We recently connected with Ayad Saknee and have shared our conversation below.
Ayad, so glad you were able to set aside some time for us today. We’ve always admired not just your journey and success, but also the seemingly high levels of self-discipline that you seem to have mastered and so maybe we can start by chatting about how you developed it or where it comes from?
My self-discipline comes from my faith as a Muslim. Islam teaches us to control our desires, remain patient during hardship, and stay committed to what is right, even when it’s difficult. I draw strength from daily prayers, Muslims pray five times a day, and from fasting during the holy month of Ramadan, where we refrain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. I also reflect deeply on the sacrifices of the Ahlul Bayt, especially Imam Hussain (peace be upon him), whose stand at Karbala inspires me to hold firmly to my values. My mother always reminded me that Allah is always watching, and that awareness motivates me to stay disciplined even when no one else is around.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Originally, I’m from Iraq. I came to the United States in search of a better life for my family. I had always dreamed of becoming a college professor, and one of my main goals in leaving Iraq was to earn a graduate degree in the U.S. I’m proud to say that I achieved that goal and eventually earned my doctorate.
Today, I teach at both a community college and a university. What I find most exciting and meaningful about my role is helping students. I strongly believe that education has the power to change lives. That’s why I focus not only on delivering academic content, but also on supporting my students personally. I make it a priority to show them that I care and that I’m here to help. This creates an open and welcoming environment where students feel comfortable reaching out, knowing that my door is always open.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, the three qualities that were most impactful in my journey were determination, patience, and genuine care for others. My advice to those early in their journey is this: stay committed to your goals, stay curious, and stay kind. Work hard on your education, but also invest in building relationships and showing empathy. The combination of knowledge and compassion will take you far.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I launched an initiative at Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) to support women in technology, with the goal of providing guidance in both education and career development. As one of the Global Ambassadors for Women in Technology, I was proud to host PVCC’s first Women in Technology (WIT) event in Spring 2025. Our WIT@PV event featured hands-on sessions where high school girls could explore various technology majors through engaging and practical learning experiences.
For our upcoming Spring 2026 event, I’m seeking partnerships with employers to involve professional women in IT. By attending the event, they can offer students hands-on experiences and share their personal journeys in the tech industry, helping to inspire the next generation of women in technology.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
The image I provided is from the first Women in Technology event hosted at Paradise Valley Community College in spring 2025. It was publicly shared on social media, so I’m not sure if additional permission is still required.
Here is the direct link for it
https://www.instagram.com/p/DFgkjYdNUrY/?img_index=1
The other pictures are from presenting at Arizona State University as part of the American Dream Academy and STEAM Career initiative!
This program is dedicated to empowering students and community members by providing insights into the vast opportunities within STEAM fields provided by Maricopa Community Colleges.
Thanks ASU for the invitation.
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dr-ayad-saknee-00011671_mcccd-pvcc-asu-activity-7253882084958560256-Ep5o?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAA8lFYABUn8-6KW7MuSxgqiVCmCbMauAsTQ
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
