In Wichita, Kansas, the sky echoed with the thunderous roar of a jet engine as an airplane ascended into the clouds. For Dr. Anas Shargawi, this was far from an ordinary scene. It was a vivid reminder of his lifelong fascination with machines and how his passion for engineering had taken flight. “I’ve always been drawn to machines,” he reflects. “As a kid, I wasn’t satisfied with just playing with toys—I had to take them apart and figure out how they worked.”
That curiosity didn’t stop with toys. It extended to anything mechanical he could get his hands on, from his first bicycle to the family lawnmower. “I loved the challenge of understanding how pieces fit together to create something functional,” he recalls. “But fixing things wasn’t enough for me. I wanted to improve them—make them more efficient, more reliable, more useful.”
Early Education and the Birth of a Passion
Anas’s engineering journey began to take shape formally at Lansing Community College, where he enrolled in the Airframe and Power Plant Aviation Maintenance program. This foundational step was more than just academic; it was transformational. “The first time I heard the hum of an airplane engine during a class, I knew I was in the right place,” he says. “That sound was like music to me—it felt like home.”
His studies at Lansing Community College equipped him with the technical expertise to understand aircraft systems and maintenance. However, Anas’s hunger for knowledge pushed him beyond the technical aspects of aviation. He realized that engineering solutions must also align with economic realities and operational goals.
This realization led him to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at King AbdulAziz University in Saudi Arabia. Focusing on operations research and quality management, Anas deepened his understanding of how engineering principles intersect with business objectives. “Engineering is about solving problems, but business taught me how to prioritize those solutions,” he explains. “A great design is only valuable if it works in the real world—financially, operationally, and logistically.”
From Saudi Arabia to Kansas
Eager to expand his horizons, Anas embarked on a new chapter in his academic journey by pursuing advanced degrees in the United States. He earned a Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, specializing in systems simulation—a field that allowed him to design and analyze complex processes. “Systems simulation opened my eyes to the power of data-driven decision-making,” he says. “It’s about predicting outcomes, optimizing resources, and making informed choices.”
Anas’s pursuit of knowledge didn’t stop there. He went on to Wichita State University, where he earned his Ph.D. in Industrial, Systems, and Manufacturing Engineering. His research focused on ergonomics and human factors, bridging the gap between mechanical efficiency and human well-being. “The idea of designing systems that improve both efficiency and safety fascinated me,” he says. “I wanted to create solutions that enhanced processes and protected and empowered the people using them.”
A Global Perspective
Anas’s international academic and professional experiences have given him a unique perspective on engineering and innovation. Having studied in Saudi Arabia and the United States, he has developed an approach combining precision engineering with a holistic view of organizational needs.
His time at Wichita State University was particularly impactful, as it exposed him to cutting-edge research and practical applications in manufacturing and aerospace. “Being in Kansas, surrounded by the aviation industry, was incredibly inspiring,” he says. “It was the perfect environment to merge my love for aviation with my passion for innovation.”
The Intersection of Passion and Purpose
Today, Anas’s work reflects his multifaceted expertise. His background in aviation, industrial engineering, and business allows him to tackle challenges from multiple angles. “Whether it’s designing a manufacturing process or optimizing an aerospace system, my goal is always to create something that’s better than before,” he explains. “Better for the machine, better for the system, and better for the people involved.”
Looking back on his journey, Anas credits his success to his relentless curiosity and a willingness to embrace new opportunities. “Every step of the way, I’ve learned something new—whether it was taking apart a bicycle as a child or conducting simulations for complex systems as a researcher,” he says. “It’s that drive to understand, improve, and innovate that keeps me going.”
Advice for Aspiring Engineers
For those inspired by his story, Anas has some advice: “Never stop asking questions. The moment you stop being curious is the moment you stop growing,” he says. “And don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. That’s where the real learning happens.”
Anas also emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. “Engineering isn’t just about machines or systems—it’s about people and their needs,” he explains. “The more perspectives you can bring to a problem, the better your solution will be.”
A Journey of Innovation and Leadership
Anas Shargawi’s career reflects a seamless blend of technical expertise, innovation, and leadership. Over more than a decade at Saudia Aerospace Engineering Industries (SAEI), he managed maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations for large aircraft fleets—a role that demanded precision, organization, and exceptional teamwork. “Overseeing maintenance for such massive fleets was both a challenge and an opportunity,” Anas recalls. “It taught me that success in this field requires not just technical skill but also clear communication and trust among team members.”
