As we kick off the 2026 SAE Media Group® Women in Engineering: Rising Star Awards program this May, we’re spotlighting one of last year’s standout honorees — Sadiyah Sabah Chowdhury — a trailblazing automotive engineer whose work reflects the growing influence of women in engineering.
Chosen from a highly competitive field, her recognition underscores both technical excellence and leadership in a traditionally male‑dominated space. Her story sets the stage for the 2026 program as nominations prepare to open, inviting organizations worldwide to once again put forward the women engineers who are shaping the future of engineering innovation.
Sadiyah Sabah Chowdhury
Technical Strategy & Integration- Senior Technical Specialist
Cummins, Inc.
Columbus, Indiana
Education: Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering
Experience:
Sabah Chowdhury is a Senior Technical Specialist in Technical Strategy & Integration at Cummins, where she architects AI-enabled modeling strategies and simulation workflows that drive digital transformation across the product development lifecycle for next-gen, low- and zero-emission powertrains. Sabah previously led modeling and integration for six clean-sheet engine programs meeting EPA 27 and EURO VII compliance, powering on- and off-highway vehicles in North America and Europe. She now focuses on scaling intelligent automation frameworks for advanced fuel technologies across on-and off-highway platforms. She also leads Cummins Women in Technology initiatives, mentoring peers and building pathways for women to lead in the evolving transportation landscape.
What’s the most exciting part of your work?
The most exciting part of my work is watching an idea — grounded in physics, modeling, or data — turn into something real. Whether it's developing modeling methods to reduce engine oil consumption or building AI-integrated simulation workflows that change how we design and validate powertrain systems, it's rewarding to see that work translate into cleaner, more efficient technologies on the road. I especially enjoy working at the intersection of engineering and strategy, where technical decisions have a long-term impact on both products and development processes.
What is one major challenge you’ve faced in your career and how did you overcome it?
I’ve often encountered unspoken bias — being underestimated before I’ve even started. I’ve learned not to internalize it, but to lead with consistency, technical rigor, and empathy. That approach has helped me build trust, grow cross-functional influence, and create space for others who’ve felt overlooked. I stay grounded in my values and focus on designing inclusive systems where diverse voices are heard. Overcoming bias isn’t just about resilience — it’s about shaping environments where everyone can lead as their full self. Over time, that’s led to stronger collaboration, sharper thinking, and more resilient solutions. That’s the kind of leadership I try to model every day.
What advice do you have for young women engineers aspiring to be leaders?
Leadership is a journey. It won’t be a straight line. There will be twists and turns, but if you stay rooted in your values, your impact will grow. Be curious. Listen deeply. Show up for others. Let go of what you can’t control and give yourself permission to lead in your own way. And above all, be audaciously true to yourself. That kind of authenticity is how you rise, and how you help others rise with you.
Can you describe a pivotal moment in your career that significantly impacted your trajectory?
A turning point came during my time at Michigan State, when I joined the Energy & Automotive Research Lab. Until then, my research had focused on materials science and biomechanics. That’s when I was first exposed to powertrain and engine systems — and realized how my work could translate into real-world impact. Modeling and systems thinking became tools to solve industry challenges, not just academic ones. That early experience laid the foundation for how I approach AI and simulation strategies at Cummins — grounded in applied problem solving and cross-disciplinary thinking.
How do you balance technical expertise with leadership responsibilities in your role?
For me, technical depth and leadership go hand in hand. I lead by solving meaningful problems — with people who bring different strengths across functions, cultures, and time zones. Whether I’m building simulation strategies or mentoring early-career engineers, it’s about clarity, listening, and connecting the dots across teams. You don’t need a title to lead — just purpose, trust, and the discipline to show up. The best work happens when you combine rigor with empathy and create space for others to grow.
What role has mentorship played in your career, and how do you pay it forward?
I’ve been lucky to have mentors who showed up at the right moments — sometimes to challenge me, sometimes to listen without judgment. A few recognized my strengths before I fully saw them myself. That stayed with me. I try to pass that on — sometimes through formal mentoring, sometimes just by being present when someone needs a nudge. We don’t grow alone and we all need someone in our corner. I try to be that person I once needed.
How do you stay motivated and continue to grow?
I’m naturally curious and love learning — especially when I can apply what I learn to real-world problems. I get energy from figuring things out and seeing my work create tangible results. That keeps the spark alive. Growth isn’t always comfortable, but I’ve learned to lean into the hard parts too. Staying grounded in purpose, surrounding myself with people who stretch my thinking, and choosing to grow even when it’s messy — that's how I stay motivated.
Nominations for 2026 Rising Star Awards will open on May 1. Watch this space for more info.
