They spent 8 months in America learning about the Dreamliner programme. Maryam Al Kuwaiti and Naseefa Al Ameri, both in their 20s, work at Strata Manufacturing in Al Ain, and both of them are very proud at working on Boeing’s prestigious 787 Dreamliner programme.

Both the Emirati women are mechanical engineers and have worked with Strata for several years. They have learned how the tail fins are made for the 787 which is the world’s most advanced passenger jets.

Ms. Al Ameri, who joined Strata in 2013 says, “I like Math, Physics and Chemistry and I wanted to study something unique that nobody from my family studied. I wanted to find a company where I could apply the knowledge in an advanced way and be a part of the development of my country.”

Ms. Al Kuwaiti has worked with Strata for more than 5 years and says, “I’ve always been interested in manufacturing and creating things. No one from my family has been a mechanical engineer – I didn’t want to be a doctor.” She also goes on further to say that she never expected to see such a great facility in Al Ain.

“The first time I ever came here I was surprised,” said Ms. Al Kuwaiti. “There were sand dunes and sand dunes – where is the company? But more people know about it now. It has a really good reputation around here.”

The two of them worked with top engineers in the field from Salt lake City and Seattle and also learned about the complex production process from 8 months straight. Now they both share their expertise with strata.

“At the end, both Boeing and us were both sad it was ending as it was such an amazing experience,” said Ms Al Kuwaiti. “We were so happy with the work we did together.”