Diverse: a SWE podcast: Recent Episodes
Society of Women Engineers
Welcome to Diverse, a podcast by the Society of Women Engineers. SWE gives women engineers a unique place and voice within the engineering community. On Diverse, we highlight incredible thought leaders and personalities in our community and discover who they are at home, at work and in between.
usually starts with simply being open to a conversation.—The award-winning Diverse podcast from the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) is now Global Voices in Engineering! With nearly 45,000 members in 90+ countries around the world (and growing), we wanted a new name that perfectly captures what both SWE and the podcast are all about: bringing together engineering stories from around the world, because every engineer has a story.SWE is the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women and allies in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org
Should you apply for the promotion? Speak up in the meeting? Say yes to the opportunity that feels out of reach? These moments often come down to one thing: moving forward despite your self-doubt.In this episode, Anita Berthold, manager of learning and development at GlobalFoundries, sits down with host Sam East to explore why we fall into cycles of overthinking, self-doubt, and decision paralysis — and what to do about it.Anita shares how self-doubt almost kept her from applying for the STEM role she holds today, the question from a friend that changed her perspective, and why waiting until you feel ready rarely works.Plus, learn pragmatic, science-based tools you can put to use, including how to respond to your inner critic, treat scary situations like experiments, and recognize the physical signs that stress is taking over.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org
Engineers are increasingly expected to work alongside AI, so how can leaders adapt to this reality and guide their teams with empathy?In this episode, Eva Ribes Vilanova, product manager at Keysight Technologies, shares practical strategies for leading teams in an AI-powered workplace with host Sam East.Eva shares the five questions every engineer should ask before introducing AI into a project and discusses why the leaders who succeed won't necessarily be the ones who adopt AI the fastest.Hear why change is emotional, how to maintain a healthy skepticism of AI outputs, and three habits to lead engineering teams with curiosity and confidence.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit https://membership.swe.org
Specialty Plastics division, and Rob Douglas, chief engineer for planning and scheduling at the Space Telescope Science Institute, explore what allyship in engineering looks like — beyond the basics.Interviewed by Laurie Shuster, editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine, they discuss why mentorship isn't enough and what leaders can do to build workplaces where opportunity is built into the system rather than left to chance.Learn Rob's framework for growing from ally to mentor, coach, sponsor, and ultimately champion, and hear how David championed structured programs within Dow that created more equitable opportunities for engineers.Plus, explore practical ways to recognize bias, advocate for others when they're not in the room, and create more inclusive engineering teams.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
This episode of Diverse is brought to you by the University of Washington Bothell's nine-month graduate certificate program in software design and development.On July 1, 2026, Kerrie Greenfelder assumes the role of president of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), concluding Inaas Darrat’s term as SWE president.In this annual passing-the-torch conversation, Inaas reflects on her “Embrace Your Story” theme and explores how vulnerability, career pivots, and authentic storytelling resonated with SWE members around the world.Kerrie introduces her theme of “Radiate Change” and discusses how SWE can continue its mission for the next 75 years. She shares her vision for strengthening SWE’s visibility and “being the best for the most” in a world that is changing so rapidly.Plus, hear their favorite moments from the past year including jazz in New Orleans, glitter shoes, and the humor that comes with a career in wastewater engineering.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Chris Moore, CEO of FIRST, discusses how hands-on robotics programs are helping young people around the world develop confidence, resilience, and a STEM identity in this episode. With host Karen Horting, executive director and CEO of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), they explore the parallels between youth sports and STEM, the unique power of after-school learning, and how the SWE-FIRST partnership is helping students imagine futures as engineers and technologists.Hear why he views failure as part of success, how the energy of the FIRST Championship rivals major sporting events, and why volunteers can have a lasting impact simply by sharing their stories.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit https://membership.swe.org.
