Obieda Ghazal – Expert in AI, Energy, and Smart Mobility

obieda ghazal

I am a technology professional, combining strong technical skills with a keen understanding of business. My background in computer engineering allows me to create innovative products from concept to completion. With experience in hardware/software design, development, and various programming languages and tools, I can turn ideas into reality.

Beside my technical expertise, I hold an Executive MBA from HEC Paris (#1 in Europe), specializing in innovation and entrepreneurship. This blend of skills allows me to apply my technical knowledge in a strategic way, ensuring success in the market.

My experiences working in different countries and my exceptional communication skills have honed my ability to work with diverse groups of people. Driven by curiosity and a passion for improvement, I am committed to using technology and innovation to create a lasting impact on the world.

I am always interested in exploring new opportunities and projects that leverage my technical skills and business acumen. If you have a project or an idea you’d like to discuss or if you simply want to connect and learn more about my experience, don’t hesitate to get in touch on Linkedin.

The Story

1. The Black Dot

Back in the days when I was a young child in a small seaside town, my curiosity had no bounds. The town, nestled along the coast, was a picturesque haven for crows, fishermen, and tourists alike. It was there that I first discovered the magic of invention and the wondrous world of electronics.

In a small room, I spent countless hours disassembling my toys to understand their inner workings. My youthful fingers expertly wielded screwdrivers and pliers, prying apart plastic and metallic components to reveal the secrets that lay beneath.

One summer day, I embarked on my most ambitious project yet: creating my remote-controlled (RC) boat. I took apart a couple of ordinary RC cars and carefully studied their components, noticing a pattern within the web of wires and circuits. Each toy had a hidden Printed Circuit Board (PCB) connecting all components, with a mysterious black dot as the focal point. Driven by curiosity, I asked my science teacher, Mr. Islam, about the black dot, and he revealed it was the “brain” of the toy, a tiny computer controlling its every move.

Inspired, I completed my RC boat, “The Sea Explorer,” and proudly showcased its maiden voyage to my family, friends and neighbors.

2. The Engineer

Blessed with early access to school computers, I was a mere 13-year-old when I wrote my first line of code. I felt an electric thrill as I realized the limitless potential of technology, and it became my dream to harness its power for good.

My relentless pursuit of knowledge led me to Near East University, where I obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering. During my time there, I delved deep into the world of Artificial Intelligence, taking many courses that laid the foundation for my future endeavors. I honed my leadership skills at Benedictine University, preparing for the challenges that lay ahead.

In my professional tenure as a Hardware Engineer and later as an Embedded Software Engineer, I came into contact with a wide variety of technologies that opened a whole new world of possible advances that could be made to make our lives better.

The software I was involved in designing was purposed for allowing better communication between computer software and hardware. My responsibilities involved technical aspects as well as project management, and I was able to work on delivering excellent products in time.

My dedication and expertise in the field did not go unnoticed, as I was ranked #1 nationally and within the top 15% internationally in the Google Hash Code 2016 competition, an achievement that further fueled my passion and drive for excellence.

3. The Entrepreneur

As my career progressed, I began to feel a yearning for something more. The world of business and entrepreneurship beckoned, presenting an opportunity to blend my technical expertise with a newfound passion for innovation. My experiences volunteering in five countries and earning honorary citizenship in Naperville and Lisle, US, had instilled in me a deep sense of community and a desire to make a broader impact.

Seeking to expand my horizons and cultivate a more comprehensive skillset, I pursued an Executive MBA from a top business school in Europe – HEC Paris, focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship. I immersed myself in courses such as Organizational Design, Entrepreneurial Finance, Intellectual Property Law, and Strategic Management of Innovation, eager to translate these learnings into real-world applications.

My unique combination of technical prowess, strong communication skills, and a keen sense of humor allowed me to thrive in this new realm. I became known for my enthusiasm and relentless drive for self-improvement, as well as my unwavering support for others. These qualities, once nurtured by the world of engineering, now found a new home in the dynamic landscape of business and entrepreneurship.

As I embarked on this new chapter, I carried with me the lessons I had learned from my time as a computer engineer and the black dot that had sparked my curiosity. The spirit of the seaside inventor lived on within me, propelling me towards uncharted territories and inspiring me to dream bigger than ever before.

My journey is a testament to the transformative power of curiosity, adaptability, and determination. As I continue to explore the vast possibilities of entrepreneurship, I remain committed to harnessing the power of technology and innovation to create a brighter future for all, proving that even the smallest black dot can change the course of one’s life and impact the world beyond measure.