Woman in STEM: Engineering student represents Dubai university in ASHRAE Conference

Engineering student Rifa Anwar, a Curtin University Dubai student, represented her university and the ASHRAE Falcon Chapter UAE at the 2026 ASHRAE Annual Conference in Austin, Texas. The journey began when Rifa joined the ASHRAE Curtin Dubai Student Branch during her first year of university. She actively participated in workshops, guest lectures, industry visits, networking events, and volunteering opportunities through the branch, enhancing her technical skills, confidence, and industry connections.

Her involvement culminated in earning a prestigious Student Travel Grant, enabling her to attend the annual conference. The conference gathered engineers, researchers, academics, and industry leaders to discuss the latest advancements in the HVAC&R industry. Beyond technical sessions, Rifa networked with industry leaders, learning about diverse career paths and the importance of continuous learning and new experiences.

Representing her university and the ASHRAE Falcon Chapter UAE on an international stage provided her with a unique perspective on the engineering industry. Rifa expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, hoping to inspire other women in STEM to pursue similar experiences. Professor Chithirai Pon Selvan recognized the value of Rifa's involvement in ASHRAE, noting that such opportunities help students bridge academic learning with real-world practice, build global networks, and develop essential skills for future leadership in engineering.