Introduction
“A successful career combines knowledge, skills, experience—and most importantly, passion.”
Nado Abi-Khattar’s professional journey is anything but conventional. Since her early years, Nado had a natural talent for solving problems. That passion led her to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering at Penn State University, where she excelled and developed a love for innovation.
Overcoming Barriers
Entering the engineering field 20 years ago was a significant challenge, especially as a woman. Reflecting on that time, Nado shares:
“My biggest challenge initially was being a female in the engineering field. I overcame this with self-awareness and reflection, which helped me identify and leverage my strengths. Over time, I built a solid performance and reputation that eliminated others’ doubts in my abilities.”
Global Career Moves
After graduating, Nado started her career as a Project Engineer in Philadelphia. In 2007, her career took an exciting turn when she was offered a position at the American University of Sharjah in the UAE. Working in Dubai on engineering and academic projects with a diverse, multinational team was a transformative experience. She embraced the cultural shift and valued the fresh perspectives her colleagues brought to the table.
It was during this time that Nado discovered her deeper passion—not just for technology, but for understanding the people behind it. That realization pushed her to pursue a Master’s in Psychology while working in Texas.
From Engineer to Educator
This unique combination of technical knowledge and psychological insight opened new doors. Nado became an Apple Trainer, where she merged her understanding of engineering with human behavior. Her ability to bridge these two worlds made her an invaluable resource for organizations aiming to boost their training and development efforts.
Returning Home to Make an Impact
After successful chapters in the U.S. and UAE, Nado returned to Beirut, drawn by her love for her homeland. She joined SABIS® Educational Services, a global network operating in 21 countries across five continents. As a Senior Professional Development Specialist, she now develops and delivers training programs that help employees grow, perform, and thrive.
Her diverse background has allowed her to design learning experiences grounded in deep needs analysis, the latest industry trends, and practical skills. Nado’s work at SABIS® has been just as transformative for her as it has been for those she mentors. Through every challenge, she has learned the importance of adaptability, resilience, and continuous growth.
Nado's Message to Others
Nado’s journey reminds us that success doesn’t have to follow a straight line. Whether you’re changing careers, moving across continents, or shifting disciplines, every experience adds value.
“Your undergraduate major should not define the rest of your career. Embrace diverse experiences. A successful career balances knowledge, skills, experience, and most importantly passion.”