Meet Dr. Anas Shargawi, an industrial engineer in Wichita, Kansas, known for his innovative approach and focus on improving how things work. He earned a Ph.D. in Industrial, Systems, and Manufacturing Engineering from Wichita State University and has years of experience in aerospace manufacturing.
At Spirit AeroSystems, Dr. Shargawi has significantly improved operations and prioritized workers’ needs.
His career, which began in Saudi Arabia, has been driven by a passion for learning and improving processes. In this interview, he discusses his insights on success, the traits of a great entrepreneur, and how he stays productive in a fast-paced industry.
Interview with Anas Shargawi, Ph.D.
How do you define success, and how long did it take you to find it?
Success isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. For me, success means making a meaningful impact—whether that’s improving an aerospace manufacturing process or mentoring a colleague. It took years to realize that. Early in my career, I thought success was about titles. Now, I understand it’s about value and influence.
What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
Curiosity and adaptability. Even in engineering, entrepreneurial qualities matter. The best innovators are always asking questions. They’re open to change and learning new things. In aerospace, where technology evolves rapidly, adaptability isn’t optional—it’s essential.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
Working in high-stakes environments is tough. Early on, I had to learn fast and deal with pressure. Moving from Saudi Arabia to the U.S. wasn’t just a cultural shift; it was a professional one, too. I had to prove myself, adapt to new standards, and earn trust in a competitive field. It wasn’t easy, but it built resilience.
What’s one industry trend that excites you?
Digital transformation in manufacturing. Everyone talks about it, but few implement it effectively. The idea of connecting physical processes to digital analytics excites me. It’s not about automation for the sake of automation. It’s about making informed decisions and using data to create smarter, safer production environments.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Be patient. I used to rush, thinking everything needed to happen immediately. It’s okay to take your time and master your craft. Your career is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay curious and never stop learning. That’s what keeps you relevant.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Structured reflection. I always take time to review my week and see what worked or didn’t. Sometimes, productivity is less about doing more and more about doing the right things. That habit keeps me focused.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I step back. Taking a break doesn’t mean you’re slacking off. I like to walk or spend time on a simple activity that doesn’t require intense thought. It clears my mind. After that, I come back sharper and more motivated.
Key Takeaways
Dr. Anas Shargawi shows us that engineering isn’t just about technical skills. It’s also about understanding people and processes. His journey from Saudi Arabia to Wichita illustrates the power of adaptability and continuous learning. He believes in integrating human factors with digital advancements to make aerospace manufacturing better, safer, and more efficient. His insights remind us that real success comes from ongoing curiosity and a willingness to evolve.