As part of the Talpods-Jusoor Tech Talent Pipeline initiative, we highlight engineers who turn challenges into opportunities.

Talpods: Can you tell us a bit about your background and what initially sparked your interest in engineering?

Ali: I hold a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology with distinction from the Lebanese International University. My journey with technology started at an early age when I received my first computer. I spent countless hours exploring it, which sparked my deep interest in computers. My love for mathematics further fueled this passion, especially when I realized its crucial role in computer science. This solidified my decision to pursue this field without hesitation. During my time at university, my high grades in programming, databases, and data structures only strengthened my determination. Engineering became not just a career path, but a core part of my life and identity.

Talpods: What challenges have you faced in your career so far, and how have you overcome them?

Ali: My career has been a journey of resilience and adaptation. After obtaining my high school diploma, my studies were interrupted for four years due to the war and displacement. It was a challenging time, but I never gave up on my dreams. When I finally got the opportunity to return to my studies, I completed my bachelor’s degree with distinction. Post-graduation, I worked in the humanitarian field, taking a different path. However, I never stopped developing myself alongside my job. I attended numerous courses and worked on projects, particularly in databases and data analysis. Recently, I had the opportunity to join the Talpods Bootcamp, which reignited my passion for software engineering. This experience has been instrumental in my journey back to the field, equipping me with essential skills and real-world experience.

Talpods: How has your experience with Talpods impacted your professional growth?

Ali: Talpods has been a game-changer for me. The bootcamp helped me return to software engineering with renewed vigor. Despite the short training period, I learned a plethora of new technologies and acquired vital skills in software development and design. The hands-on experience of working on a real project was invaluable. We worked as a team, planning, dividing tasks, and delivering a final product just as professional software engineers would. The mentorship I received was particularly impactful, helping me navigate complex concepts and adopt the mindset of a true software engineer.

Talpods: Who or what inspires you in your journey, and what are your future aspirations in the field of engineering?

Ali: The act of working as a software engineer itself is incredibly inspiring to me. I find joy in solving problems, thinking analytically, writing code, and making decisions based on expertise and experience. My immediate goal is to land my dream job in software engineering. The first job is crucial—it will be the foundation for my rapid growth and advancement in this field.

Talpods: What advice would you give to others who are considering joining the bootcamp?

Ali: My advice is to work hard from the very beginning and manage your time effectively. The Talpods Bootcamp is intense, with a limited time frame and a vast amount of information to absorb. Additionally, take full advantage of the mentors’ expertise. Their guidance can save you a lot of time and effort, helping you develop more effectively.

The TalPods-Jusoor Tech Talent Pipeline is an intensive tech apprenticeship program designed to equip Syrian engineers with the skills and experience necessary to excel in the tech industry. Learn more about the program.