Portrait: Hesham Haridy

Angela: Hi Hesham. Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions.

Hesham: Hello Angela. I appreciate you reaching out with your questions.

Angela: Then let's dive in. My first question would be where you live and what you like about that place.

Hesham: Sure, I live in Dornbirn, a nice area in Dornbin. It’s quite different from where I grew up in Alexandria, a much larger city compared to where I live now, haha. One of the things I enjoy most about Dornbirn is the greenery and natural surroundings. On weekends, you can go hiking and do various sports, and with Constance Lake nearby in Bregenz, you can even go rowing. There are plenty of activities to enjoy throughout all seasons.

Angela: Would you describe your hometown as a more crowded space?

Hesham: Well, I would compare it to two places close to my heart. I lived in Alexandria for 24 years, where my parents still reside. However, six years ago, I moved to Trento, Italy, where I spent four and a half years. Trento holds a special place in my heart, much like Dornbirn does now.
 
Angela: Speaking of so many places, how did you start your career? Have you always been an engineer?

Hesham: Not many people know this, but I hold two Engineering degrees. My first degree was a BSc in Electronics and Communications Engineering from Alexandria University, and right after that, I started my master's degree in Italy, focusing on information and communication engineering, which included aspects of communications and computer science. Six months after finishing my master's, and dissertation, I landed my first job as a System Engineer.

The company provided software as a service specialising in indoor localisation systems.  I was a system integrator responsible for the hardware from the vendor and the software the company offers. It was a tiny company with only a few employees and the perfect opportunity for me to learn, grow a lot, and jump the career ladder. Close after I got an offer from Identec Solutions and I said let's give it a try. I got invited to the company and was really welcomed. What was very surprising for me was how many nationalities we have at the company. That's a point that drew me to say yes to the offer.

Angela: When did you start, and what do you do at Identec Solutions?

Hesham: I started in January 2023, working as a Project Engineer in our multiple verticals. At first, I started with our Reefer Runner solution and was introduced to our Hardware and Software, but I've not been on-site during this training.

 
Angela: What was the first on-site project you have been working on here at Identec Solutions?

Hesham: It has been a tyre manufacturer. It was the first time I saw how the tyre factory works, how the rubber goes from chamber to chamber, how our Solution Asset Agent works and a lot of information to process. That was not really my first site, but my first project. My first on-site project is a Terminal Tracker project at an African terminal.
 
Angela: Did you like to learn about all the different solutions, especially Terminal Tracker?

Hesham: Yes, actually, I can tell you something - I mostly complete my learnings about these solutions from on-site visits because it’s hard to explain everything, especially when it comes to connecting the systems. Being on-site has been the best way to learn about troubleshooting and other aspects. It’s been an exciting project, and I’ve gained a lot from it.

Angela: What has been your favourite project so far?

Hesham: That has been a Reefer Runner project. I had the opportunity to see how some parts of the port have been fully automated. I also met interesting people and had a great opportunity to talk to them.

Angela: What do you like most about the job?

Hesham: The challenges that we face, you know, are different every day in PRS. We solve challenges with the developers or the customers, which is exciting about the job - you learn a lot from other people you meet.

Angela: Do you have a guiding principle at work?

Hesham: There are a few key things I focus on. First, if my business trip lasts a week, I aim to complete as much as possible early in the week to stay ahead. Second, it's essential to be clear with the customer from the start, especially when providing details like datasheets, guidelines, FAQs, etc. If things aren’t clear upfront, they may come back with additional requests later, which can take up valuable time.

Lastly, building connections is crucial. Being on-site allows you to engage with a variety of people. For instance, during one of my recent Terminal Tracker projects, I met someone who taught me much about container vessels. These interactions are, in my view, one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.
 
Angela: We have 5 core company values - Leading, Global, Visionary, Leading and Open. Which one is the most significant one for you?

Hesham: I'd say it's responsible. On-site, if I'm travelling alone, I should be responsible for what I'm doing and saying as I'm representing the company. It was challenging at first, but over time, you learn to manage it.

Visionary I'd say as well because I don't want to become stagnant with current technology standards. I make an effort to keep myself updated on the latest technologies for my own personal and professional growth.

Angela: Last question - do you have any hobbies or passions?

Hesham: One of the things when I lived in Alexandria of course was sea activities. Here in Austria, or when I was living in Italy, it's a bit different, like hiking, climbing, and camping, and I’m looking forward to skiing this upcoming winter.
Angela: Have you ever been skiing?

Hesham: No, not yet only ice skating but this winter it'll be the right time I guess.

Angela: Sounds great! You said something about Sea activities - what are those like swimming?

Hesham: Yes, swimming, but especially rowing. I was actually in a rowing team in Alexandria, also in Italy in the university team, and last season, I joined a rowing team here in Bregenz, Austria.

Angela: I hope you can enjoy the next season as well!

Hesham: Yes, there has been a bit less time this season due to Projects, but I'm looking forward to rowing again next season.

Angela: Thank you so much for your time and for letting me and our readers get to know you!

Hesham: Thank you for giving me the opportunity.