Sarah Bahnoo, an assistant project manager here at ZELUS, has a knack for precision. When she’s not working with the team to deliver precise as-builts, you might find her at an archery range perfecting her longbow shot –– the most challenging of archery bows to master.
Sarah grew up in the United Arab Emirates, where she studied architecture at the University of Sharjah, and after being introduced to the world of technology-driven architecture and construction, she found her passion for exploring this cutting-edge area of building and design. She joined the team at ZELUS more than three years ago, and her passion for technology and construction grows deeper by the day.
What’s your role at ZELUS?
I’m an assistant project manager in the existing condition department.
We have two departments: virtual design construction and existing conditions. The existing conditions department specializes in the creation of 2d and 3d as-builts that are a derivative of laser scanning. In my role, I essentially oversee projects and help the project managers deliver client-ready files.
What’s been your favorite project at ZELUS and why?
I don’t have one favorite project. I think all the projects are amazing. Every project has a different challenge, and that’s helped me gain the experience and the skills I have today. What makes all projects special is the people –– the team members I work with every day.
What’s been the most valuable thing you’ve learned since joining ZELUS?
Aside from the knowledge, skills and experience, if you have open communication, a great team spirit and you’re willing to take chances, then you always have success.
What drew you to this industry?
I used to think that conventional construction was all there was. I didn’t have any idea about point clouds and laser-scanning technology. What drew me in is the fascinating integration between technology and construction.
Whether you’re doing existing conditions or you’re applying BIM technology, the integration of the technology throughout the construction process, and how it impacts the project, is what fascinates me. Because technology is always advancing, you’re always learning. It’s not something that’s been done, so it’s a learning experience –– one that keeps me discovering and searching every day.
What is your backstory? What were you doing before you arrived at ZELUS?
I lived in the United Arab Emirates for about 20 years. I got my bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering there. When I graduated, the construction industry was very competitive. They wanted candidates who had a lot of experience, and being a fresh graduate, I didn’t have that.
I started working with my father in the HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) industry. That was just for a while to get hands-on experience. I also volunteered with a consultancy engineering company. Then, we came to the United States, and that’s when I joined ZELUS.
What’s one thing you hope to achieve in the next year?
Working in the project management business, I’ve developed a fascination for the process and principles around it. My goal is to pursue my PMP (professional project management) certification, which I am working on at the moment.