Thekra Aldossary

Thekra Aldossary

Job title (at time of interview)Aluminum, RAK, Engineer PDP at Ma´aden

LocationSaudi Arabia

“Adaptability has enabled me to adjust to shifting team dynamics and respond to the evolving needs of clients or projects. It encourages me to continue learning and creativity. This responsiveness not only improves my problem-solving skills but also helps build strong relationships with colleagues and clients, as they see my willingness to collaborate and find solutions together.”

“Stay curious. Explore different fields, take risks, and never hesitate to ask questions. This mindset opens many doors to new opportunities and helps me discover my passions.”

Thekra Aldossary is a Mechanical engineer with a strong foundation in engineering principles and a passion for innovation in the mining industry. She earned her degree in Mechanical Engineering from (Liverpool John Moores University), where she developed a comprehensive understanding of engineering systems and project management.

Currently, she is participating in a professional development program aimed at enhancing her skills and fostering her leadership abilities within the field. Through this program, she has had gained valuable insights into strategic planning, team management, and the latest technological advancements in mining operations.

Throughout her career, she has received several accolades and opportunities for her contributions including:
– Achievement 1: recognizing her exceptional work on supporting other departments.
– Achievement 2: awarded for improved efficiency within her team.

She has also been an active participant in sharing my expertise.

With a commitment to empowering women in engineering and promoting diversity within the industry, she strives to inspire the next generation of female leaders in mining and engineering.

 

October 2024

By Claudia Fernández P.

  • What do you think has been your most important personal attribute and how has it influenced your professional success?

    One of my most important personal attributes is adaptability. This quality has allowed me to navigate changes and challenges effectively, leading to professional success in various situations.

    Adaptability has enabled me to adjust to shifting team dynamics and respond to the evolving needs of clients or projects. It encourages me to continue learning and creativity. This responsiveness not only improves my problem-solving skills but also helps build strong relationships with colleagues and clients, as they see my willingness to collaborate and find solutions together.

    Overall, my adaptability has shaped my journey.

  • What message or advice would you give to young Thekra, who has not yet started her professional life?

    My advice to myself would be to embrace curiosity and resilience.

    Stay curious. Explore different fields, take risks, and never hesitate to ask questions. This mindset opens many doors to new opportunities and helps me discover my passions.

    Second, be resilient. You’re bound to face challenges and setbacks, but each experience is a chance to learn and grow.

    Finally, build relationships based on trust and collaboration. Networking can lead to invaluable opportunities and mentorship that will guide you through your career.

    Remember, every journey is uniquely yours.

  • Your background is as an Engineer. Please tell us how did you came to work in the mining industry?

    Transitioning into the mining industry as an engineer was a combination of passion and opportunity. Initially, my engineering background provided me with a solid foundation. While exploring career paths, I became intrigued by the complexities and challenges of the mining sector.

    The mining industry appealed to me for its dynamic nature and its critical role in supplying essential resources. As I learned more about mining operations, sustainability practices, and technological advancements, my enthusiasm grew.

    Ultimately, I joined a mining company, where I could apply my engineering skills to real-world challenges.

  • What has been the most rewarding professional experience or project of your career? What are you most proud of having achieved in your career so far?

    The most rewarding experience in my career has been leading a project focused on implementing sustainable mining practices. This initiative aimed to reduce the environmental impact of our operations and promote community engagement.

    I collaborated with a diverse team of engineers, and together we developed innovative solutions for optimizing resource use. Seeing the project & its positive effects on the environment and community was incredibly fulfilling.

    What I am most proud of is not just the successful implementation of sustainable practices. This project reinforced my belief in the importance of balancing industry needs with environmental stewardship.

  • What has been your greatest challenge experienced during your career in the mining industry?

    One of the greatest challenges in the mining industry is balancing safety with productivity. Ensuring the safety of workers while meeting production targets can be tough, especially in high-risk environments.

    Another challenge is adapting to regulatory changes and environmental concerns, which require constant updates to practices and technology.

  • Have you benefited from female role models or mentors before you, or from other support structures in the workplace or in your environment such as family and friends?

    Absolutely! As I was the first female engineer in my field, I initially faced numerous challenges. However, I was fortunate to have strong support from various mentors and role models around me. Starting from our company CEO Mr. Bob Wilt & many managers, directors, and colleagues stepped up to guide me and provide encouragement. Their belief in my abilities helped me navigate the difficulties and ultimately thrive in my role. Additionally, my family and friends were invaluable, cheering me on and reminding me of my strengths. With their support, I overcame the early hurdles and have continued to grow in my career.

  • Do you have any advice to young women starting out in their studies or careers in this field? What was most challenging for you when you started working?

    Absolutely! For young women entering the mining industry, I recommend the following:

    Seek Mentorship: Find mentors who can provide guidance, insights, and support as you navigate your career.

    Network: Connect with industry professionals, attend conferences, and join women’s groups in mining. Building relationships can open doors.

    Stay Persistent: The industry can be challenging, and you may face obstacles, but resilience and determination are key to overcoming them.

    Embrace Continuous Learning: Stay updated on new technologies and practices, as continuous learning is vital in a rapidly evolving field.

    When I started, the most challenging aspect was often feeling out of place in a male-dominated environment. It took time to build confidence and find my voice, but perseverance made all the difference.

  • Do you have any hobbies or other interests that you would like to share?

    Certainly! I enjoy a variety of hobbies and interests that help me unwind and stay balanced. Some of my favourites:

    Reading: I love immersing myself in different genres.

    Cooking: I enjoy experimenting with new recipes and cuisines, sharing meals with friends and family.

    Volunteering: Giving back to the community and engaging in meaningful activities is important to me.