Tajila Mullahkhel didn’t take a traditional path to becoming a chemical engineer. She moved through three countries before she entered college. Her journey, from Afghanistan to Pakistan to the United States, is one of quiet grit and focus.
Today, she works as a self-employed engineer, researcher, and educator based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her story is not loud or flashy, but it’s layered with real experience, technical work, teaching, motherhood, and deep cultural roots.
A Global Start
Tajila was born in Afghanistan. During her early childhood, her family relocated to Pakistan, where she grew up surrounded by tradition, discipline, and strong family bonds. As a teenager, she immigrated to the United States. The move was a big adjustment.
“Coming to the U.S. as a teen was tough,” she said. “I had to learn a whole new way of doing things, and fast. But school gave me something solid to focus on.”
She completed high school in the U.S. and enrolled at the University of Utah.
Engineering with Purpose
At the University of Utah, Tajila earned her degree in Chemical Engineering. She was drawn to the mix of science, structure, and creativity the field offered.
“I always wanted to understand how things worked. Chemical engineering gave me the tools to do that, and to build things that actually solve problems,” she said.
During her time there, she worked as a research assistant in biomimetics. Her work focused on studying natural systems and applying those ideas to material science. For example, she explored how surfaces like lotus leaves repel water and how those same principles could be used in engineering.
She also taught Intermediate Pashto II at the university, combining her language skills and cultural background to help students learn more than just grammar. “It wasn’t just about vocabulary. It was about helping people see into a different way of thinking,” she said.
Corporate Engineering and Real-World Skills
After graduating in 2013, Tajila joined Fresenius Medical Care North America. She spent almost three years there in two roles: first as a Central GMQ-NA Engineer, then as an Engineering Project Manager.
Her work at Fresenius focused on sustaining engineering and healthcare product development. She dealt with system performance, cross-functional team management, and technical troubleshooting in a high-stakes environment.
“In healthcare, the smallest details matter,” she explained. “I learned to slow down, ask the right questions, and trust the process.”
That experience taught her to lead without always being the loudest voice in the room. “I was often the one who just listened more. That helped me spot gaps others didn’t see.”
Starting Her Own Thing
In 2017, Tajila chose a different route. She became self-employed and started Azhar Enterprises, a small consulting practice that lets her work independently.
Her work now includes engineering consulting, writing, and occasional educational projects. It also gives her more time to focus on her family.
“I wanted flexibility. I wanted to work on my own terms,” she said. “Being self-employed has its challenges, but I’ve learned how to build my schedule around what matters most.”
She also launched her personal website, where she writes about engineering, sustainability, culture, and family life.
Life Outside of Work
Tajila is a mother of young children. She stays active by walking, jogging, and baking with her kids.
“I need movement every day,” she said. “Even just a walk around the block helps me reset.”
She also practices quiet philanthropy. While she doesn’t share details, she believes in giving back without making it public.
“Some things are better done quietly. When you give without being seen, you remember why you’re doing it,” she said.
Reflections and Lessons
Looking back, Tajila says patience is one of the most important things she’s learned.
“I used to think I had to do everything fast. Now I see the value of slowing down, being present, and doing things well,” she shared.
She’s also passionate about cross-disciplinary learning. “Even though I’m an engineer, I’ve learned a lot from teaching language and reading outside my field. It makes you a better thinker.”
Key Takeaways
- Self-employment gave Tajila control over her time and projects, aligning career with personal values.
- Academic research in biomimetics provided hands-on experience in applying nature-inspired solutions to engineering problems.
- Teaching Pashto helped her stay connected to her roots and empowered others to understand a different culture.
- Work in healthcare engineering taught her the value of attention to detail and teamwork under pressure.
Interview with Tajila Mullahkhel
What inspired you to study chemical engineering?
I’ve always been curious about how things work, how materials behave, how systems are built. Chemical engineering gave me a way to explore that curiosity and apply it to real-world problems. It’s a mix of science, creativity, and logic, which really spoke to me.
How did your background shape your approach to education and work?
Moving from Afghanistan to Pakistan and then to the U.S. taught me to adapt quickly. I didn’t always feel like I belonged, so I focused on learning. That mindset carried into everything I do, whether I’m teaching, managing a project, or solving a design issue. I value structure, but also empathy.
What was your experience like working at Fresenius Medical Care?
It was intense in a good way. I learned how small design decisions could have a big impact on patient safety. I managed engineering projects that had to meet high standards and work across departments. That’s where I learned the power of listening and asking the right questions before acting.
Why did you decide to become self-employed?
I wanted more flexibility, to raise my kids, manage my own schedule, and take on work that aligned with my interests. I also wanted to explore projects that combined both my technical background and my cultural experiences.
What keeps you grounded day-to-day?
Definitely movement, running, walking, even short stretches. Also, baking with my kids. It’s simple, but it brings me peace. That rhythm helps me reset and stay focused.
What’s something you believe in that others may not agree with?
That giving should be private. In a world where people share everything online, I think the most meaningful acts are the ones no one sees. It’s more about the intention than the attention.
