Panels
Panel Speaker Registration: https://www.xcdsystem.com/IEOM/attendee/index.cfm?ID=jzpjeHF
Panel on
Protection of Industrial Assets from Emerging Cybersecurity
2:00 – 3:45 pm, Monday, February 12, Room 1 – Ballroom
Panel Chair
Ayman Al Issa
Industrial Cybersecurity Lead and Senior Expert
McKinsey & Company
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Ayman Al Issa is the McKinsey Industrial Cybersecurity Global Lead and Senior Expert. prior to joining McKinsey, he was the Chief Technologist for Booz Allen Hamilton’s Industrial Cyber Security practice in the international market. Over a career which spans more than 27 years to date, Al Issa has gained vast experience in the fields of industrial automation operational technology, information technology, and cyber security. Within these arenas, he counts industrial control systems and systems engineering, as well as cyber security strategy and model building amongst his areas of expertise. Illustrating his contribution to the latter, Mr. Al Issa is a globally recognized expert in industrial cyber security who had early contributions to improving the practice globally.
Contributing to the wider industrial cybersecurity debate, Al Issa is the co-chairman of workgroup 1 in the IEC62443 (formerly ISA99) industrial automation and control systems cyber security standard. He is the chief technology advisor of the Industrial Cybersecurity Center in the ME and he is a member of the cyber security advisory boards at top rated universities world-wide. He is also an active member of international security innovation alliances, focused on improving the security of industrial systems.
Panel Speaker I
Dr. Fuad Alattar
Senior Vice President, Middle East
Siemens Digital Enterprise Services
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dr. Fuad Alattar is a Senior Vice President with Siemens, managing the Digital Enterprise Services business unit in the Middle East since 2017. He has more than 25 years’ experience in automation engineering, OT Cybersecurity, and digitalization fields, including positions of General Manager, Operations Manager, and Engineering Manager.
Throughout his career, he designed the digital systems for dozens of prestigious projects, including the First Smart Multi-Aircraft Docking System in the World, the Largest RO/UF Plant in the World, the Largest Offshore-Onshore Integration Project in the Middle East, and an H2O Award Winning Project.
Dr. Alattar holds a PhD degree in Artificial Intelligence, and he is an active researcher in OT Cybersecurity, Machine Learning, Signal Processing, and Natural Language Processing topics. He was selected by ARAMCO standards’ department to carry out Value Engineering for critical process automation and protection systems.
Women in Industry and Academia (WIIA) Panel + Diversity and Inclusion Panel sponsored by Ford Motor Company
2:00 – 3:40 pm, Wednesday, Feb 14, Room 1 – Ballroom
Panel Chair
Neetu Choudhary
CEO and Founder
Evolvitude FZE
Dubai, UAE
Achievement Highlights
- ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt
- Certified EFQM Assessor
- ISACA Certified in enterprise IT Governance
- Master of Computer Application
- Best Public Speaker 2022 by Global Women Leadership Awards
- Life coach of the year 2021 by Lifestyle Fiesta
- Top-rated Speaker by ISACA USA
- Advanced Diploma in Hypnosis
- Certified NLP Practitioner
- Certified Associate NLP Practitioner
- Certified in Coaching Essentials- Neuro-Semantics,
- Certified Associate and Leadership Coach
- Certified Life Coach
- Certified Organizational Development Coach,
- Certified Emotional Intelligence Coach
Neetu brings neuroscience, behavioral science, and science-based studies along with six sigma-based structured approach to professional development in its most simple, practical, and interesting form. With more than 22 years of experience, Neetu helps organizations improve revenue by upskilling employees and inspiring them. Neetu has won various awards, including Best Public Speaker 2022 by Global Women Leadership Awards, Life Coach of the Year 2021 by Lifestyle Fiesta, and Top-Rated Speaker by ISACA USA for many years. Having won The Brand Ambassador Award, the CR Champion Award, and the Self-Development Award by DP World, she has spoken across the globe, been featured in international magazines, and published more than 100 articles.
She is an author, speaker, and thought leader. Neetu is an idea presentation expert, keynote speaker, strategic partner for startups, corporate trainer, and professional development coach. She has left a highly-paid job at a renowned organization, to embark on an entrepreneurial journey for a cause much bigger than herself. Her work is based on neuroscience, behavioral science, neuroplasticity, NLP (neuro-linguistic programming), emotional intelligence, hypnotherapy, positive intelligence, and a growth mindset. Neetu has a technical background, not HR, she brings science and technical aspects together to enhance professional development.
