Her Story
About Ashwaq
Ashwaq Alhammami, E.I.T., ENV SP, serves as a Construction Manager with the Office of the County Engineer in Cypress, Texas, bringing more than 18 years of experience in civil engineering, construction management, and infrastructure project delivery. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Building and Construction, specializing in Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, from the University of Technology in Iraq in 2005. She began her career in design and scheduling before transitioning into field-based construction roles, gaining extensive experience in project coordination, inspection, quality control, and construction operations. After serving with the Texas Department of Transportation and the City of Houston, she joined Harris County, where she oversees daily construction activities, coordinates with contractors, consultants, and stakeholders, and manages infrastructure projects involving roads, bridges, drainage improvements, and flood mitigation.
Throughout her career, Alhammami has developed a strong reputation for technical expertise, leadership, problem-solving, and commitment to delivering safe, high-quality projects. Her experience spans more than 28 vertical and horizontal construction projects, ranging from major commercial buildings to complex roadway and infrastructure developments. She recently earned her Engineer-in-Training (E.I.T.) certification and is working toward obtaining her Professional Engineer (P.E.) license. Her professional development also includes OSHA safety training and certifications related to asphalt and materials testing. In addition to her technical responsibilities, she is actively involved in professional organizations, including the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the Women’s Transportation Society (WTS), where she has contributed to mentorship initiatives and supported summer interns and emerging professionals.
Beyond her work in construction and engineering, Alhammami is deeply committed to advancing career opportunities and professional development within the engineering community. She is a co-founder and board member of the American Arab Engineering Society (AAES), a nonprofit organization established to support Arab American engineers through mentorship, training, networking, and career development. A passionate mentor and public speaker, she regularly shares her knowledge and experiences to encourage others to pursue leadership and professional growth. Her career reflects remarkable persistence and determination, qualities she developed from an early age and has carried throughout her professional journey. As a woman building a career in the traditionally male-dominated construction industry, Alhammami has embraced challenges as opportunities to grow, lead, and demonstrate that perseverance, expertise, and a commitment to others can create lasting impact.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ashwaq
01What do you attribute your success to?
I don't give up easily. If I want something, I will do it and keep trying and trying until I reach the dead end. Since I was a kid, I don't give up. Giving up is not in my dictionary.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
It's a challenge. Don't be afraid, and just follow your lead, follow your soul, and you will find yourself. There will always be someone who will help you to meet your goals. Don't believe everything negative you hear about the field - the stories are just one percent of what's happening.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Being a woman in construction is very challenging because some men don't accept women in the field. Women are seen as soft and not born for heavy work, but we want to do it. Adapting to the difficult nature of the construction industry in the field.
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