We’re excited to celebrate Aya, a talented Structural Design Engineer who joined QED six months ago at our London office. We recently had the pleasure of interviewing Aya to learn more about her, her experiences and insights during her time with us.
What is your name and how long have you been working at QED?
My name is Aya Alghadhanfri, and I joined the company about 6 months ago.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I enjoy playing tennis, padel, and badminton. I also like running in my free time. I do a 5K morning run every Sunday, and I play either tennis or padel once a week.
Which office are you based in and how do you travel to work?
I am based in the London office, and I travel to work by tube. It takes me about an hour.
What is your favourite thing about where you live in?
I love London because there’s always something to do, whether it’s sports, art exhibitions, concerts, or attending plays and shows. I also live in a lovely area, which is very green and has a beautiful riverside. This allows me to enjoy outdoor runs and walks in fresh air with stunning views.
When did you go to university and what did you study?
I attended Gaziantep University in 2016 and completed my master’s at Kingston University in 2021. I studied Civil Engineering for four years in Turkey and later pursued a master’s in Structural Design and Construction Management in London, graduating with distinction. What I enjoyed most about my master’s program was its focus on project-based work rather than exams. The projects were closely aligned with real-world scenarios, making it a great transition between academic study and professional work.
What was your last job like and how have you progressed since then?
I worked at a structural design consultancy in London, as a Graduate Structural Engineer for two years before joining QED. I started as a graduate, eager to learn about real-world projects and the work culture in London’s construction field. My progress is gradual but steady, as I am gaining more experience and taking on increasingly complex tasks.
Are there any challenges you have had to overcome since working at QED?
Everything at QED has been positive so far. I haven’t faced significant challenges, but I’m always keen to learn and improve.
What have you enjoyed about your time at QED so far?
I’ve enjoyed the welcoming atmosphere, the support from my colleagues, and the opportunities to work on interesting projects. I feel like I’ve settled in well and have received positive feedback from my team. I love the collaborative and supportive environment at QED, and the work has been both challenging and rewarding.
Are there any jobs that stand out? If so, why?
All the projects I’ve worked on so far have been great learning experiences. Nothing specific stands out, but I’ve enjoyed the variety and the opportunity to contribute.
Are there any additional comments you wish to make?
No additional comments, but I’m very happy to be part of the QED team and look forward to continuing to grow here.