Mohamed Salem: My Technology Scholarship was a catalyst for an incredible journey of personal and professional transformation
Last year we had the pleasure to introduce Mohamed Salem, a Technology Scholarship holder from Egypt, who successfully graduated from the Master’s degree in Information and Communications Engineering at AAU. We take now the opportunity to interview him again to follow up on his career development in the Carinthian ICT sector and reflect on how he has benefited from his experience as a Technology Scholarship holder.
You have successfully graduated from the Master’s degree programme in Information and Communications Engineering: Autonomous Systems and Robotics. Why did you specifically choose this programme and the University of Klagenfurt? What was it like to study here?
I chose this Master’s degree programme due to my passion for mechatronics and a strong desire to delve deeper into the realms of robotics and artificial intelligence. This programme stood out because of its comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications, and its focus on cutting-edge technologies in autonomous systems and robotics. The university’s commitment to innovation and diversity, coupled with the opportunity to work with renowned professors and researchers in this field, were significant factors in my decision.
Studying at the University of Klagenfurt was an enriching and transformative experience. The university’s inclusive and collaborative environment provided a conducive space for learning and innovation. I had access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, which were pivotal in enhancing my learning experience. Working on real-world projects and participating in research internships allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios, thereby solidifying my understanding and skills. The scenic beauty of Klagenfurt, along with its vibrant cultural life, added to the overall enjoyment and balance of my academic life.
During your studies, you were a Technology Scholarships holder. What meaning did the scholarship have for you personally and professionally? How did you benefit from it?
The Technology Scholarship I received during my studies was more than just financial assistance: it was a catalyst for an incredible journey of personal and professional transformation. On a personal level, it was an affirmation of my abilities and potential, significantly boosting my confidence. This encouragement, coupled with the financial relief it provided, allowed me to fully immerse myself in my university studies and enjoy the learning experience without the stress of financial constraints. Additionally, the scholarship exposed me to a diverse group of professionals and new ideas, challenging me to adapt and grow stronger, both of which are essential skills in any professional setting.
Professionally, the scholarship has been a gateway to a wealth of opportunities and resources. It granted me access to the latest technological advancements, top-notch labs, and exclusive seminars, all of which played a critical role in my current position. The practical experience gained through internships and projects, together with the networking activities expanded through the scholarship, have been instrumental in shaping my career.
Read the full interview with Kyandoghere Kyamakya
An internship was part of your Master’s degree programme. Where did you work, how did you find this internship and could you tell us a bit more about it?
For my first internship I worked at the Transportation Informatics Lab at the University of Klagenfurt, where I got a real taste of what working in the tech world looks like. This experience was my first chance to put my classroom learning into action. Every day brought a new challenge, pushing me to apply what I knew and constantly learn more. One of the biggest takeaways from this experience was learning that even if you start with little knowledge in a specific area, you can quickly pick it up and apply your skills.
Then, I moved on to an internship at Infineon Technologies, which evolved into a project for my master thesis. Here, not only I applied my academic knowledge to real-world challenges but also learned to adapt quickly and innovate within a professional setting. My role involved using AI to identify different structures in analog circuits, a challenging and thrilling task. My work spanned creating novel data types, developing unique labeling methods, and implementing advanced AI for circuit recognition. This journey was a major transformation for me, turning me from a student into a professional, ready to solve complex problems with innovative solutions. This experience sharpened my technical skills and honed my ability to think critically and creatively in a dynamic environment.
Can you tell us a bit more about your current work? How did your studies at the AAU, the Technology Scholarships programme and your internship contribute to taking this career path?
My internship laid the groundwork for my current role at Infineon Technologies, where I continue to explore and innovate in Codesign, Digitalization, and AI. In my current role, I am part of a dynamic and innovative team and my days are filled with exciting challenges, where I get to develop and refine software tools that play a crucial role in improving our CoDesign work environment. It’s all about making things more efficient and effective, which is both rewarding and intellectually stimulating. I also get to work with the latest technologies in digitalization and AI, exploring new possibilities and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in our industry. It’s a role that keeps me on my toes and constantly learning, which I absolutely love.
Additionally, I have the privilege of being a lecturer of Autonomous Driving Cars at the AAU. This role allows me to share my insights and experience in the field, inspiring and educating the next generation of tech enthusiasts and professionals. It’s an opportunity that complements my work at Infineon, enabling me to stay connected with academic advancements while applying practical industry knowledge.
The journey to my current position has been significantly shaped by my academic and practical experiences. The in-depth curriculum in Autonomous Systems and Robotics at AAU provided a solid foundation in the core principles and advanced technologies in my field. This academic base was essential for preparing me to tackle the complex tasks I now encounter in my role.
Beyond the academic training, the encouragement and guidance from key mentors have been pivotal in my career development. Prof. Kyandoghere Kyamakya at AAU was instrumental in fostering my passion for innovation and pushing the boundaries of my knowledge. His insights and encouragement played a crucial role in my academic and professional growth. Similarly, at Infineon Technologies, my manager, Manuel Lexer, has been a significant influence, supporting and guiding me through complex projects. His leadership and vision have been invaluable in my journey, encouraging me to continually innovate and excel.
Read the full interview with Manuel Ludwig Lexer
In your opinion, how can local ICT companies benefit from supporting the Technology Scholarships programme?
Local ICT companies can gain considerable advantages by supporting the Technology Scholarship programme. This initiative brings in new talented individuals who are equipped with innovative ideas and the most recent academic knowledge, essential for advancing technology. Furthermore, such support strengthens ties between companies and universities, paving the way for collaborative research and innovation. Investing in education also enhances a company’s reputation, portraying them as responsible and forward-thinking entities in the eyes of potential employees and customers. Additionally, the varied perspectives and experiences of scholarship recipients can greatly enrich the company culture, fostering an environment of creativity and innovation. In essence, by supporting this scholarship programme, ICT companies not only contribute positively to the community but also position themselves strategically in the ever-evolving regional labour market in the technological sector.
