From an early age, I was fascinated by aviation and motivated to learn more about the aerospace and defence industry, which ultimately led me to BAE Systems - a global pioneer known for its exceptional development and training opportunities. The variety of work, platforms and customers continues to motivate me every day.
I joined BAE Systems in 2014 as a Co-op trainee while studying Mechanical Engineering at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. Working alongside highly skilled engineers on training aircraft such as the Pilatus PC-9 and Cirrus SR22 at King Faisal Air Academy confirmed this was where I wanted to build my career.
After graduating, I joined the Engineering Graduate Scheme, rotating across Continuing Airworthiness, Engineering Support and Acceptance teams. During this time, I supported the introduction of the first Pilatus PC-21 and Hawk Mk-165 to our customer and spent six months at Warton contributing to the manufacture of the 1,000th Hawk aircraft before it was shipped to Saudi Arabia for in-kingdom final assembly.
Working across different aircraft, countries and teams has shaped who I am as an engineer. Every role has encouraged me to grow, learn and think globally. It’s a journey I’m proud to be part of.AdelEngineering Manager, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
I progressed into a Systems Engineer role within the Officers & Aircrew Training Programme and was promoted to Senior Systems Engineer, managing the engineering lifecycle and supporting STEM initiatives. I later completed a UK secondment as Assistant Product Technical Manager in the Hawk Chief Engineer’s Office, contributing to the qualification and certification of the Saudi Hawk’s conversion into an aerobatic display aircraft.
Today, after more than 10 years working across multiple platforms and locations across Saudi Arabia and the UK, I am an Engineering Manager for the Typhoon Salam Support Solution in Riyadh. Being part of a global organisation has allowed me to experience different cultures, develop new skills and continuously learn. While navigating different tools and systems across the business can be complex, the strength of our global community makes it incredibly rewarding.
One of my most memorable moments was witnessing a historic Strikemaster aircraft land at Warton - an aircraft that once operated in Saudi Arabia. With the support of my team and our public relations colleagues, we recreated a photograph connected to my father’s flying legacy. Experiences like this remind me that special moments happen in great places.
This is my BAE Systems story, find yours by joining today.
Our colleagues share their personal stories on what drives them and why they chose BAE Systems.