AUS student Ahmad AlQawasmi wins UAE’s top innovation award

Ahmad AlQawasmi isn’t a typical sophomore. While most university students are still figuring out their career paths, AlQawasmi is busy redefining what’s possible in the world of engineering. Majoring in computer engineering at American University of Sharjah (AUS), AlQawasmi has just clinched one of the UAE's most prestigious honors—the Excellence and Creative Engineering Award, presented by the Society of Engineers UAE. This award, personally handed to him by His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan Al-Maktoum, Patron of Al-Maktoum College of Higher Education and Chairman of the Al-Maktoum Foundation’s Board of Trustees, recognizes the brightest minds shaping the future of engineering.

The Excellence and Creative Engineering Award celebrates outstanding university students who demonstrate exceptional talent, creativity and impact in the field of engineering. Designed to foster a spirit of innovation and healthy competition, the award acknowledges students who have made significant contributions through groundbreaking projects, academic excellence and a vision for addressing real-world challenges. AlQawasmi was honored in the University Student category, reflecting his remarkable achievements and leadership in advancing engineering solutions that blend sustainability, technology and entrepreneurial spirit.

AlQawasmi’s journey into the world of innovation didn’t start in a university lab. At the age of 12, while others were struggling with middle school science projects, AlQawasmi was busy building a fully functional bionic arm designed to assist individuals with disabilities. That early spark of curiosity soon ignited into a passion for engineering solutions that tackle real-world problems.

“I’ve always believed that engineering is about imagining things that don’t exist yet and then making them real,” said AlQawasmi. That belief has fueled a series of projects, including 3DGreen—an initiative that tackles both the high cost of 3D printing filament and the global plastic waste crisis. With 3DGreen, AlQawasmi found a way to recycle plastic waste into affordable, high-quality filament, proving that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand.

But AlQawasmi didn’t stop there. At just 17, he founded 3DLUX, a fashion-tech startup that blends cutting-edge technology with sustainable design. Imagine wearing 3D-printed clothing that’s not only stylish but also eco-friendly, crafted from recycled materials. That’s the vision behind 3DLUX and AlQawasmi is determined to make it a global phenomenon.

From securing first place at the International Space Design Competition at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, where he represented Palestine and Jordan, to taking top honors in the Dubai Customs IP and AI Award, AlQawasmi has consistently demonstrated that age is no barrier to excellence. Yet, for him, these accolades aren’t the destination; they’re milestones on a journey fueled by curiosity and purpose.

“Awards are great, but what really drives me is the idea that something I create could make someone's life better or inspire the next generation of engineers,” he said. That drive is evident in his latest project: transforming a classic 1962 Corvette C1 into an all-electric vehicle. 

Looking ahead, AlQawasmi has no plans to slow down. He dreams of expanding 3DLUX into a global brand and pushing the boundaries of 3D manufacturing. More immediately, he’s working on a robotics project that he hopes will leave a lasting legacy at AUS and ignite a passion for engineering among his peers.

“Engineering is a journey without a finish line. Every project, every idea, is a chance to shape the future in ways we haven't imagined yet,” AlQawasmi concluded.

AlQawasmi's remarkable journey is a reflection of the dynamic learning environment fostered by the AUS College of Engineering. Through its innovative programs, cutting-edge research opportunities and emphasis on real-world problem solving, the college empowers students to think beyond traditional boundaries. To learn more about what sets the college apart, visit www.aus.edu/cen.