jordan pulse -

By Dr Loay Bwa’neh
How uplifting it is for Jordan to welcome home its scholars and scientists, celebrating their achievements after long journeys of effort and perseverance. Academic institutions, led by University of Jordan, take pride in these figures, who in turn give back by sharing global experience with national universities in appreciation of what homeland once gave them.
This is case with Dr Omar Hattamleh, renowned Jordanian thinker and global scientific figure, son of University of Jordan and of Hashemite Jordan, originally from Al Hisn in northern Jordan. Dr Hattamleh launched series of lectures and seminars for students and faculty, transferring international experience and engaging in guidance and dialogue. University of Jordan hosted him, followed by Yarmouk University, Amman Arab University and Princess Sumaya University for Technology, as knowledge-sharing journey continues with institutions seeking advancement, innovation and stronger position in labour market.
Dr Omar Hattamleh, currently working at US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), stands as living model of Jordanian success. His journey represents achievement for Jordan as state and education system, not only personal success. Path began in lecture halls and laboratories of University of Jordan, culminating in world’s most prominent space research centres at NASA. Story reflects advanced standards of Jordanian universities in education and preparation, as such global institutions would not candidates lacking strong qualification.
After completing bachelor degree at University of Jordan, Hattamleh pursued PhD in mechanical engineering at University of South Carolina. He then served as senior engineer at Johnson Space Center between 1997 and 2004, research scientist from 2005 to 2010, director of advanced development and technology relations from 2011 to 2014, deputy chief scientist from 2014 to 2015, executive director of innovation from 2015 to 2020, director of technology integration from 2020 to 2023, and since 2023 senior executive advisor for artificial intelligence and innovation at NASA.
In recognition of his contributions, University of Jordan named one of engineering faculty halls after him, with appreciation to university president Prof Nadhir Obeidat and dean of engineering. This was not first national honour. In 2024, His Majesty King Abdullah II awarded Dr Hattamleh Silver Jubilee Medal among distinguished figures from Irbid governorate. Medal was received on his behalf by his father Dr Mohammad Abduh Hattamleh, professor of Andalusian history at University of Jordan.
During his visits, Prof Hattamleh, one of global leaders in artificial intelligence thought, addressed students and academics, sharing insights from his role at NASA. His lectures highlighted AI as strategic tool shaping future of education, economy, medicine and labour market, no longer technological luxury but cornerstone of innovation. He stressed importance of youth energy as true driver of future, and argued AI opens new job opportunities rather than eliminating them. He also proposed ideas enabling Jordan to secure advanced position in AI-based technology markets and encouraged students towards successful start-ups.
Jordanian success stories such as this one are many and ongoing. They enhance country’s global reputation, particularly scientific standing. Jordan remains rich in talent at home and abroad. With investment in these capabilities, Jordan continues as inclusive homeland nurturing excellence.