1. How did you first get interested in a career in engineering?
Since a young age, it was clear to me that I wanted to study in an engineering field since my strengths were always focused on mathematics, physics and chemistry. I was always looking to challenge my critical thinking and help other people. I realized in high school that an engineering major would give me the opportunities and tools to be a leader, help people and be part of the advances in technology that surround us every day. Additionally, both of my parents are also engineers, which gave me a good reference of what the field would be like, and how much, the products being developed, can change and improve people’s lives.
2. Did you have a mentor/role model? How did they help you?
My main mentor and inspiration has always been my mother. She, like me, is also an industrial and systems engineer. Since young age, she has been my role model. She has inspired me to fight for my dreams no matter what, and has supported me in all my decisions. This has brought me to where I am at today. I left Colombia when I was 17 years old to pursue my dream of studying Industrial engineering, while playing tennis with a full-scholarship in the United States. After graduating with honors and working for 4 years, I can say I am where I want to be. I am Project Manager at ABB, one of the biggest engineering companies in the world, who daily innovates and develops products that help people. There have been times where I wanted to give up due to difficult situations, but I always keep going, because as my mom says: “Perseverance is power.” Having a mentor helps you choosing your path, it is having someone give you advice to confront new and different situations you haven’t had to deal with before and it is someone that can teach you things every day.
3. As a woman, what are some of the unique challenges you have faced in this career field and how did you overcome them?
During this 4 years of my professional career, approximately 90% of my coworkers, suppliers and clients have been in the industry for 25+ years. This has given me many opportunities to learn a lot from them. It has pushed me to never be afraid to ask questions, voice my opinion and participate in any topic that is being discussed. On the other hand, there have been times at work where I have felt oppressed for being a young Latina woman working in a male-dominated industry. But, I have come to understand these are my most powerful assets because I am able to bring a different point of view and a different perspective to the table. Every time I have been in these situations, I speak up, but I also understand that we are in a transition phase in history right now. Slowly women are starting to be more interested in the engineering industry, and every successful woman is inspiring and showing the world, that we are capable of anything we want to accomplish.
4. What can companies do to attract more women engineers?
I believe there are three main things that will help companies attract women engineers.
Mentorship programs: As a women engineer, I can certainly say that having a mentor at your company is an extremely effective way to attract and maintain women engineers. When you feel your company cares about your growth, and supports you with a mentor to make sure you are always improving and growing, you will most likely want to stay in this company.
Educating all employees: I believe it is extremely important to make sure all employees are aware of stereotypes and microinequities. Women should always feel comfortable in the workplace. Respect should be a priority and any type of discrimination should never be accepted.
Work flexibility: Including maternity leave benefits.
5. What advice would you give to girls and young women considering a career in engineering?
My advice would be: If you are interested in this path: go for it! There are so many opportunities and so many industries, you will never regret it. You need to be a little stubborn when it comes to your goals. Do not listen to anyone telling you it will be “too hard” or that “you will not make it.” If this is what you want, do not overthink it! Just go get it! You are smart, strong and capable of accomplishing anything you want.
6. Is there anything else you would like to share or add?
I feel honored and proud to be a woman engineer. It is one of the best decisions that I have made. I am sure women representation will keep growing, and future generations will have more support and encourage to be in this field. Sadly, nowadays we still see various issues that still bother us, such us gender unfairness and harassment. Nevertheless, all women engineers are showing the world right now that we are as capable as anyone else to have tech, engineering and manager positions throughout different industries. To all women engineers: Do not be scared to speak up, work hard for your dreams and remember that you are now a role model for future generations!
