Aspire, a Jordan-based company, has joined the Astek Group as a subsidiary to strengthen its global offshore delivery capabilities and accelerate its expansion in the Middle East.
A Conversation with Ghassan Al Mousa
“I joined Aspire because, at the time, I’d heard a lot of good things about it. I had a friend who worked on the web content team here, and he told me about the high level of employee recognition and the healthy work environment. Those two things really encouraged me to apply.”
Meet Ghassan Al Mousa, a quality analyst, amateur writer, and salsa and tango dancer.
Why did you choose computer science?
I chose computer science for both personal and professional reasons. I studied computer science because it was the most promising field in Jordan at the time—and it still is. However, my career path at Aspire over the years hasn’t always been strictly focused on pure computer science.
What are you particularly passionate about in your field?
What excites me are the constant and limitless new opportunities that are always available, as well as the new technologies that are constantly emerging.
Why Aspire?
I joined Aspire because I had heard so many good things about the company. A friend who works on the web content team told me about the company’s appreciation for its employees and its healthy work environment. Those two factors were key in my decision to apply.
What does your typical day look like?
I wake up and, usually, get ready pretty quickly so I can head straight to work. I start with production tests, then run “smoke tests” on all the websites I’m responsible for to make sure they’re working properly. Then, I handle routine tasks and operational tickets. 70% of the time, I go out with my friends after work to hang out and grab a bite to eat. The remaining 30% is spent either at dance studios practicing Latin and ballroom dancing, or playing video games.
What do you appreciate most about the company?
There are many things, but what I appreciate most is Aspire’s long-term commitment to its employees. They don’t treat employees like commodities, unlike most companies. Many people have been here for a very long time, so we consider this place our second home. Aspire values people who give their best; we’re seen as an excellent long-term investment. Management has a very clear vision for the future; they understand that things are changing and are ready to adapt.
What’s your favorite movie or TV show?
It might sound strange, but I have two: *The Matrix* and *The Notebook*—very contradictory, I know! My favorite TV show is *House*.
What do you do in your free time?
On the weekends, if I’m not relaxing at home, I take part in various activities like Toastmasters, study to develop my personal skills, write stories, or hang out with friends. I also dance whenever I can.
What was your path to your current role at Aspire?
When I joined Aspire 12 years ago, I started as a customer support representative on a 2-month temporary contract. After that, I was offered a permanent position, and a year later, I became a customer support supervisor. The following year, I was given the opportunity to work as a business analyst with a new client in Texas for about two years. I then returned to customer support as a team leader. In 2011, I had the opportunity to build a new team from the ground up for a project called Telecom Expense Management. The team started with four people, including myself, and grew to 23. I led this project until 2018, when I decided to refresh my IT skills by transitioning to a role as a quality analyst, which I’ve thoroughly enjoyed so far.
Is
there anything that would surprise your coworkers?
Besides the fact that I dance salsa and tango, I love listening to horror stories.
If you were an animal, what would you be and why?
An eagle, because it’s known for its agility and speed. In some cultures, it’s said to soar above problems and rise above challenges. I identify a lot with the eagle.
You have 10 seconds to impress someone. What do you say to them?
I can cook, sing, and dance… are you impressed yet?
What is your favorite song or singer?
It’s difficult for the song, but I love Frank Sinatra and Michael Bublé.
What’s one thing you want to do before it’s too late?
I want to travel to the Amazon rainforest. I love nature and traveling. The Amazon is the perfect place to completely lose yourself. The idea of spending a month or two there is very tempting—as long as I stay alive and don’t get killed!
Is there a particular moment in your career that stands out?
The period between 2011 and 2014 was a time of tremendous growth for me and for the company, especially within my team.
What are your ambitions for Aspire?
I hope to launch a new team with a new client so that both Aspire and the client can benefit even more.
If a genie granted you three wishes, what would they be?
1- To have 1 billion U.S. dollars.
2- To go on an astronomical journey and visit space.
3- To produce a movie that becomes a huge hit (that’s a personal dream).
What is your greatest personal achievement?
Over the past three years, I’ve lost 130 kg, going from being severely obese to being almost slim. It has improved every aspect of my life, and I’m very proud of myself.
What is your greatest professional achievement?
Managing the Telecom Expense Management department.
What superpower would you like to have?
Telekinesis—the ability to move or manipulate objects from a distance—seems pretty cool.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life?
Pizza, all kinds, but if I had to pick just one, I’d go with the “4 Seasons”—it’s my favorite.
What’s your philosophy on life?
Life will hit you hard, but you’ll never be able to hit back as hard as it does. Strength doesn’t lie in your ability to strike hard, but in your ability to take the blows and keep moving forward.
