Sheeba Benny Wins “Electrical Engineer of the Year” at Construction Week Middle East Awards 2024

Championing Excellence and Female Leadership in Engineering

Sheeba Benny, a trailblazer in the field of electrical engineering, has been awarded the prestigious title of “Electrical Engineer of the Year” at the 20th annual Construction Week Middle East Awards 2024. The event, held at the iconic JW Marriott Marquis Dubai on November 21st, marked a significant milestone in the recognition of excellence and leadership within the Middle East’s construction and building services sectors.

This honor not only underscores Sheeba’s technical brilliance but also celebrates her unparalleled contribution to advancing female representation in an industry traditionally dominated by men. Emerging victorious from a pool of ten highly accomplished finalists, Sheeba’s win stands as a testament to her relentless dedication and decades-long impact on the profession.

A Legacy of Excellence

With over 30 years of experience in electrical engineering, Sheeba Benny has become a cornerstone of expertise in the Middle East. Her work has revolutionized key areas of the discipline, including low-voltage (LV) distribution systems, emergency standby power, and the integration of advanced building technologies.

“Engineering excellence requires both technical precision and innovative thinking,” Sheeba remarked in her acceptance speech. “This recognition reflects the evolving landscape of the industry and its growing inclusivity.”

Sheeba’s credentials are as extensive as her influence. She holds certifications as a LEED AP (BD+C), WELL AP, WiredScore AP, SmartScore AP, EDGE EXPERT, and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). These accreditations, coupled with her expertise, have positioned her as a go-to leader in healthcare, education, commercial, and hospitality projects.

A Year of Achievements

The award caps off an exceptional year for Sheeba, during which she was also shortlisted for the Electrical Engineer of the Year at the MEP Middle East Awards and the UAE Regional Electrical Engineer of the Year at the CIBSE Awards 2024. Her current pursuit of Chartered Engineer (CEng, UK) status through the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) further reflects her commitment to continual professional development.

Sheeba’s memberships in organizations such as the Institution of Engineering and Technology (MIET), the UAE Society of Engineers, and IEEE Women in Engineering reinforce her stature as a thought leader. Her dual accreditation by Dubai Municipality and Abu Dhabi Municipality is yet another feather in her cap, underscoring her technical leadership in the region.

Breaking Barriers, Setting Standards

Sheeba’s achievements are not merely personal milestones but a broader statement of progress for women in engineering. By consistently delivering engineering solutions that combine precision, sustainability, and innovation, she has paved the way for future generations of female engineers in the Middle East.

The Construction Week Middle East Awards, now in its 20th year, continues to be the region’s premier platform for recognizing excellence in construction and engineering. This year’s event brought together leading industry professionals, celebrating outstanding achievements across multiple categories and affirming the critical role of innovation in driving the sector forward.

A Vision for the Future

As Sheeba Benny reflects on this career-defining honor, her focus remains steadfast on pushing the boundaries of engineering excellence. “This is not just an individual recognition but a celebration of what is possible when expertise meets opportunity,” she stated. Her win not only elevates her personal achievements but also highlights the Middle East as a growing hub for world-class engineering and design innovation.

Sheeba Benny’s journey is a source of inspiration, not just for engineers but for anyone aiming to make a meaningful impact in their field. By breaking barriers and setting new standards, she embodies the values of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity.

For Sheeba, the best is yet to come—and for the industry, her leadership promises an exciting, transformative future.

This feature is part of the CEO Times Special Issue, celebrating leaders who are shaping the future of their industries.