Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 8 December 2025 – Ms Mona Faisal Alahmadi is one of 88 DataVolt sponsored engineering students at EWA College, Saudi Arabia. She is currently studying a Diploma in Electrical Engineering.

As part of her training program, Mona was tasked with coming up with an original invention that solved a real-world business problem. Little did she know her project, ‘Autonomous Submarine for Inspection and Repair of Submerged Pipes’, would not only earn her accolades but lead her on a journey to compete on behalf of the Kingdom on the world stage.

In December 2025, Mona’s project was selected to be exhibited at the Seoul International Innovation Fair – South Korea, one of the world’s most prestigious innovation platforms worldwide. Not only did her original invention, which leverages AI and robotics to inspect and repair subsea pipelines, earn her a Bronze Medal at the Fair but a patent for the device has also been registered.

In this interview, Mona share mores about her prize-winning invention and how she hopes to set an example for women in STEM. 

Q: Why did you choose to pursue a career in engineering? How do you think industry can attract more women to the field of engineering?

A: I have always enjoyed problem solving and learning about technology and the way things work, so pursuing a Diploma in Engineering was a natural step. For me, it’s important to see more female role models in the industry, as well as ensuring inclusive work environments where women’s ideas are heard and valued. I hope my achievements help to inspire other young women in the field.

Q: What attracted you to join the DataVolt training program at EWA?

A: The program offered a clear learning pathway that matched my skillset and interests. Most importantly, the program’s strong industry collaboration with leading players such as DataVolt was a key attraction. I’ve wanted to work in the data center industry for a long time and this course offers real-world, practical skills I can use on the job from day one.

Q: Tell us more about your marine drone project.  

Put simply my invention combines AI and robotics to inspect and repair underwater pipelines. Subsea pipelines are a vital part of Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure and even the smallest leak can lead to a major problem, and it can be costly and dangerous to use divers to make repairs. I wanted my project to solve this genuine commercial problem and provide a faster, smarter and safer solution to subsea maintenance.

Specifically my invention uses AI to analyse images of the pipes to identify any cracks or leaks, and then uses a mechanical arm to inject a sealant to make the repair. This project was 2.5 months in the making combining design work, coding and prototype development; the process was not without its challenges but the staff at EWA supported me throughout to achieve success.

Q: How do you feel about representing EWA, DataVolt and the Kingdom at the Seoul International Innovation Fair – South Korea? How did you prepare for the event?

I feel very proud and honored to represent EWA, DataVolt and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at this prestigious event. This was also my first trip to South Korea and I was very excited to try out the local foods such as kimchi!

One of the key challenges that I faced in preparing for the Fair related to the coding of my invention; I was concerned that during transit to South Korea the device would lose its network connection and I would have to rewrite the code from scratch. Thankfully I found a way to address this and also worked to lighten the design of the device so it was easier to transport.

Q: What one thing would you want to share to others considering participating in one of DataVolt’s training programs?

For me, I have to highlight how this program gives you the opportunity to grow, learn and work alongside real industry experts. That’s not something many other students are able to say, and the technical and practical skills I am learning are invaluable for my career. 

Q: Finally, what are your ambitions for the future? Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

My ambition is to be a data center engineer and I am grateful for the opportunity DataVolt has given me to be able to graduate into one of the state of the art facilities they are currently building here in the Kingdom.

Ultimately, I want to leverage my skills and AI tools to ensure more efficient data center design and support Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation. I also hope I can serve as a role model to other Saudi women considering a career in this fast growing industry.

Finally, I would like to thank my family and friends who have helped me on this journey so far, as well as to EWA and DataVolt for supporting me to realize my potential. I look forward to what lies ahead!