She is a certified organizational coach, a certified NLP practitioner, an emotional intelligence coach, and a hypnotherapist. She holds a Master’s degree in Computer Applications, is a Six Sigma Black Belt, and is an EFQM Certified Assessor. She is associated with various international business excellence awards as a Team Leader and senior assessor, like DQA by Dubai Economic Development, SKEA by the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce, MRM by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, TAQDEER by the Dubai Ministry of Labour, UAE Innovation by the Dubai Quality Group, ASQ ITEA by the American Society of Quality, Steve Awards USA.
Panel Speaker I
Hitashi Malik, SPHRi, ODCP
Sr. Manager HR, Rasan
Forbes Council Member
LinkedIn Top Community Voice, NHRD Dubai Member
Dubai, UAE
Hitashi is a vivacious and unconventional leader having over 14 years of experience in human resources, people development and culture building. Holding an MBA in HR and certified as SPHRi from HRCI, US, she has also completed the Organization Development Program from Tata Institute of Social Sciences.
Her extensive professional journey spans across the UAE, USA, and India, with notable roles in Tech Startups, Financial Services, Retail, Consulting, and Hospitality. In these sectors, she has proficiently overseen a comprehensive array of HR sub functions, establishing the People function and fostering a work environment conducive to maximizing employee potential.
Currently working as a Sr. Manager HR at Rasan, Hitashi is entrusted with the responsibility of attracting, and retaining talent, creating policies & procedures, developing, and implementing performance reviews and providing strategic HR support to ensure a positive, diverse, high performing organizational culture. She consistently promotes diversity, actively creating an inclusive and equitable environment within the organization.
Notably, Hitashi is a distinguished member of the Forbes HR Council and LinkedIn Top Community Voice.
Panel Speaker II
Dr. Zoubida Benmamoun, PhD
Assistant Professor
Industrial and Mechanical Department
Engineering Faculty
Liwa College
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Dr. Zoubida Benmamoun is an assistant professor in the Industrial and Mechanical Department at the Engineering faculty, with tenure exceeding two decades in the realm of higher education institutions and Industry. She worked as an Adjunct Professor at Hassan II University and as a senior consultant of Supply Chain Management for many international organizations, also as a Procurement and Supply Chain manager for different Aerospace and Engines companies: Boeing, Airbus, Safran Space Group, Linde Forklifts, and Daher Nuclear & Aerospace Technologies.
Dr. Zoubida Benmamoun brings a wealth of experience in teaching and administrative leadership within the higher education sector. Her involvement in numerous meetings, seminars, conferences, and workshops has significantly enriched her pedagogical repertoire, resulting in enhanced teaching methods, skills, and overall knowledge.
Beyond her instructional pursuits. She actively participates in curriculum and syllabi development, while also serving on esteemed committees such as the International Accreditation Committee, examination committees, equivalence committees, disciplinary committees, and others.
Dr. Zoubida has a record of publications in prestigious journals and conferences around the world: Italy, the Czech Republic, Thailand, Morocco, Indonesia, and Uzbekistan. Her research expertise spans across multiple fields, including Operation Excellence, Supply Chain Management, Optimization, education, and specialized studies utilizing content analysis methodologies. Furthermore, Dr. Zoubida has demonstrated leadership skills by leading a research grant and effectively managing resources to achieve research objectives.
Panel Speaker III
Reema Akhtar, Forbes HR, Chartered MCIPD, SHRM-SCP
Official Member, Forbes Human Resources Council
Group HR Head, SeerSolutionz
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
The Group HR Head at SeerSolutionz is a dynamic and innovative leader with over 15 years of experience in human resources. She holds SHRM and CIPD credentials, an MBA in HR and Operations, and specializes in executive search, performance management, conflict resolution, leadership development, L&D, and DEI. She has extensive knowledge of visa and labour laws, HR policies and procedures, and Total Rewards in various regions(India/Europe/MENA).
As an HR Head, She has launched a social media-based hiring campaign that resulted in a 50% increase in qualified applicants and a 95% reduction in hiring costs. She has also diversified each department’s team by hiring employees from diverse backgrounds and with different skills and experiences.
