"What counts on the construction site is togetherness" - Rashid's path to surveying
Rashid, how did you get into surveying engineering and how did you get to STRABAG?
Rashid: I studied surveying engineering in Aleppo. My degree was recognized in Germany. i started working in a small surveying office in 2016 and improved my German at the same time. I found out about STRABAG through a newspaper advertisement that my neighbor discovered and sent to me. I didn't know the company beforehand, but I quickly realized that it was a large corporation, which really appealed to me. After my application, the recruiting team got back to me quickly and that's how I found my way to STRABAG.
What projects and experiences do you particularly remember?
Rashid: When I started at STRABAG, I was immediately assigned to a large infrastructure project in Wittlich. I learned a lot from my colleagues there and immediately felt welcome. I was very impressed by the respectful cooperation.
In general, I love the combination of construction site and practice. The interaction, the togetherness and the fact that you can laugh together - that makes a big difference to me. On the construction site, it's the team that counts, regardless of training or background. I've made real friends there.
What experiences have particularly strengthened you?
Rashid: My biggest challenge was and is the language. I learn and practise a lot. Especially at the beginning, everything had to happen quickly because I really wanted to work and arrive. This motivation to find my place and contribute my knowledge is still with me today.
What makes your job special?
Rashid: Every opinion counts in our team. We deal with each other openly and respectfully, and it is precisely this cooperation that makes our work so strong.
What many people don't know: Good surveying depends on communication. It is often crucial for the entire construction process. If something goes wrong somewhere, foremen, site managers and us surveyors have to talk to each other quickly and directly. That's the only way we can find solutions.
Our profession is also constantly evolving. New technologies are added every year, which makes the job exciting. You should be open to new things and enjoy constantly developing yourself.
How have the surveying processes changed as a result of digitalization?
Rashid: An enormous amount has changed. We used to transfer data manually using USB sticks. Today, everything is done digitally and in some cases directly from the office, without us having to be on site. That saves time and makes work easier. Nevertheless, I still enjoy being on the construction site. I also have a drone license, which I use for certain tasks.
What goals do you have for the future?
Rashid: I want to make the profession of surveying engineer better known. That's why I'm active on LinkedIn and give insights into my day-to-day work. I hope to inspire so many young people for surveying.