Born in Dubai and proudly Jordanian, Essra Alshawabkeh is not your ordinary civil engineer. She’s a construction manager, entrepreneur, public speaker, and a lifestyle influencer with a mission to break gender stereotypes and empower women in STEM.
Her journey is more than just blueprints and building sites. It’s about overcoming bias, setting bold goals, and inspiring others to dream big.
From Childhood Dreams to Engineering Blueprints
Raised in a family that values education and professional success, Essra grew up watching her father manage construction sites while her mother built a successful career in dentistry. That environment shaped her from an early age.
But it wasn’t always easy. Growing up in a culture where boys were often favored, Essra was the first girl born into her family. While she was loved and supported, she quietly sensed the pressure to prove her worth. That pressure turned into fuel. Determined to show that daughters are just as capable as sons, she began forging her own path filled with drive, discipline, and purpose.
Building Foundations: Academic and Personal
Essra earned her Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the prestigious American University of Sharjah (AUS), followed by a Master’s degree in Construction Management, with a specialization in geotechnical studies.
While at AUS, she coauthored a research paper on improving the shear strength of clay soil using plastic cement mixtures. This breakthrough work led to an invitation to speak at the International Multidisciplinary Engineering Research Conference in the Philippines, a proud moment that marked her place in the global engineering space.
Following Her Father’s Footsteps With Her Own Vision
Essra’s inspiration started at home. Years of accompanying her father to construction sites and client meetings gave her firsthand experience in engineering and business.
“My father always said, ‘There is always money in engineering.’ That stayed with me,” she says.
But beyond technical skills, Essra brought something unique to the table her personality. With a vibrant sense of style and a positive, relatable energy, she found herself influencing people both inside and outside her industry. Encouraged by peers and mentors, she began to use social media as a platform to motivate and connect with a wider audience.
Turning Challenges Into Fuel
Breaking into a male dominated field wasn’t easy. She had to overcome doubts, prove her abilities, and work twice as hard to be taken seriously. But through resilience, support from her family, and a constant hunger to grow, Essra emerged stronger.
“Every challenge made me sharper, more confident, and more committed to my goals,” she shares.
Her story is one of determination. Turning every “no” into a “not yet” and every obstacle into an opportunity.
Leading the Future of Sustainable Construction
Today, Essra is deeply focused on sustainable building practices. Her master’s thesis on urban soil reuse promotes ecofriendly methods in construction an area she believes is vital for future ready cities.
Aligned with UAE Vision 2030, her goal is to drive environmentally responsible construction through the family owned Khalid Alshawabkeh Engineering Construction Company (KAS).
From villas in Sharjah to urban projects in Dubai and Ajman, KAS is a name known for reliability, quality, and affordability. Under Essra’s leadership, it is being reimagined as a pioneer in sustainable, innovative engineering solutions.
Interested clients can contact KAS to turn their vision into a dream home.
Entrepreneurial Spirit Meets Community Passion
Beyond engineering, Essra is also an entrepreneur with a flair for design and beauty. She leads several ventures:
- Alshawabkeh Jewellery
- Jollie Atelier Beauty Center
- KAS Engineering and Construction
Each brand reflects her diverse skills and passions from elegance in design to empowering others through beauty and creativity.
Essra is also actively involved in community work. One example: she joined AUS’s toy making workshop, creating plush toys for orphans. It’s a perfect example of how she blends engineering, creativity, and compassion.
Building More Than Just Buildings
Essra’s mission goes beyond concrete and steel. She wants to challenge stereotypes and prove that women can be leaders in STEM while embracing femininity, fashion, and flair.
“Engineering isn’t just about technical skills,” she says. “It’s about leadership, vision, and confidence. You don’t have to give up your identity to lead.”
Through her growing presence on Instagram and TikTok, Essra shares daily insights, motivational stories, and style inspiration, all while staying grounded in her core mission to empower others.
Acknowledging the Pillars of Her Journey
Behind her achievements stands a strong support system.
“I wouldn’t be where I am without my father, Eng. Khalid Alshawabkeh,” she says. “He invested in my future with love, guidance, and trust.”
She also thanks her aunt, Dr. Esraa Alshawabkeh, a role model and mentor whose strength continues to inspire her. And finally, her sister, Wassan, who has always been her biggest cheerleader.
Their unwavering belief gave Essra the courage to push through every challenge.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Essra dreams of expanding KAS into a regional leader in sustainable engineering. But just as importantly, she hopes to leave a legacy that uplifts other women.
“I want to show young girls that you can wear heels and a hard hat and do both with confidence,” she says with a smile.
Her advice to her younger self:
“Trust your journey. Don’t let fear hold you back. Your uniqueness is your power.”
Career Lessons Worth Sharing
Essra believes success is built on consistency, patience, and adaptability. Whether on a construction site or in a business meeting, these values guide her work and mindset.
To those starting their career journeys, she offers this:
“Speak up. Take the opportunity. Surround yourself with people who believe in your potential.”
Do follow her on Instagram
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