She has established a flexible work policy that allows employees to work from home or the office, depending on their needs. She believes in creating a culture of collaboration, team-building, and excellence.
She is a member of the prestigious FORBES HR council and leads a group (Automation in HR) exclusively within this council.
Panel Speaker IV
Ginelle Skinner John
HR, Midstar
Dubai, UAE
Topic- Debunking DEI & ROI on DEI
Human Resources Professional with experience in multiple areas. Certified SHRM – CP. Excellence in recruitment strategies, process improvements, employee development and compliance to development of policies In-depth understanding of financial goals and implementation of company directives Continually increasing operating efficiency, aiding in the implementation, execution and ongoing validation of standard business processes.
Global Engineering Education Forum – Panel
Industrial Engineering and Operations Management Education and Curriculum
4:00 – 5:40 pm, Wednesday, Feb 14, Room 2
Panel Chair
Professor Abu Masud, Ph.D., P.E.
Professor Emeritus and Past Chair, Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
Past Dean of Graduate School
Wichita State University, Kansas, USA
Dr. Abu Masud is a professor of industrial and manufacturing engineering at Wichita State University. He has been named the Boeing Global Engineering Professor at Wichita State University. In this new post, Dr. Masud is expected to advance the College of Engineering’s strategic alliances for global enrichment and experiential learning of students as well as international research collaborations and partnerships. He received Duane and Velma Wallace Outstanding Educator Award from WSU College of Engineering. Previously he was held various positions at Wichita State including associate dean, graduate school (2008-2013), coordinator, college ABET affairs (2006-2008), associate dean, college of engineering (2004-2005), chair, industrial and manufacturing engineering department (1994-2004) and graduate coordinator of IME (1991-94, 1996-98, 2001-2004). Dr. Masud has engaged with various companies and governmental research centers including NASA Langley Research Center, VA, NASA/ASEE Summer Faculty Fellow (1991 and 1992), Boeing, Consulting Analyst, and Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research. He is member of Accreditation Review Council (2011-2014). Dr. Masud published book, book chapters, and numerous journal and conference papers. He is registered Professional Engineer at Kansas State. Dr. Masud is an IIE fellow. He received Ph.D. and M.S. in Industrial Engineering from Kansas State University, and B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology.
Panel Speaker I
Professor Eldon G. Caldwell Marin, Ph.D., Sc.D, Dr.Ed. – IEOM President, 2023-2025
Professor, Industrial Engineering Department
Engineering School
University of Costa Rica
San Jose, Costa Rica
Eldon Caldwell is full professor/Cathedraticus of the University of Costa Rica, Central America; member of the IEOM Society Academy of Fellows and member of the IEOM Society Global Council. Also, he has been recognized by the IEOM Society with the “Outstanding Service Award” for his career of over 30 years as an educator, researcher and promoter of development of industrial engineering and as “Distinguished Professor” by IEEE Computer Society, USA.
Dr. Caldwell earned his B.Sc. and Master degree in Industrial Engineering at University of Costa Rica and he earned a Master degree in Service Marketing, as well in Financial Analysis at Interamerican University of Puerto Rico; M.Sc. Health Management Systems at UNED, Costa Rica and a M.Sc. Operations Management at ITESM, México. Finally, he earned three doctoral degrees: 1-Ph.D. in C.Sc. / Industrial Engineering, Autonomous University of Central America; 2- Ph.D. (Sc.D.) in Robotics and Automation, University of Alicante, Spain; and 3-Ph.D. (Dr. Ed.) in Education at the University of Costa Rica, developing the “Theory of Socio-educational Exergy-Anergy and Entropy”.
He is author of many scientific articles and two books: “Marketing of Social Products & Services”, UCR Publications; and “Lean Manufacturing: Fundamentals and techniques for cycle time reduction”, Kaikaku Ins. Press, USA.
