This note summarises a process of transition from working as a professional engineer to taking an academic position in a university, with further responsibilities for Māori and Pasifika students. Associated with these developments was extending my own research capabilities. This academic journey faced many challenges and at times felt like a baptism by fire. However, the whole transitory process has proved to be fulfilling because I learned so much and was able to engage in work that was interesting, even exciting, and certainly worthwhile because it brought forth some new and useful knowledge. This learning process included developing several skill sets: from thinking, planning and strategising, to coming to grips with new areas and new issues that needed solving. In taking the reader briefly through this journey, it is hoped that the story has some resonance.