Hilton Sharm Waterfalls Resort are pioneers in their country and region by hiring the first female maintenance engineer across Egypt and the Middle East. Aya Saeed talks about her new role in a recent question-and-answer session.
How did you get your start in maintenance?
When I was in college, my professors at Cairo University involved us in actual projects including utilities design and operation. I learned from field visits and project studies in engineering and economics. I worked in facility management and environmental monitoring activities. That’s where I found an opportunity at Hilton Sharm Waterfalls Resort as Maintenance Engineer. I applied for the vacancy and was very excited after I got the job. I received full support from the entire team and General Manager Mr. Emad. I find my new career to be very exciting and promising.
How does it feel to be the first woman maintenance engineer across Egypt and Middle East region?
I feel so proud of the community taking serious steps towards allowing women to approach more facilities and “field work.” I believe women can promote various aspects by working in this field, including things like education, conservation and environmental impact.
What does this responsibility mean for you, and what do you think it means for other women in Egypt?
This responsibility requires integrity because it is an opportunity to “work smart”: it requires wisdom and good monitoring for environmental consequences and energy savings. I think it opens the door to getting more women into this field and thinking openly about approaching several areas of production. It is a new era for females in Egypt and the Middle East area!
If you could help make a difference in the lives of other Team Members, what would you like to do?
I would help with effective and valuable team communication to expand our discussions and activities about environmental awareness, waste reduction and keeping “Mother Earth” safe. I believe that our understanding of nature could change someone’s point of view.
Are there any fun facts you'd like fellow Team Members to know about you?
I have a passion for art, reading and music. I love the art of Da Vinci, Picasso, Salvador Dali, Monet, and more modern artists like Peter Gric, Neil Moore and Tomas Allen. I also enjoy author Milan Kundera’s writing techniques and consider him a close friend. I also like Saramago, Goethe, Dostoevsky, and many more. For music, my beloved Tchaikovsky, Beethoven and Chopin made my life better. I believe that art can gather the whole world together as a single unit.
Team Members like Aya, bring the light and warmth of hospitality to our guests every day. We are committed to cultivating a workplace where Team Members of all backgrounds and abilities can be their very best.
If Aya’s story inspired you, maybe it’ll inspire others. We encourage you to share it with your social media networks, and submit your own Team Member story, here. Want to join the Hilton team? Check out our Hilton Careers website today!