Dr. Caldwell served as Director of Industrial Engineering Department at Engineering School of University of Costa Rica, Operations Manager at MASECA, CA; Lean Manufacturing Project Manager at Eaton Corp. Costa Rica, General Manager at Quirós & Cía-Bandag Inc. and General Manager at Lean Systems Intl., USA. He has more than 30 years of experience as advisor and consultant in Operations Management, Lean Manufacturing and Lean Logistics at Interamerican Bank for Development, WHO, UN, World Wide Bank, Coca-Cola, Ministry of Health, Costa Rica, Honduras, Panamá, Costa Rican Institute for Electricity, RTC- Perú, Young Electrical Signs, Nevada, USA, AirCare Inc., Reno, Nevada, Plan International-Honduras, Bournes Co., DOLE Co. and many others. In addition, Dr. Caldwell currently serves as Director of the Central America Robotics and Industry 4.0 Challenge Contest (ROBOTIFEST) and General Manager at Kaikaku Institute Latin America.
Panel Speaker II
Dr. Erialdi Syahrial
Senior Lecturer
Faculty of Management
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Erialdi Syahrial is a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Management, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Malaysia. He had been appointed as a Visiting Researcher at Weber State University, Ogden, Utah, United States for research collaboration with Goddard School of Business and Economics. He obtained his Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical-Industrial) from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Malaysia and Master of Science (Manufacturing System Engineering) from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia. Furthermore, he was a section head, lead engineer and project leader at Research and Development (R&D) Department at PROTON, Malaysia’s first national car manufacturing company. He worked in the R&D department, PROTON for 11 years and the main responsibility was associated with after-sales service and customer satisfaction. He had also been appointed to perform after-sales service projects in United Kingdom, Italy, Korea, and Germany. He dealt with CEO, managing directors, customers, suppliers, and consultants to support after-sales service and customers. After 11 years of working at PROTON, he pursued his Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Japan and graduated with a Doctoral degree in Engineering from Keio University, Yokohama, Japan. He stayed in Japan for almost 8 years with several working experiences at different companies. Currently, as a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Management, his teaching and research focus on Quality Management, Project Management, Operation Management, Supply Chain Management, Research Methodology, Work Design/Ergonomics, Total Quality Management, Logistic Management, Business Mathematics and Human Resource Management. He also holds a university-level position, which is a Green Manager and at the same time a member of the Board of Engineers (BEM) Malaysia. He is currently active as a project member with the Faculty of Engineering (Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering) with a secured grant funded by the government of Malaysia. In 2022, he was a session chairperson during the 3rd Asia Pacific Conference on Industrial Engineering and Operations Management (IEOM 2022). He also presented his research during the 27th Annual Conference of the Production and Operations Management Society (POMS), organized by the Production and Operations Management Society, United States of America.
Panel Speaker III
Prof. ( Dr.) Devinder Kumar Banwet , FIE.
Vice Chancellor ( Founding )
University of Engineering & Management
Kolkata 700160, India
Former Professor Emeritus IIT Delhi
HOD DMS IITD, Professor HAG IITD
Chairman PEC of ASRP & Entrepreneurship Interdiscip. Programs
Prof. Devinder Kumar Banwet is Vice Chancellor Founding Retd. of University of Engineering & Management, Kolkata India. He is an Emeritus Professor of DMS IIT Delhi in the area of Operations & Supply Chain Management, Industrial Systems Engineering, Infrastructure Project Systems Management, TQM, DSS, Operations Research Applications, Prof Banwet is a graduate Mechanical Engineer, with Master of Industrial Engineering and a PhD (Industrial Engg /Production Management from IIT Delhi. Previously he served as a Vice Chancellor of the University of Engineering and Management at Kolkata. He has made significant contributions in publications related to Operations Management. His areas of research interest include Operations Management, Supply Chain and Logistics, Services Management, Project Management, IT-enabled DSS, Industrial Systems Engineering, Total Quality Management, Manufacturing Strategy, Technology Management, Materials Inventory Management, Facilities Planning, Operations Research Systems Modelling, Telecom Systems and Entrepreneurship Management.Prof Banwet has more than 40 years of academic teaching, research and administrative experience Prof Banwet has guided 35 + PhD projects:, has many research publications in reputed journals in India and abroad, Has had prestigious assignments at Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, University of Sorbonne at Paris, Asian Institute of Technology Bangkok; Awarded Best Engineer Award IE,India, PMI Distinguished Researcher Award, IEOM Award, Life Time Achievement Award of POMS India, ISTD India,, President of professional Societies Decision Science Institute of USA India Chapter,. Prof Banwet is on the Governing Board of many Professional Institutes of Technology,and Management, and usually Chairman of many NBA Nat Board of Accreditation team expert visits.