“The Girl by the Window”: 25 Years of Growth, Memories and Dedication at EID

From getting lost on her first day to witnessing the transition from escudos to euros, Célia Dias reflects on 25 years of career, people and transformation at EID.

Some professional journeys are measured in years. Others are measured in stories, people and memories that end up shaping a lifetime.

When Célia Dias joined EID 25 years ago, she never imagined she would build a long and solid career within the company – nor that her first challenge would simply be finding her way back after going to the bathroom.

“I got lost on my first day,” she recalls, laughing. “EID felt like a maze. When I tried to get back, I had no idea where the Accounting department was anymore, so I had to ask for directions.”

The company looked very different back then. The facilities, the working environment and even the day-to-day dynamics have evolved significantly over the years. But amidst all the changes, one thing remained particularly memorable for Célia: the people.

“Even though everything looked very different, there was an incredible sense of teamwork. We were fewer people, everyone knew each other and there was a real family spirit. If someone needed help, we stayed late together to get things done.”

“The Girl by the Window”

Working in Accounting, the same area she remains part of today, Célia built her career through consistency, continuous learning and a strong sense of responsibility.

She joined EID as a trainee and gradually progressed within the department, witnessing major transformations in processes, tools and even currency.

“When I joined, we were still working with escudos. I clearly remember attending training sessions about the transition to the euro – it’s funny to think about that today.”

Yet one professional memory still stands out vividly.

At the time, monthly financial closings were supported directly by an administrator who had a rather distinctive way of calling the team.

“He would shout, ‘The girl by the window!’ – that was me – and there I went. Then he would call ‘the girl by the door’, which was my colleague. That’s how we closed the monthly accounts,” she says with a smile.

Today, the expression still makes her laugh: a snapshot of a very different era at EID.

Growing alongside EID

Over the past two and a half decades, Célia has witnessed profound transformations across the company, from facilities and people to leadership styles and ways of working.

But beyond organisational change, what stands out most is her own personal growth.

“I joined EID in my twenties and grew tremendously here, in many ways. I built a solid career, learned so much and feel proud to be part of this story. In the end, I stayed because I enjoyed what I did, it was close to home and I genuinely felt good here!”

Today, seeing EID represented internationally and participating in major defence events brings a strong sense of pride.

“When I see the interviews we give or the international exhibitions we attend, I realise how much the company has grown. It makes me proud. I wear the EID shirt with pride.”

A place to learn and grow

For those starting their careers at EID, Célia’s advice is simple: make the most of the opportunity.

“EID is a great school. There is so much to learn, so many different areas and experienced people around you. If you want to learn and grow, you can absolutely do that here.”

And if she had to summarise the last 25 years in just a few words? Her answer comes without hesitation: “Personal growth.”