This experience laid the foundation for his future achievements. At Textron Aviation, Anas contributed to defense projects as part of the quality engineering team. His work ensured compliance with stringent industry standards, emphasizing excellence in every detail. “When you’re dealing with defense projects, there’s no room for error,” he explains. “It’s about creating systems that perform flawlessly under pressure.”
Later, at Spirit AeroSystems, Anas turned his attention to the intersection of technology and manufacturing, playing a pivotal role in implementing digital transformation strategies. From automating processes to integrating advanced analytics, his efforts revolutionized production. “It’s rewarding to see technology streamline operations,” he says. “We reduced waste, enhanced safety, and made our processes more efficient. The results weren’t just numbers—they were tangible improvements felt across the organization.”
These milestones reflect Anas’s ability to adapt to evolving challenges while maintaining a forward-thinking approach to engineering and leadership.
Research and Innovation: Addressing Real-World Challenges
Anas’s impact extends beyond his professional roles through his contributions to applied research in areas like material science and process efficiency. His work often focuses on practical solutions to complex problems. “Research is about asking the hard questions,” Anas explains. “How can we make materials safer? How can processes be more efficient? And how do we ensure the tools we use are accurate and reliable?”
One of his most notable achievements is his work with D3O® materials, a high-performance material used in protective gear. By optimizing its energy absorption capabilities, Anas has contributed to safer equipment for workers and athletes. “Knowing my research can improve someone’s safety or comfort keeps me motivated,” he shares. “It’s a reminder that even the smallest innovation can have a ripple effect.”
Anas has also explored efficiency in maintenance processes, developing methods to reduce downtime in aerospace engineering. His research into wearable technology reliability has similarly addressed challenges in tracking physical performance and monitoring safety in industrial settings. “Research isn’t just theoretical,” he emphasizes. “It’s about finding actionable solutions that can make a difference in everyday life.”
Certifications and Skills: A Commitment to Lifelong Learning
Anas’s professional toolkit reflects a deep commitment to growth and versatility. Alongside earning an FAA Airframe and Powerplant license, he has pursued certifications in public health, digital transformation, and emotional intelligence. This multidisciplinary approach allows him to bridge the gap between technical expertise and interpersonal skills.
“Engineering isn’t just about machines—it’s about people,” Anas says. “You can build the most advanced systems in the world, but if you can’t communicate effectively with your team or stakeholders, those systems won’t reach their full potential.”
His training in emotional intelligence has proven particularly valuable in leadership roles, helping him navigate high-pressure situations and foster collaboration across diverse teams. “Understanding emotions and communication is as critical as technical expertise,” he notes. “It’s what turns a group of individuals into a cohesive, high-performing team.”
A Relatable Journey: Resilience and Curiosity
Anas’s path hasn’t been without its challenges. From adapting to new environments to overcoming self-doubt, he has faced obstacles that shaped his perspective on success. “There were times when I doubted my abilities or felt overwhelmed by the demands of a new role,” he admits. “But those moments taught me resilience and the value of perseverance.”
He emphasizes that setbacks are part of the learning process and encourages aspiring engineers to embrace curiosity and persistence. “Stay curious. Ask questions. And don’t be afraid to fail—it’s part of the process,” Anas advises. “Every problem has a solution, and finding it is what makes this field so exciting.”
Anas also highlights the importance of work-life balance and staying grounded. He credits his early morning routine, which includes reviewing priorities and reflecting on long-term goals, for keeping him focused. “Starting the day with clarity is crucial,” he says. “It allows me to stay aligned with both my professional objectives and personal values.”
Inspiration Through Action
Anas’s story is more than a list of achievements—it’s a testament to the power of passion, persistence, and adaptability. His ability to lead complex projects, innovate in his field, and inspire others through mentorship has made him a respected figure in aerospace engineering.
Whether managing large-scale operations, advancing material science, or guiding the next generation of engineers, Anas Shargawi embodies the values of resilience, curiosity, and continuous improvement. His advice for aspiring professionals is simple yet profound: “Never stop learning, never stop asking questions, and always remember the bigger picture of why you do what you do.”
Conclusion
From the workshop in his childhood home to the forefront of aerospace innovation, Anas Shargawi’s story is one of perseverance and passion. His work continues to shape industries and inspire those around him. “At the end of the day,” he says, “it’s not just about what you build—it’s about how you grow while building it.”