The golf course is often called a “second office,” where business deals and professional relationships are formed — but too often, women in engineering haven’t felt comfortable stepping into that space.In this episode, Nichole Neal, engineering faculty at Chandler-Gilbert Community College, and Kellie Phong, regional sales manager at Keysight Technologies, share how they created Swing 4 SWE, an initiative designed to bring students, faculty, and industry together on the green. Nichole reflects on how missing early-career golf invitations inspired her to build a program where women can learn the game in a supportive environment, and Kellie shares how Swing 4 SWE helped her say yes to networking opportunities she once would have avoided.Hear their personal experiences as first-generation college students, how Swing 4 SWE connects SWE members across community colleges and four-year universities, and why community colleges are a launchpad for success in the modern AI era.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Women make up only about 5-6% of pilots worldwide. How can women step into, and stay in, an industry where they are rarely represented — and what are the parallels with women in engineering?Katherine Moloney, pilot and founder of Elevate(her) Aviation, shares how she went from having no interest in flying to building a global organization that is reshaping who sees aviation as a career path.In conversation with Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), Katherine breaks down how visibility and representation impact who enters aviation, plus the structural changes needed for women to stay in the field. Hear how to reframe fear into curiosity, why small actions matter more than waiting to feel ready, and how building a supportive community can help women persist in technical fields.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
In this episode, FY26 SWE President Inaas Darrat sits down with two early-career SWE leaders to talk honestly about life after engineering school and the lessons they wish they had learned sooner.Abigail Fennell, biomedical engineering Ph.D. candidate at Johns Hopkins University, shares how her mentors and SWE connections helped her realize she wanted to pursue a Ph.D., along with the differences between undergraduate courses and graduate research. Abby Culloton, hydraulic engineer with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, reflects on learning how to make friends after college and transitioning into her first engineering role.Hear practical advice on setting new goals after college, finding support systems as an adult, and letting go of the pressure to figure everything out at once.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
What can hockey teach you about succeeding as an engineer?In this episode, Katherine Beaumier, remote operations project execution lead at ExxonMobil and two-time Division 1 women’s ice hockey national champion, explores how lessons from competitive hockey show up in her STEM career.In conversation with host Sam East, Katherine reflects on her journey of leaving home at 14 to pursue hockey opportunities, balancing athletic commitments with a chemical engineering degree, and rebuilding her identity after stepping into the workforce during the height of the pandemic.Hear the parallels between high-performing hockey teams and engineering teams, lessons from athletics to help engineers stay calm under pressure, and why having passions outside of work can strengthen your leadership style.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
To see the archival photos and documents referenced in the episode, watch the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/ItBlWLPcAyUIn this special video episode for SWE’s Founders Day, host Troy Eller English, chief archivist for the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), is joined by two of the editors of the book, “Women Engineering Legends 1952-1976: Society of Women Engineers Achievement Award Recipients,” Jill Tietjen and Holly Teig. Along with four other members of SWE’s Late Career and Retiree Affinity Group, this literary team explored the stories of the first 25 recipients of SWE’s Achievement Award.They discuss the technical legacy of early women engineers, from Edith Clarke’s work in electrical power systems to Alice Stoll’s research on g-forces and fire-resistant materials, along with the barriers they faced during a time when women made up less than 1% of the engineering workforce.Hear how members of the SWE Late Career and Retiree Affinity Group came together to research these stories, how the SWE archives made this work possible, and why it’s important for engineers today to understand this history.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Company.They also discuss the growing gap between being “career ready” and navigating the workplace, including understanding unspoken professional norms.Plus, hear how SASE and SWE are helping students move from the classroom to the boardroom through mentorship, leadership opportunities, and community building.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
AI is everywhere, but how can you use it to make your day-to-day life easier?In this episode of Diverse, Gabriela Salazar, senior pre-sales engineer at Aveva, shares how she uses AI as a practical tool to navigate work, motherhood, and everything in between.In conversation with Laurie Shuster, editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine, Gabriela discusses how AI can help engineers save time, reduce stress, and stay confident in high-pressure moments, especially when returning to work after leave or managing the mental load of parenting alongside a STEM career.Hear her personal experience as a woman in engineering in Mexico, how to use AI to quickly catch up after time away from work, and why learning how to ask is one of the most important AI skills you can develop.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
