Brief
Dubai engineering student Rifa Anwar attends ASHRAE 2026 conference in Texas
Rifa Anwar traveled to Austin after receiving an ASHRAE Student Travel Grant, highlighting opportunities for women in STEM.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Engineering student Rifa Anwar, a member of the ASHRAE Curtin Dubai Student Branch, travelled to Austin, Texas, to represent Curtin University Dubai and the ASHRAE Falcon Chapter UAE at the 2026 ASHRAE Annual Conference, Gulf News reported.
She received a Student Travel Grant from ASHRAE, which enabled her to attend the conference that gathered engineers, researchers and industry leaders from around the world. During her studies she participated in workshops, guest lectures, industry visits, networking events and volunteered at the ASHRAE Region‑at‑Large Chapters Regional Conference, experiences she says complemented her classroom learning.
"Representing my university and the ASHRAE Falcon Chapter UAE on an international stage gave me an understanding of the engineering industry that would not have been possible in a classroom," Rifa said.
Professor Chithirai Pon Selvan praised her growth, noting that involvement in professional societies and international conferences helps students develop confidence, leadership and the skills needed to become future engineering leaders.
Key facts
- Rifa Anwar represented Curtin University Dubai at the 2026 ASHRAE Annual Conference in Austin, Texas. (gulfnews.com)
- She received a Student Travel Grant from ASHRAE to attend the conference. (gulfnews.com)
- Professor Chithirai Pon Selvan highlighted her confidence and leadership growth through ASHRAE activities. (gulfnews.com)
Sources
- [1] gulfnews.com — originally reported as “Woman in STEM: Engineering student represents Dubai university in ASHRAE Conference”
