This is another in our Student Spotlight series, where our students tell their stories in their own words.
My name is Ahmed Eshaq and I am from Sanaa, Yemen. I had the opportunity to successfully earn my Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering and Data Science from The University of Washington. Prior to that I had completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering at King Fahd University, Saudi Arabia.
In my family, education has always been a core value, and I’m proud to say that every member of my family holds a college degree. I wasn’t the first—it’s a tradition we’ve carried forward with great pride. Growing up in an environment that emphasized the importance of learning and personal growth inspired me to pursue higher education with the same passion and dedication. This collective commitment to education has shaped who I am today and motivated me to strive for excellence in my field.
My highest degree is a Masters in Chemical Engineering and I am currently working as a process engineer at Intel. I chose chemical engineering because it sits at the intersection of science, creativity, and problem-solving, and I see it as a powerful way to contribute to Yemen’s future. One area I’m particularly passionate about is the semiconductor industry, which forms the backbone of modern technology. The skills I have gained in chemical engineering— mastering complex chemical processes, materials science, and precision manufacturing—are directly applicable to chip production. By pursuing this path, I aim to bring expertise that could help Yemen tap into the global tech economy. Developing a foothold in semiconductor manufacturing, even on a small scale, could stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and position Yemen as a contributor to one of the most critical industries of the future. This passion ultimately led me to join Intel as a process engineer, where I get to work at the forefront of technology. At Intel, I contribute to developing and optimizing advanced manufacturing processes, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in semiconductor production. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of a team that’s shaping the future of technology, and I’m proud to bring my expertise and unique perspective to a field that has the potential to drive innovation, not just globally, but also in ways that could one day benefit my home country.
I was fortunate to be sponsored by the Hadhramout Foundation due to their commitment to empowering Yemeni students and fostering talent for the betterment of our country. Growing up in Yemen, I worked hard to excel academically, and my dedication to pursuing higher education in a field that could contribute meaningfully to Yemen’s development aligned with the foundation’s mission. The Hadhramout Foundation recognized my potential and supported me in achieving my goals, enabling me to access resources and opportunities that have been instrumental in my journey as a chemical engineer. Their sponsorship is more than financial support; it’s a partnership rooted in a shared vision of advancing education and innovation for Yemen’s future.
Growing up in Yemen, I witnessed the impact of limited access to technology and infrastructure firsthand. One story that shaped my decision to pursue chemical engineering and eventually specialize in semiconductor manufacturing stems from my fascination with electronics during my childhood. I remember when a relative brought a broken radio to our home, and I eagerly tried to take it apart and understand how it worked. Even though I didn’t know much at the time, I was captivated by the intricate circuits and components that made up the device. That curiosity stayed with me as I grew older. Living in a country with limited access to advanced technology, I realized how transformative technology can be for societies. This motivated me to pursue chemical engineering, a field that plays a critical role in industries like chip manufacturing. I saw semiconductor technology as not just an opportunity to innovate but also a potential catalyst for economic growth and technological advancement in places like Yemen. My dream is to one day use my expertise to help bring such advanced industries to Yemen, enabling the country to participate in the global technology economy once it has the stability and resources to do so.
Outside of my formal education, I enjoy exploring hobbies that challenge my creativity and broaden my perspective. I’m particularly interested in activities like coding and programming, which allow me to build and solve problems in innovative ways. I also enjoy reading books on history and technology to understand how past innovations shaped the future. Additionally, I love hiking and spending time outdoors, as it helps me stay grounded and appreciate the natural world. These hobbies not only provide balance to my life but also fuel my curiosity and creativity, which I carry into my professional endeavors.
In 5 to 10 years, I see myself having grown both professionally and personally, with a strong foundation in chemical engineering and semiconductor manufacturing. I envision being deeply involved in research and development, working on innovative technologies that address global challenges such as sustainable energy, resource management, and manufacturing efficiency. Specifically, I hope to be leading projects that contribute to the advancement of semiconductor technology, potentially helping to establish or improve chip manufacturing processes that could benefit emerging markets.I also see myself in a leadership role, collaborating with international teams to push the boundaries of what’s possible in technology. On a broader scale, I hope to be contributing to initiatives that foster education and innovation in Yemen, possibly working with local organizations or governments to help rebuild and strengthen the country’s technological infrastructure. My ultimate goal is to combine my expertise with my passion for making a tangible impact, ensuring that Yemen can one day take part in global technological advancements and create a more sustainable future for its people.
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