Featured Employee – Ali Wagih
Ali is a Field Engineer with RAM. He graduated with a degree in Applied Science in Civil Engineering from the University of British Columbia, where he won the Outstanding International Student Award given by the University of British Columbia in 2014 and was on the Dean’s Honour List. Ali is registered as an Engineer in Training (EIT) with Engineers and Geoscientists BC (EGBC). He is currently working as a Field Engineer for the construction of the Vancouver Airport Fuel Delivery (VAFD) Project’s Marine Facility.
Tell us about your role at RAM? What do you like most about it?
As an EIT on the VAFD project, my role revolves around taking on field based responsibilities to ensure that the project is completed on time, under budget, and in conformance with the specifications. This involves acting as a liaison between the various project stakeholders, monitoring site activity, managing the trifecta of submittals, RFIs, and NCRs, and implementing the project’s safety and quality plans.
What I enjoy the most about my role is the exposure that I am getting to such a large and impactful project in the community. Working on a project with this size and complexity has its challenges but at the end of the day I am always satisfied knowing that my work is improving the lives of people around me.
How has RAM helped you in your career development?
As a recent graduate, RAM has supported my career development by promoting a continuous learning culture and encouraging me to pursue relevant courses and workshops that will further my career advancement. In my first year, I was able to complete three workshops and obtained certifications that will better position me to achieve my career goals. I have also benefited greatly from the mentorship of my more experienced colleagues and was able to expand my technical and interpersonal skills by shadowing them and learning from their insights and guidance.
What are 3 words to describe RAM?
Collaborative, Gritty and Fun.
What do you like most about RAM?
I really like the team-first attitude that everyone at RAM exhibits. I find that that my coworkers are always extremely proactive in helping each other and that always inspires me to go above and beyond when my help is needed.
What drew you to RAM originally?
I was originally drawn to RAM for the fact that it’s a growing company; small in size but large in potential. I knew that I would be expected to wear multiple hats and work outside the to-do list but in return I would be able to learn and develop myself beyond the constraints of my role. I also truly cherish that I am able to interact with the whole RAM team and to draw on my coworkers’ experiences to gain knowledge in various areas.
What have you gained from working at RAM?
Apart from the more obvious professional and technical growth, I have gained the pleasure of forming deep bonds and friendships with my colleagues through the many collaboration opportunities and events that RAM offers.
Random fact?
Steve Kerr (8x NBA Champion) went to my high school in Egypt.
What are 3 career lessons you’ve learned this far?
- The fresh perspective that a young engineer brings can be invaluable at times. Don’t be afraid to voice your opinion or share your insight – the worst that could happen is you’ll learn something new.
- Take time to connect with your colleagues on a personal level.
- This is more of a life lesson but it applies to careers as well: Everyone goes at their own pace, don’t let the success of others define yours.
Interested in joining RAM and learning more about our Members-in-Training program? Head over to our careers page to learn more.