2022 Industry Leaders: Akram Khalis, MHT Lighting

Nominee’s Name & Job Title: Akram Khalis, CTO

Nominee’s Company/Affiliation: MHT Lighting

Nominee’s City & State of Employment: Manhattan NYC

What is your management style?

Lead by example and with empathy; for example, if an employee isn’t performing to their potential or is displaying a lack of urgency, it’s better to ask questions than to threaten consequences.

What was the most difficult experience you have encountered as a leader?

COVID forced our tech company to interact with construction projects in a hybrid fashion. It’s a great point of pride to have built a highly productive bridge between global remote teams and on-site teams.

What aspect of your position do you find most challenging?

The needs and wants of engineers and the business are often at odds. Bridging the gap between specialized and executive teams is a challenge, but it’s also what keeps me excited about this career.

What award were you most proud to receive?

Three United States Patents (two additional patents pending).