What I Do Though I am officially retired, I still team teach a graduate course at MIT on Sustainable Energy and participate in a variety of professional activities relating to engineering and environmental issues.
Why Engineering? I wanted a profession that would allow lots of variety and real-world problem solving.
School Days Got a SB in Chemical Engineering at MIT. After working for 6 years after graduation, I returned to MIT for a doctorate degree - so I would be able to teach as well as practice engineering.
My Day At Work Worked for a consulting company on many projects around the world related to energy production and transportation. Became interested in ways to manage safety and environmental performance using risk evaluation techniques.
Best Part Got a real sense of accomplishment in meeting a variety of challenges and seeing projects developed and built. Enjoyed working as part of a team where I could learn a lot from colleagues with different backgrounds.
Proud Moments Collaborating with some other MIT experts to develop a comprehensive course on energy options for the future and tools that can be used to find better pathways to a future energy system that is socially and environmentally sound
Challenges Started as an engineer when girls in the profession were unusual -- have enjoyed seeing more women enter the field and succeed professionally. Had some problems along the way, but learned that life sometimes brings new opportunities when I am open to changes
My Family Only child of two professional parents who always worked hard. Married an electrical engineer - marriage eventually failed because of my work addiction and misuse of alcohol. Now am happy with a life full of friends and adventures.
Inspiration Had some great teachers when I was in high school who challenged me to try things that seemed difficult.
Want to be an Engineer? Talk to engineers about their jobs -- and see if the types of things they do seem exciting. Hard work, lots of travel, teamwork, and a lot of opportunities are often part of it. If you love science and math, this is a good way to have a rewarding career.
Additional Thoughts Talk to engineers about their jobs -- and see if the types of things they do seem exciting. Hard work, lots of travel, teamwork, and a lot of opportunities are often part of it. If you love science and math, this is a good way to have a rewarding career.