International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) is celebrated annually on June 23. It is a worldwide celebration of women’s achievements in engineering. The day is an important opportunity to promote women in engineering and demonstrate the amazing career paths open to them.
Engineering is transformative and changes our world by improving safety, sustainability, and daily innovation. To celebrate International Women in Engineering Day, we spoke to Adisa Hadzic, a Research and Development Engineer at Numat. Adisa is making a significant impact by assisting Numat in enhancing industrial efficiency through innovative chemistry. Adisa talks about her inspiring journey into engineering, her key experiences and challenges, and gives some tips for women and girls thinking about an engineering career.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your role at Numat
Adisa Hadzic: I am a chemical engineer with a research and development (R&D) and product development background. At Numat, I support process development and optimization within our development pipeline. My work focuses on advancing products from conception through commercialization, collaborating with manufacturing, commercial, research, and engineering teams to bring impactful solutions to life.
I am originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina and migrated to the United States after the war in my country. My journey into engineering was anything but conventional. I returned to school to pursue my education while raising my son as a single mom and working as a server. The opportunity to be a student again and experience an environment of learning and critical thinking was incredibly rewarding and fulfilling on a personal level.
What sparked your passion and ignited your journey towards a career in engineering?
Adisa Hadzic: I have always been passionate about environmental issues and the socioeconomic significance of science and engineering. My love for chemistry began in high school, and I was captivated by the creativity and practical applications that engineering offers. I realized that to make my voice heard, I needed to continue learning and educating myself. For women, knowledge and education provide critical forms of safety and a sense of autonomy.
What advice would you share with others on their professional journey?
Adisa Hadzic: Do not compare yourself to others; each person’s journey is unique. Be patient with yourself, keep learning, and do your best with the knowledge and resources available to you.
How has your experience at Numat impacted your personal growth and motivation? What aspects of your current role are most significant to you?
Adisa Hadzic: As soon as I visited Numat’s website and read about MOF technology, I knew I was intrigued and wanted to be part of this team! I was initially drawn to the R&D Engineer role with an emphasis on technology transfer to manufacturing, which was something I wanted to do. From the first interview to now, I realized joining this team was one of the best things I could have done for myself. My motivation comes from my desire to learn, positively impact the world around me, and my confidence in our talented and dedicated team. As a team, we can overcome anything in front of us.
On International Women in Engineering Day, we recognize the achievements of women engineers. Their tenacity and diversity will help shape the future we want. Remember that Adisa’s story shows that we have much to accomplish if we live with purpose and commitment, pursue our passions, and are willing to embrace possibilities and opportunities. Cheers to all the amazing women in engineering and the incredible work they are doing in our world.