Engineers!
Please tell us a little about your family. I have a wonderful husband, two grown sons and daughter-in-laws, two grandsons, and three cats.
What are your short-term (1-2 years) and long-term (10+ years) goals? Short-term, I want to incorporate more of my skills into my computer graphics work, adding algorithms based on math, artificial intelligence, systems design… Long-term is more difficult to predict. I could continue along the same path, or consider down-sizing or “retirement”. I wouldn’t mind combining my engineering skills more with my artistic side; being involved with computer graphics for flight simulators is a good start. When I do get to “retirement”, I might do more painting, or fabric and clothing design, that is, indulge and further develop my artistic side.
Describe something about your life outside of work For about 15 years, my hobby was being in a local music band. Another woman and I sang the leads and harmonies to most of the songs, and the guys played guitar, bass and drums and do some singing too. That was a very fun hobby, even though we are not even close to being famous. I am now more into water color painting; I can take it with me when I travel or when we go boating on the week-ends. One favorite quote would be “This is the day that the Lord hath made; let us rejoice and be glad in it”. This is what we said each morning in grade school, and I like the attitude expressed to begin each day with appreciation and optimism.
What advice would you give to a young woman considering a career in engineering? Study hard; this is a challenging career, which is why it pays well and is in demand. This allows you to achieve other goals (dream home, nice clothes) and be self-sufficient. Taking on a challenge and succeeding is very satisfying. Don’t sell out; be your own self. It’s time for women to redefine being an engineer; it’s not just for nerds!