Dr. Arielle Miller

Hey there! 👋 I'm currently rocking the role of a technical advisor in the nuclear industry, passionately advocating for nuclear energy across the U.S. I engage with folks from federal, state, and local governments, teaming up with cool non-government organizations (NGOs) that share the love for nuclear and clean energy. In the midst of this, I'm all about turning the tide on climate change, firmly believing that nuclear energy can play a powerhouse role in our fight against it! 💪

I also wear my professor hat at Marymount University and the University of the District of Columbia, diving into the exciting worlds of Physics and Mechanical Engineering. I absolutely love teaching because there's nothing more rewarding than helping students through their STEM journey. I'm all about guiding them to realize that they can conquer even the toughest and most complicated aspects of the work.

And because demystifying STEM is my passion, I'm on a mission to guide incredible women through their PhD journeys in STEM fields. To make things even more awesome, I'm especially passionate about encouraging young girls and women to pursue these fields. Oh, and by the way, you can ask me anything about nuclear—I love diving into conversations about neutrons, reactors, and all the amazing things that make nuclear energy a game-changer. Plus, if you're curious about how to do research, I'm your person! Let's chat and unravel the mysteries of the atomic world! 🌐🔬

I fell head over heels for engineering because, from the get-go, I've had this incredible love affair with science and the sheer joy of unraveling how things tick. It's like solving puzzles every day, and I knew I was not just good at it, but destined for an amazing and meaningful career.

Being an avid environmentalist, I see engineering, especially nuclear engineering, as a superhero cape for the planet. It's not just about understanding the world; it's about making it better. I truly believe that through nuclear engineering, we can be champions in the fight against carbon emissions, paving the way for a green energy utopia in the 21st century.

So, why engineering? It's the gateway to turning dreams into reality, making a positive impact, and being part of a movement that's shaping the future. And let me tell you, the journey is as thrilling as the destination! 🌟💚✨

I got my undergraduate degree in Physics from Northwestern University (2003).  I got my master's in Nuclear Engineering from North Carolina State University (2014).  I received my PhD Candidate in Mechanical Engineering at Howard University (2021) and my research focuses on proton radiation damage of 3D printed polymers.

In my previous roles, my job was like being a detective, but for nuclear science! I'd dive into all sorts of documents, both techy and operational, making sure everything was super safe when it came to nuclear criticality. And you know what? I even got to put on my explorer hat and visit the field to see how these safety measures worked in real-life nuclear plants!

Now, my days are like a fantastic mix of meetings and adventures. I get to chat with awesome folks from nuclear companies and those who are super interested in the world of nuclear wonders. It's like unlocking secret codes! I spend time understanding all the rules and regulations around nuclear stuff and helping make changes that can bring new nuclear reactors to life. 🚀

But that's not all—I'm also a wordsmith! I write cool white papers and other documents that guide the industry and help shape the rules. It's like being a storyteller for the future of nuclear science. And, I'm not stuck behind a desk all the time—I'm out there attending conferences and meeting with regular people trying to understand if nuclear is right for them.

So, imagine a day filled with solving mysteries, having important talks, and being part of shaping the future. That's my typical day, and let me tell you, it's a STEM-tastic adventure! 🌟🔬💡

Being an engineer is like having a backstage pass to a world of endless possibilities! The best part? I get to wear so many hats. First and foremost, I'm an advocate for nuclear, shaping the future of our energy landscape and aiming to make a positive dent in the climate change challenge.

But that's just the beginning—I'm also a wordsmith, weaving stories through my writing, a communicator, breaking down complex ideas, a researcher, diving into the depths of knowledge, a teacher, guiding the next generation of STEM enthusiasts, and a creator. Whether it's making engaging YouTube videos or designing experiments that push the boundaries of what's possible, I love crafting solutions that make a real impact.

And here's the cherry on top: being an engineer opens the door to a life of flexibility and fulfillment. I get to explore the world, enjoy a comfortable living, and indulge in my passions outside of work—whether it's taking vacations, diving into books, spending time with my furry friends, or relishing in the coziness of my fantastic apartment. Every bit of this amazing journey can be traced back to my decision to become an engineer. It's not just a career—it's a gateway to a life filled with diverse experiences and endless joys! 🚀📚🌍

One of the proudest moments in my career was steering a nuclear power plant into action after earning my qualification in the Navy. The satisfaction of putting my knowledge to work was beyond words.

