What I Do I am currently working for a steel company as the Vice President of Health, Safety and Environmental in the Toledo, OH area.
Why Engineering? I originally went into engineering "no-preference" during my freshman year at Michigan State University because I loved Math and Science. During my freshmen year, I learned just how difficult Math and Science can be in college! Even though my classes were tough, I stayed in Engineering because of the variety of career paths. I learned that engineers can work as lawyers, managers, consultants, or whatever they choose!
School Days I attended Michigan State University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biosystems Engineering with a cognate in Environmental Engineering. I earned my Professional Engineer (PE) license in 2004.
Best Part I like to solve problems- that's what engineers do everyday. My job as an environmental engineer requires me to solve all kinds of problems like- what kind of pollution control equipment should we use? can we discharge this wastewater? what permits are needed for this company?
My Family My husband and I were married in 2001 on Michigan State's Campus. Geoff works in Information Technology and is an amazing photographer. We love to travel together and spend time outside with our dog, Nelly. We have traveled to New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, and even Iceland!
Want to be an Engineer? Find a mentor- someone who is a female engineer- they have gone through similar challenges and can offer a lot of great advice. I have a mentor now, even though I have been an engineer for several years. A mentor can offer advice to help you make smart decisions about your engineering education or career.
Hobbies Outside of work, I volunteer with our local Humane Society. I also enjoying spending time in nature and laughing with friends and family. My competitive spirit shines through as I enjoy playing cards, all kinds of board games and yard games too!