AUS computer engineering alum leads international enterprise software company

As country manager at one of the leading providers of enterprise open-source solutions, American University of Sharjah (AUS) alumnus Ali Mohammed AlShami oversees the business operations of Red Hat in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain to ensure the company’s success in a highly competitive business environment.

The 2009 computer engineering graduate said it was his passion for technology that led him to enter this field. “It was the primary reason for me to study computer engineering. I believed that majoring in this field will help me acquire and enhance my technical knowledge and critical skills that are crucial for supporting me throughout my career,” he said.

AlShami, who started off his career as a territory sales representative at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, has been working at Red Hat for almost 10 years. He rose through the ranks until he was appointed country director for Saudi Arabia and Bahrain three years ago.

“I have always aspired to take on a role that allows me to create something significant and to add value. Taking the role of Country Manager helps me execute my mission and translate my vision into action. Throughout my professional journey, I learnt that the key to success is following your passion with consistency,” he said.

AlShami added that his university experience at AUS helped him significantly in his career. He said: “Throughout my university years, I develop and enhanced my knowledge and skills, which equipped me for my position today. Attending AUS and majoring in computer engineering were some of the best decisions I have made in my life. The environment on campus, the variety of activities and events that took place, and the extensive knowledge faculty members have in academia and the industry were some of the factors that helped me have the best experience at university.” 

AlShami aspires to grow in his current position and oversee operations in broader regions, lead multiple teams across different geographical areas and take on an international role one day.

He offered some advice to university students who are yet to enter the professional world.

“Capitalize on your educational opportunity and ensure that you get the most out of your experience. Put your maximum effort to learn and acquire the knowledge you need and improve on your critical thinking and problem-solving skills for they are instrumental to your success upon graduation,” he said.

AUS offers both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in computer engineering, and a bachelor’s degree in computer science. For more information on these highly regarded and accredited programs, please visit www.aus.edu/cen.