Equally, I take immense pride in the choice to launch my own business, dedicated to empowering fellow women in their pursuit of PhDs. Advocating for myself in the face of gender bias, both in the workplace and academia, stands out as a pivotal achievement. But what truly fills my heart is extending that advocacy to my fellow female engineers. I've made it a point to work tirelessly, ensuring mentorship, advocacy, and support for women because, for me, success isn't enough unless every aspiring woman engineer finds success in a welcoming and supportive environment. It's not just about my journey; it's about creating a path where every woman with a dream in engineering can thrive. 🌟💪🚀

I've encountered my share of challenges, especially in bridging the communication gap with those outside my discipline. It pushed me to explore new communication techniques, actively listening to understand what people are seeking from my explanations.

Additionally, facing gender and racial bias has been a journey. I've learned to navigate these challenges without diminishing my own value or internalizing unwarranted criticisms. Rather than letting these obstacles define me, I've embraced a mission: to foster a more inclusive STEM environment. My goal is to make STEM not just welcoming but thriving for women, particularly women of color, and people of color. It's about breaking down barriers and ensuring that everyone has an equal and supportive place in the world of STEM. 💪🌐🌈

I'm the proud older sister in a two-daughter New York family, and here's a fun twist—I'm the lone engineer among us! I hold the honor of being the first in my family to step onto the college scene.

Now, let me introduce you to the furry joy in my life—Burt and Tanya. Burt, my Pocket Pitt, is a perpetual puppy, forever on the lookout for something to chew (never his toys, of course). But, he's not just a mischief-maker; he's an expert cuddler and a total velcro dog. Tanya, on the other paw, looks like a Dingo and is the sneakiest little pet-getter during our walks. She's got a thing for tennis balls and indulges in some nibbling on her mischievous brother, Burt. Together, they've got this adorable dynamic of love and playful antics that fill my home with joy. 🐾💕

In the realm of my career dreams, I envision transforming my business into a research haven for women—a space where they can delve into their research with unparalleled support. It's a vision fueled by the desire to create a haven that I, myself, have never had and, to my knowledge, doesn't yet exist. I aspire to build a space that empowers and uplifts women in their research journeys.

Zooming into the canvas of life, my dreams involve continuing to explore the wonders of the world through travel. I crave days filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with friends. As a self-proclaimed animal enthusiast, my dream is to share my life with as many dogs and other furry friends as I can lovingly handle. And, of course, there's a vision of a cozy home with a yard—a sanctuary where dreams are nurtured and joy finds a constant place to flourish. 🏡✨🌍

The guiding stars in my life have undoubtedly been my parents, their influence shaping my choices. Their constant encouragement echoed the importance of independence and the power of education. My mother, a beacon of independence, taught me firsthand what it meant to be a strong, self-reliant woman. Meanwhile, my father's unwavering support for my mother's career and independence set a profound example, encouraging me to be that woman.

In the tapestry of inspiration, my friends are the vibrant threads, fighting daily for the lives and careers they envision. Their resilience fuels my own determination.

And then, there's Issa Rae, a true luminary. Her creation of a space for black creatives and actors serves as a guiding light. As I dream about crafting the research haven, she's the muse in my mind—a testament to the transformative power of creating spaces where dreams can flourish. It's a collective inspiration—from family to friends and trailblazers—that propels me forward. 🌟👩‍👩‍👧‍👧🎬

Embarking on the journey to become an engineer is an exciting adventure, not just a destination. It's crucial to embrace the process of learning, asking questions, and challenging yourself. Don't be disheartened if you don't have all the answers right away; trust in your ability to learn and believe in what you already know.

Remember, you're not like anyone else in your field, and that's not just okay—it's fantastic! Your unique perspective is a valuable asset to the engineering community. Instead of trying to fit into a predetermined mold, own your individuality proudly. Recognize that no one thinks quite like you, and that's your superpower. You don't need to emulate your male counterparts; you need to be authentically yourself. Your distinct way of thinking and acting is what sets you apart and makes a positive impact on the world of engineering. Embrace it! 💪🌟🔧

While I may not have traditional hobbies, I find joy in a few things that light up my free time. Sci-fi movies are my go-to for relaxation and entertainment. Hanging out with friends is a cherished pastime, creating moments filled with laughter and camaraderie.

One of my favorite activities is working on my home through DIY projects. There's something immensely satisfying about creating and enhancing spaces. However, my ultimate passion lies in research. In those moments of leisure, you'll likely find me either experimenting in my kitchen or at the lab, diving into the intricacies of different experiments.

A recent addition to my interests is collecting plants. There's a unique joy in nurturing and keeping them alive. Each plant adds a touch of greenery to my surroundings, making it a delightful and rewarding hobby. In a nutshell, my "hobbies" are a blend of cinematic escapades, DIY adventures, and the fascinating world of research and experimentation. 🎥🔨🌱