross-functional. &quot;These disciplines taught me to speak different 'languages'—whether it's design, engineering, product management, or business strategy,&quot; she explains. &quot;I encourage students to approach project management as a role that bridges teams, rather than just checking tasks off a list.&quot;</p>

<p>Her ongoing strategic role at General Motors ensures the classroom content remains timely and relevant. &quot;I'm constantly exposed to strategic decision-making and cross-functional challenges,&quot; Dabbah says. &quot;I use live examples to help students connect theory with what’s happening in the real world.&quot;</p> <p>As project management evolves, particularly with AI and automation reshaping industries, Dabbah reminds students of the importance of critical thinking, adaptability, and ethical leadership.</p>

<p>Dabbah’s global perspective significantly influences her teaching. Having worked internationally, she emphasizes cultural intelligence and inclusive leadership. &quot;Cultural nuances impact everything—from decision-making to communication styles,&quot; Dabbah observes. &quot;You can have a perfect project plan, but if you can't connect with stakeholders or build trust within your team, your project risks failure.&quot;</p> <p>She consistently highlights the interplay between business strategy and IT, reiterating that successful technology initiatives must solve real problems. &quot;Technology should serve people, not the other way around,&quot; Dabbah insists, taking a page out of Steve Jobs’ book. This customer-centered mindset guides students to think strategically, aligning technological solutions with meaningful business outcomes.</p>

<p>When teaching Agile methodologies, Dabbah focuses on instilling an Agile mindset, going beyond mere frameworks. &quot;We explore why Agile practices work, how they apply beyond tech contexts, and use simulations to bring Agile ceremonies to life,&quot; she explains.</p> <p>For students aspiring to leadership roles in high-pressure environments, Dabbah advises, &quot;Stay curious, communicate intentionally, and listen deeply. Leadership isn't about knowing all the answers—it's about empowering your team and navigating uncertainty with resilience.&quot; In an increasingly digital world, she leans toward building authentic relationships and trust as foundations for successful project outcomes.</p> <p>Dabbah remains forward-looking, spotlighting trends such as AI-driven cloud solutions, sustainable technologies like electric vehicles, and omnichannel customer experiences. &quot;Hybrid work and global collaboration are redefining project dynamics,&quot; she notes. &quot;The future will be about blending human-centered leadership with tech-enabled strategies, which is incredibly exciting.&quot;</p> <p>Ultimately, what Dabbah enjoys most about teaching at NYU SPS is the diverse range of experiences and ambitions students bring into the classroom. &quot;It creates a dynamic learning environment,&quot; she says. &quot;I hope students leave my class not just with knowledge, but with confidence and a clear sense of purpose in their careers.&quot;</p> <p>Learn from top industry professionals like Carolina Dabbah when you pursue an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-project-management.html" target="_self">MS in Project Management</a> at NYU SPS.</p>