Spring is in full swing. International Woman's Day was celebrated on March 8th. On this occasion AFAM decided to interview a few bright Gadz'Arts women engineers living and working in the US to celebrate woman's achievement and success!  Today please meet Basma Aiouche, CL 214 and MIT alumna. 

1. Tell us about your career path and area of expertise today. How did it come about?

I am currently working as a Mechanical Engineer at Schlumberger in the Houston area. This is my first job, fresh out of school: I was offered the opportunity and it sounded like a great experience, so I decided to seize it! Working in the oil industry may seem out-dated or not as tempting as booming new industries, but I wanted to know more about it as it is a rising industry in my home country.

2. What do you do every day at work? How does being a Gadz’Arts help you in your everyday tasks and team management?

I am part of a team that sustains equipment and tools running in the field. This could go from improving the reliability of a commercialized tool to reduce NPT (Non Productive Time) on high running costs well-sites to improving a part’s design to enhance manufacturability and cut costs. Having a multidisciplinary background is always of help and being a Gadz’Arts benefits for sure!

3. How did you come to the US- why and when? How is your work life different than in France?

I came to the US in 2016 to pursue a Master’s degree at MIT. If you’d asked me a couple of years back, I’d have never thought that I’d cross the Atlantic Ocean for school or work but I’m here, grasping opportunities as they come along!

4. What is the best advice someone ever gave you? Why?

Sky’s the limit! That’s my motto since I was a little girl. If you work hard enough you can reach and achieve whatever you wish. You should strongly believe in yourself and face all obstacles standing on your way. I’m thankful to my parents who have been giving this advice for ever.

5. What is one favorite way to spend your free time (hobbies, weekend activities)?

I enjoy spending some time with my friends on weekends. Whenever I get a chance, I drag them for some crazy roller-coasters at Six Flags in San Antonio!

Thank you, Basma, for sharing your experience and thoughts on life in the USA for Gadz'Arts! Happy spring to you and to all the women in our community!