From a childhood fascination with computers to becoming a software and AI engineer at a leading consultancy, Huda's journey reflects passion, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning.
Huda’s interest in technology began at the tender age of ten when she received her first computer.
- This sparked a passion that led me to ask my parents for additional courses to deepen my understanding of computers and their applications, she recalls.
Her enthusiasm for mathematics and new technologies during her schooling in Syria naturally steered her towards a degree in computer science.
- Programming and problem-solving are something I love, and it's essential to do what you love every day, says Huda.
She started her studies in Cairo, Egypt, but a family move to Norway necessitated a fresh start. Huda enrolled in a five-year integrated master's program in computer science at NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology), specializing in Artificial Intelligence.
- It was a challenge, but it also shaped who I am today, she reflects.
Navigating new cultures, languages and academic challenges
- Achieving proficiency in Norwegian and English while adapting to a new culture was tough, Huda admits.
However, her resolve saw her learning Norwegian and working as an Arabic-Norwegian translator within 1.5 years, allowing her to pass the required language tests and continue her studies.
- I was fortunate to have my family’s support; they encouraged me to achieve my dreams, even when the journey seemed long, she adds.
Building experience through internships, research and industry roles
Huda’s career path is a testament to her commitment to technology and continuous improvement. Her first taste of the professional world came with an internship at Microchip in Trondheim, which provided insights into the Norwegian work environment.<7p>
- Later, I worked as a teaching assistant at NTNU while furthering my studies, she shares.
In her third year, Huda secured a summer job with Ocean Space Acoustics as a software engineer and continued to work with them part-time. Her fifth and final year brought an exciting opportunity: a part-time internship at Microsoft as a cloud solution architect. Simultaneously, she collaborated with Telenor on her master’s project, leveraging AI to enhance mobile network performance. Today, Huda thrives as a software and AI engineer at Tieto, a role she finds immensely fulfilling.
Thriving as a Software and AI Engineer - and aiming even higher
As a software and AI engineer solution consultant at Tieto, Huda’s days are filled with the tasks she loves.
- The most important part of my job is solving complex problems, creating value for our customers, sharing knowledge, and continuously learning, she explains.
Tieto’s environment, which fosters continuous growth and development, is an ideal fit for her aspirations. Huda’s biggest learning at Tieto has been the enhancement of her soft skills.
- Leading seminars and presentations have significantly improved my public speaking and customer communication abilities, she notes.
Looking ahead, she aims to further develop her AI expertise, take on leadership roles, and inspire others while promoting a culture of learning and innovation.
Advocating for gender balance and inclusive tech environments
Huda believes that improving gender balance in tech starts early.
- We should encourage young girls to pursue studies and careers in technology by engaging with secondary school students and highlighting the future potential of AI, she suggests.
She also emphasizes the importance of women leveraging their problem-solving and emotional skills to make impactful contributions. Men, on the other hand, can support by mentoring and creating inclusive environments that challenge stereotypes. Huda calls for companies to balance gender representation, support equal opportunities, and actively advocate for gender diversity.
Personal reflections and advice for women entering tech
Despite working in male-dominated teams, Huda hasn’t faced significant barriers due to her gender, but she recognizes the different dynamics in forming friendships.
- Studying and working in a new culture and language added challenges, requiring extra effort to seize opportunities, she reflects.
Huda’s advice to women and girls aspiring to enter tech is to take the leap.
- Working in tech is exciting and satisfying, and it improves critical thinking skills useful in everyday life, she says.
Addressing the myth that women are less capable or interested in tech, Huda highlights women's consistent contributions and passion for technology.
