Entrepreneur.co sat down with Dr. Anas A. Shargawi of Wichita, Kansas, an accomplished industrial engineer and systems expert who has been a driving force in optimizing operational performance in the aerospace sector. Dr. Shargawi at Spirit AeroSystems has made significant strides in integrating digital transformation and enhancing process efficiency. We asked about his inspirations, key projects, and advice for those aspiring to lead in highly technical industries.
Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
I’ve always been curious about how complex systems come together. Making things work better fascinates me. My background in industrial and systems engineering gave me a big-picture view of how to optimize processes. It all started during my studies at King AbdulAziz University.
That’s where I first saw the power of ergonomics and systems engineering in action. Later, working at Saudia Aerospace Engineering Industries, I managed large-scale aircraft maintenance. Seeing a well-designed process make a difference sparked my passion. It drove me to keep learning and to bring meaningful change to the aerospace industry.
What was the pivotal “aha” moment that defined your leadership or business approach?
One of my most memorable moments happened at CNH Industrial. We were hit with a big production delay. It forced me to think fast and change our strategy. I turned to simulation modeling. With it, I showed how tweaking processes could fix the problem and even boost output quality. That experience taught me a major lesson: blending data with strategic thinking works wonders. It shaped how I lead today. I focus on using data smartly while also prioritizing practical, human-centered engineering.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how did you overcome them to achieve success?
Leading a digital transformation project at Spirit AeroSystems wasn’t simple. People like sticking to familiar routines. Introducing new digital tools meant shifting deep-rooted habits. My approach was straightforward: open communication and practical workshops. I didn’t just talk about change. I showed how these tools could make their work better. We addressed worries head-on, using clear, real-life examples. It worked. We earned trust and made progress. The experience taught me something valuable. Successful change isn’t about technology alone. It’s about understanding people and working with them, not against them.
How has your leadership or innovation made a significant impact on your industry or community?
At Spirit AeroSystems, we’ve challenged the norms in aerospace manufacturing. Our digital transformation efforts didn’t just improve processes—they set new standards. We cut production cycle times while keeping quality top-notch. But it’s not all about numbers. One of the best parts of my work is mentoring young engineers. I help them tackle complex projects and push for new ways to improve. Watching them grow and succeed is incredibly fulfilling. It’s proof that investing in people is just as important as investing in technology.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or leaders looking to make their mark in your industry?
Always keep learning. Adapt quickly. The aerospace industry is changing fast. We see new tech, automation, and a push for sustainability. Stay curious. Challenge the status quo. Sometimes, innovation comes from asking, “Why do we do it this way?” See problems as chances to make things better. And don’t underestimate the power of strong relationships. Mentors and colleagues can be game-changers for your growth and career.
Can you highlight a specific project or initiative you’ve led that showcases your innovation and leadership?
One project I’m particularly proud of is the automated ergonomic assessment system I led at Spirit AeroSystems. We used motion capture and simulation to evaluate ergonomic risks in our manufacturing processes. This wasn’t just about worker safety—though that was a huge focus. It was also about boosting productivity. By catching and addressing risk factors early, we made the workspace safer and more efficient.
It showed how technology can serve two purposes: keeping people safe and improving operations. Combining human factors engineering with modern tech created lasting improvements. I also take pride in sharing my research online. You can find my work on ResearchGate and Google Scholar. It’s fulfilling to spread knowledge and learn from others.
Key Takeaways
Dr. Anas Shargawi exemplifies the impactful fusion of innovation, technology, and human-centered engineering in the aerospace industry through his transformative projects and thoughtful approach to leadership. His story is one of continual growth, strategic thinking, and dedication to excellence, inspiring the next generation of industry leaders.
