Ahmed's work involves research in micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS), a specialized area of microchip technology that uses both the electrical and mechanical properties of silicon chips. MEMS serves as a core technology that can combine several building automation system functions, such as sensing, wireless communication, processing, and power management.

Ahmed joined Siemens in 1988, and has applied for four separate patents related to his research team's current project. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His doctoral dissertation, completed in 1996, addressed the application of artificial intelligence for controlling laboratory HVAC systems.