From Cambodia to Hilti North America: My Journey of Purpose and Community Impact

A Decade of Growth and Giving Back

It has been almost a decade since I first joined Hilti Asia IT Services as a fresh graduate in Malaysia in 2013. Today, I am proud to serve as an IT Business Analyst at Hilti North America, part of the global IT Finance and Controlling team. Looking back, I feel truly honored to be part of a company that not only leads the construction industry but also champions education, sustainability and social impact worldwide.

These efforts reflect the enduring vision of the Hilti Foundation, which is committed to driving sustainable development and empowering communities. Inspired by our founder, Martin Hilti, the company continues to foster a workplace culture that values personal growth, employee well-being and meaningful contributions to society.

My own journey began in Battambang province, Cambodia, where I grew up in a family with limited financial means and faced significant challenges in accessing quality education. Experiencing these hardships taught me the profound impact that even a small act of kindness can have on someone’s life. This realization has fueled my lifelong commitment to volunteerism and community service whether in Cambodia, Malaysia, the United Kingdom or the United States and wherever life has taken me.

Nak volunteering at the Food Bank with fellow Tulsa team members.

Global Volunteering and Mentorship Highlights

During my time at the University of Warwick (UK), where I earned a master’s degree through the Chevening Scholarship, I was honored as “a great ambassador for the university” for volunteering in local communities – supporting Warwick Technology Volunteers, organizing events and helping create the Canley community garden. I also contributed to CoderDojo and Wheels for All, which led to receiving the Chevening Volunteering Award in London in 2017.

In Cambodia, I advanced STEM education through STEMEOC, judging national competitions and supporting the Cambodia GREEN STEM Festival, which drew over 13,000 visitors and promoted eco-conscious innovation. My passion for empowering women in STEM grew through mentorship programs with Wedu Cambodia, YSEALI, AnitaB.org and others – mentoring young women leaders in Tech and STEM across Asia and the United States.

These efforts earned me nominations for the Women of the Future Awards Southeast Asia 2021 in Mentor category and Wedu Women’s Leadership Award 2025 for Flame of Solidarity Award category (Mentor). As Wedu Global shared, I’ve mentored for over six years, helping young women build confidence, leadership and clarity lighting the path for the next generation of women leaders in technology. Through it all, my message remains clear: Gender equity in STEM is essential, and I’m committed to helping the next generation lead with purpose.

Nak's award announcement for his nomination for Women of the Future Awards in 2021.

Why Being “Engaged Beyond Business” Matters

Since joining Hilti North America in 2023, I have continued to embrace opportunities to give back. I joined efforts with Tulsa Area United Way Day of Caring - LIFE Senior Services - Resident Cookout at Senior Apartment Community to bring joy and connection to residents at Brookhollow Landing. By hosting a cookout and creating a fun, welcoming atmosphere, we helped foster a sense of belonging and support. Volunteering through this initiative provided a meaningful opportunity to collaborate with other businesses, families and individuals alike – to drive positive change and strengthen the fabric of our community.

I was one of the first 25 donors for HNA United Way Giving Campaign 2025 when the Giving Campaign opened which embody this year’s theme: “Giving made real: Your generosity. Their hope.”  In 2023 & 2025, together with HNA IT Team based in Tulsa, we organized and participated in Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma. By volunteering at the Food Bank, our efforts directly support the mission of ensuring that nutritious food reaches those facing hunger in eastern Oklahoma. Every contribution helps bring hope and relief to our neighbors in need and fight against hunger.

In 2025, I became part of the “Mentor as You Grow” professional development commitment powered by Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) in HILT North America. This mentorship program empowers our members to unlock their full potential and achieve their career aspirations. We provide an opportunity for members to engage in a transformative year-long mentorship with inspiring leaders from across the organization to elevate our members’ Hilti experience, fostering a culture of growth, innovation and excellence.

The Legacy Cup Award is a powerful example of Hilti’s commitment to recognizing team members who exemplify compassion, empathy and a genuine desire to uplift others both within the workplace and in the broader community. This initiative aligns with our Engaged Beyond Business program and reinforces Hilti’s sustainability priorities.

Hilti’s Engaged Beyond Business program resonates deeply with me. Every act of service, big or small, can transform lives. I am grateful to be part of a company that empowers us to make a difference, and I look forward to continuing this journey of impact.

At Hilti, we believe that every act of service matters. Whether it’s volunteering at a local food bank, supporting educational initiatives or mentoring future leaders, your contribution can create lasting impact. Explore opportunities through our Engaged Beyond Business program and join hands with colleagues to build a better future together. Let’s continue to make Hilti not only a great place to work but also a force for good in our communities.

Explore Opportunities at Hilti

At Hilti, we recognize the value of a multilingual workforce on job sites and beyond. Ready to bring your language skills to a local and global stage? Explore exciting career opportunities across North America and around the world: Jobs | Hilti Careers