In this episode, members of the SWE Asian Connections Affinity Group discuss jugaad, a concept rooted in resourcefulness and frugal innovation, and how it applies in STEM spaces.Host Riddhi Attarde, lead-elect, is joined by Vidhya Prabhu, lead, and Uma Veeramani, member, to explore how engineers can use a jugaad mindset to find solutions when time or resources are limited. Drawing from their experiences in digital transformation in India, they reflect on how jugaad has helped them solve problems in creative ways without cutting corners.Hear how engineers can embrace jugaad within structured organizations, why it often starts with small pilots and experiments, and how Gen Z is putting its own spin on jugaad.Learn more about the SWE Asian Connections Affinity Group and get involved at https://affinitygroups.swe.org/asian-connections/—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Alise Fox, an Australian mathematician, fisheries scientist, and science communicator, shares how a winding path through teaching, biomechanics, and pavement engineering led her to become a “mathmafishian” — using data to understand fish populations and support sustainable fishing policies.In conversation with host Sam East, Alise reflects on the power of “side quests” in shaping a career, from studying mushrooms with local mycology groups to painting the fish she researches for scientific reports. She also discusses her experience as a woman in STEM with late-diagnosed neurodivergence, how creativity and curiosity fuel better science communication, and why asking questions is a powerful tool for building confidence.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
April is National Arab American Heritage Month, celebrated each year in the U.S. to honor the contributions, stories, and impact of the Arab American community.In this episode, civil engineer and construction manager Ashwaq Alhammami and transportation project engineer Farrah Rawashdeh join host FY26 SWE President Inaas Darrat to explore their personal experiences as Arab American women in engineering.Hear how their identities shape the way they approach their STEM careers, along with examples of how they have navigated cultural differences in the workplace. They share the career pivots that led them to this moment — including starting over in a new country, walking away from a Ph.D. program, and adapting to a change in graduation plans — and reflect on the creation of the American Arab Engineering Society.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
commercialisation facility lead at MSD Ireland, discusses how engineers can turn failure into a powerful career advantage in this episode.In conversation with host Sam East, Audrey reflects on her unconventional path from electrician to biotech leader and shares how the moments that didn’t go to plan shaped her resilience, confidence, and leadership style.Hear how to pursue STEM roles when you don’t meet every requirement, rebuild confidence after a failure, and create space for your team to take risks — even in high-stakes technical environments.Audrey will expand on these insights as the opening keynote at WE Local Dublin, taking place April 23-24, 2026. WE Local conferences bring together engineers and technologists for networking opportunities, professional development, and inspiring conversations like this one.Register at welocal.swe.org to join SWE at WE Local Dublin or an upcoming WE Local near you.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Competing on Survivor might seem worlds apart from earning a Ph.D., but Eva Erickson proves that the grit required to succeed in STEM can translate anywhere!In this episode, Eva shares her experience as the first openly autistic contestant on Season 48 of Survivor and as a Ph.D. candidate in engineering at Brown University. She discusses how her analytical mindset helped her tackle challenges on the island, as well as her experience breaking barriers as the captain of the men’s hockey team at Brown University.In conversation with Karen Horting, CEO and executive director of the Society of Women Engineers, hear how Eva blends science, competition, and advocacy — plus her advice for women engineers and allies who want to pursue authentic and multifaceted career paths.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
When women and allies in engineering connect globally, they strengthen the entire community.In this episode, host Abosede Adewole, collegiate engagement lead for the SWE Global Women Engineers Affinity Group, is joined by Banisha Prinja, lead-elect, and Eshika Mahajan, professional development lead, to discuss how they have built relationships with engineers around the world and the benefits they have gained from these global connections.They open up about their experiences as women in STEM, from navigating industries where they were the only women in the room to finding commonalities across their experiences in Nigeria and India.Hear why a global perspective matters at the local level, what to do when you don’t “feel ready,” and how participating in SWE’s Global Women Engineers Affinity Group has grown their networks and leadership skills.Learn more and get involved with the SWE Global Women Engineers Affinity Group: https://affinitygroups.swe.org/global-women-engineers/ —The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
