A Childhood Dream

My dream from childhood was to be an engineer. But as a new graduate eager to start earning my own money, I was quick to take a job of a financial institution in Lagos. The job, however, offered no excitement. All through my two years at the bank, my desire for engineering never waned. 

A golden opportunity presented itself in 2010 when I learnt of the Honeywell Excellence Programme. I applied, went through the rigorous recruitment process and was successful. I can still remember how I screamed with excitement when I was called to pick up my appointment letter; finally, I had been liberated from the shackles of the financial institution.

With enthusiasm and determination, I went through the one-year Honeywell Excellence Programme, which was like running an MBA programme. I was fulfilled when I emerged top in the graduating set. As I shook the hand of the Chairman, Dr Oba Otudeko, during the graduation ceremony, I knew I had made the right decision by accepting the offer from Honeywell Group. Silently, I said to myself, “Chidimma, someday, you will be great like your Chairman”. 

Fulfilling the Dream

It has been a steady climb up the ladder for the past 8 years as the only female in the Engineering Department of Pavilion Technology Limited, a security services organisation and a member of the Honeywell Group. I grew from a technician to my current role as the Engineering Manager. I have acquired vast knowledge ranging from technical skills to managerial skills and other soft skills. There has been opportunities for inter company projects that have served to broaden my horizon. I believe Honeywell Group shaped me into the person I am today and has equally positioned me for all-round career excellence.

Honeywell Group is like a mother hen that protects and cares for its chicks, nurturing them to become the best they can be. It is one organisation that is not only interested in what you can bring to the table but also interested in how you can become a better individual. 

I have not suffered discrimination on the grounds of being female, neither have I been accorded any special treatment. Rather, I have been evaluated on the strength of my work and contributions. The organisation, recognising the merit of my contributions, has placed immense faith in me by promoting me to Engineering Manager where I lead a team of system engineers and technicians in a male dominated industry. 

Indeed, by placing no restrictions on me, Honeywell Group has afforded me the opportunity to live my dream.