SoftBank Robotics Women's Week: Interview with Ons Chalghoumi

International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate women and girls around the world for their determination and achievements. This week we are also honoring extraordinary women in our company by sharing their career success stories. Hopefully, these interviews will also inspire you to pursue your dream career, perhaps also in robotics!
 

HEART: Hi Ons, tell us about your current role at SBRE and what you are working on at the moment!

Ons: Hello, I am currently a Test Bench Engineer at the AME (Advanced Manufacturing Engineering) team. My role is to design, develop and implement test benches in the production line. The purpose of these tests is to validate the conformity of the various modules of our robots before assembly as well as the conformity of the complete robot after assembly.

This is your first job experience. What are some tips you’d give to our readers who are first-time job seekers to land their dream job and succeed in it? 

Here are some indispensable steps, in my opinion, to land your dream job and succeed in it!
First of all, it’s important to identify what you are passionate about. In my case, I loved robotics!
Second step; improve your skills and be involved in many projects related to that field.
Third, prepare a good CV and a motivation letter and apply to your dream job! 
During the interview do not hesitate to express what you learnt and show motivation.
Finally, if you get accepted then just enjoy what you do, work hard and keep learning - then you will definitely succeed!

During your studies, you were a member of two student organizations; AeRobotiX for robotics and aeronautics and Securinets for computer security. What kind of activities did you do there? Based on your experience, what are the benefits of joining a student organization? 

During my studies I was a member of different student organizations but mainly the robotics organization "AeRobotix INSAT". Within this organization I took my first step in this field: I participated in various robotics projects and competitions. 
I strongly encourage students to join organizations because it’s a great way to develop soft skills and knowledge. In fact, student organizations offer experiences that you can’t have in a classroom environment. They offer the opportunity to grow, both personally and professionally. They also give you the opportunity to network within specific employer markets and with other students of similar interests. Besides, the experience gained through student organizations can help you identify your career aspirations and it can appeal to employers when they are making hiring decisions.

You moved to France 2 years ago, what are some perks of living and working in Paris? Is there a funny or interesting experience from your life as an expat that you would like to share with our readers?

Indeed, I moved to Paris two years ago and since then my life has changed significantly. Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and what I like the most about it is this contrast between its typical architecture, that shows you how unique this city is, and its diversity - it is a cosmopolitan city with a very special richness that comes from all the foreign influences. 
I always say to my friends that a long walk in Paris is similar to a tour around the world.

Is there a woman that has inspired you in your career or a role model you would like to follow? 

I am really  inspired by Michelle Obama. She is such an inspiring woman and her life story is absolutely amazing. After reading her memoir Becoming, I realized that I can chase my dreams and succeed if I believe in myself. 
I also learned from her experience that a powerful woman can make a huge difference in her environment and thus influence the world. This can only be possible through hard work and perseverance.