February 21, 2024 by SME Communications Who is Hasnaa Ouidadi? I am Hasnaa Ouidadi, currently a graduate research associate and PhD student in manufacturing engineering at Arizona State University (ASU). My research focuses on leveraging machine learning and advanced analytics for process planning and in-situ quality monitoring and assessment within smart additive manufacturing processes. My academic journey originates in aerospace engineering, where I earned my bachelor's degree from the International University of Rabat (UIR) in Morocco. Thanks to the collaboration between UIR and Mississippi State University (MSU), I seized the opportunity to pursue my graduate studies in the U.S. During my time in the U.S., I achieved dual master's degrees: one in aerospace engineering from MSU and another in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M University (TAMU). Recognizing the demanding nature of engineering, I prioritize maintaining a work-life balance. To alleviate the stresses associated with research, I dedicate at least 45 minutes each day to a workout routine, alternating between cardio and walking. Additionally, staying connected with my parents, grandfather, siblings, and friends serves as a valuable source of support, helping me momentarily escape the daily pressures of work. Hasnaa's Career Journey Among the 12 classes I undertook in primary school, my favorites were music, painting, French, and, surprisingly, "mathematics." This fondness for mathematics deepened during middle school, prompting a desire to explore a career path heavily rooted in mathematical subjects. Following discussions with my professors and family, their advice steered me towards an engineering career. Notably, my parents and grandfather have been my primary sources of inspiration, instilling in me the belief that education is pivotal for success. Their encouragement has fueled my commitment to excel in my studies and work. My academic journey has spanned two distinct yet interconnected fields: aerospace engineering and smart manufacturing. In high school, my fascination with aircraft and their transformative impact on transportation led me to choose aerospace engineering for my bachelor’s degree. The allure of these massive metal structures, shaping an efficient, innovative, and stimulating industry, fueled my passion. After completing my master's degree at TAMU, I ventured into a role as an analyst intern at the Ministry of Industry in Morocco. Here, I contributed to a project focused on developing action plans to harness Industry 4.0 technologies, such as artificial intelligence, additive manufacturing, and digital twins, to enhance the competitiveness of the Moroccan aerospace sector. This experience illuminated how advanced technologies have revolutionized industries and transformed business and factory operations. Motivated by this exposure, I decided to further my studies in the realm of data-driven smart manufacturing. This commitment led me to pursue a PhD degree, marking the next chapter in my academic and professional journey. Projects and Achievements In my current role, I'm deeply involved in projects utilizing machine learning (ML) models and advanced analytics to improve additive manufacturing, particularly in in-situ process monitoring, defect detection, prognostics, and process planning. During my first year at ASU, I led a groundbreaking project focused on real-time defect detection in laser metal deposition. This initiative aimed to develop ML models capable of learning from both historical and real-time data, showcasing superior defect detection compared to traditional methods. Throughout my graduate studies at MSU and TAMU, I contributed to projects funded by Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration. These projects focused on enhancing composite materials' performance in aircraft structures under extreme conditions. In addition to aerospace-related work, I validated the Two-Parameter Fracture Criterion (TPFC), an equation developed by Professor J.C. Newman, my master's advisor at MSU. These varied experiences highlight my dedication to advancing knowledge and innovation in engineering and manufacturing. Furthermore, I am honored to have received the '30 Under 30' award by SME. This acknowledgment underscores my commitment to making a positive impact in manufacturing, my community, and beyond. Technology and Continuous Learning To stay updated on smart manufacturing trends, I regularly read recent articles and research papers, identifying technological advancements and potential research gaps. Weekly seminars organized by ASU's School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks provide valuable insights from both academia and industry. Attending these seminars helps me stay informed about advancements in manufacturing, robotics, and data science. Additionally, conferences enhance my awareness of peers' research and expand my professional network. In my view, artificial intelligence (AI) is the most exciting field in engineering. Its superior search and optimization capabilities significantly ease decision-making burdens. AI has proven efficient across diverse fields like marketing, medicine, manufacturing, and finance. Applying AI in engineering can expedite solution discovery and enable swift responses to market demands. Advice for Aspiring Engineers Navigating the challenging path of an engineer or researcher often deviates from our initial plans and proves to be long and stressful. Unforeseen obstacles and failures can demotivate us, prompting thoughts of giving up. In these moments, a genuine passion for our field and a clear goal become essential for overcoming difficulties. Reflecting on our initial motivations helps us rediscover solutions and propels us forward. Once we define our purpose, diligent work, and unwavering perseverance are indispensable for achieving career success. In the realm of engineering, success hinges on a robust foundation in mathematics and coding. Equally critical are effective communication skills, as engineers must articulate their work to supervisors and clients. A thirst for learning, continuous skill development, and adept stress management are qualities paramount in this demanding journey. Additionally, for students from non-English speaking backgrounds, a proficient command of the English language is mandatory. Given that most research papers and books are published in English, mastering this language broadens access to a wealth of resources beyond one's mother tongue.