In this episode, Abigail Mizzi, master’s student in aeronautical and astronautical engineering at Purdue University, and Steven Collicott, Ph.D., professor in Purdue’s School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, share the story behind Purdue 1 — a groundbreaking university-led spaceflight mission set for 2027.Abigail is poised to become the first graduate student to conduct her thesis research in space, operating her fluids experiment during three minutes of microgravity. Dr. Collicott will also fly a human-tended experiment studying how liquids move over surfaces in weightlessness — research that can’t be replicated on Earth.In conversation with FY26 SWE President Inaas Darrat, hear how Purdue 1 became a reality, what it takes to prepare mentally and physically for suborbital flight, and how SWE has shaped Abigail’s STEM journey — including receiving the Outstanding Collegiate Member award.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
What does responsible AI actually look like, and who gets to shape it?Live from the WE25 Diverse Podcast Studio in New Orleans, Lisa Thee, TEDx speaker and global AI thought leader, discusses using AI for social good and building technology that puts people first.Lisa shares her unexpected journey from industrial engineering at the University of Michigan to becoming an accidental entrepreneur, and the moment in 2015 when she realized AI could help combat human trafficking — including a collaboration that helped law enforcement recover 130 missing children in its first month.In conversation with Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at SWE, hear three practical tips to use AI ethically, where bias enters AI systems, and how SWE and its annual conferences have repeatedly shaped Lisa’s career.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Paige Feikert, research and technology engineer with Spirit AeroSystems, joins us live from the WE25 Diverse Podcast Studio to break down why communication can make or break your impact as an engineer — and how to get better at it.In conversation with Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at SWE, Paige shares her unconventional career path from biomedical engineering student, to TV news producer at a CBS affiliate, and back into engineering. Hear why storytelling matters in technical work, actionable advice to help you communicate to executives and non-technical audiences, and what producing live TV news taught Paige about teamwork, deadlines, and handling pressure.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
As part of SWE’s “Un Cafecito With a Woman in STEM” series, spotlighting Latina voices across the globe, this special episode of Diverse is presented in Spanish.Claudia Guerrero, SWE global ambassador and service program leader at GE Aerospace, sits down with host Doris Moreno Maldonado, process engineer at Kellogg’s and lead of the SWE Latinos Affinity Group, for a conversation on antifragility, authenticity, and creating community wherever you are.Recorded live at WE25 in New Orleans, Claudia shares her journey as one of the first women in her family to study engineering in Mexico, her role in growing the SWE affiliate in Querétaro, and surviving a life-altering medical crisis. Hear how to move beyond resilience toward antifragility, build your personal board of directors, and lean into your unique authentic strengths.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Carolina Caro, WE Local Portland keynote and CEO of Conscious Leadership Partners, breaks down communication blind spots for engineers and explores how your communication style shapes your leadership impact in this episode.As a scientist by training, Carolina reflects on why technical expertise isn’t enough and speaks to the platinum rule, where you meet people where they are and communicate in the way they can best receive.In conversation with FY26 SWE President Inaas Darrat, hear how to strengthen your communication without compromising your authenticity and why communication style is an often-overlooked dimension of diversity.Carolina will expand on these insights as the opening keynote at WE Local Portland, taking place Feb. 27-28. WE Local conferences bring together engineers and technologists for networking opportunities, professional development, and inspirational speakers. Register at welocal.swe.org to join SWE at an upcoming WE Local near you!—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Julie Daugherty, engineering associate and process project leader at Corning Incorporated, joins us live at WE25 to discuss how introverts can embrace their strengths and turn them into career superpowers. In conversation with Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at SWE, hear how planning ahead builds confidence, how to survive “mandatory fun” networking events, and why finding extroverted champions can be key to career growth in STEM. You’ll also learn how managers can support introverted engineers, what it means to be an ambivert, and why personality diversity leads to stronger teams and better problem-solving.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Building a STEM career looks different around the world, but the benefits of mentorship, sponsorship, and community are universal.In this episode, Abosede Adewole, Ph.D., principal electrical engineer with Nigeria’s Federal Housing Authority, and Stella Uzochukwu, country director of the Odyssey Educational Foundation, discuss the differences between mentorship and sponsorship, as well as their personal journeys navigating gender bias in Nigeria’s engineering and technology sectors.Interviewed at WE25 by Laurie Shuster, editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine, hear why sponsorship often happens behind closed doors, tips to make yourself visible and “sponsorship-ready,” and how Abosede and Stella are supporting the next generation through STEM outreach initiatives.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Zoe, SWENext Influencer and FIRST Robotics leader, and Charlee, a member of the 2025 STEM Next Flight Crew youth ambassador program, join us live from the WE25 Diverse Podcast Studio in New Orleans to share their experiences as young STEM leaders.In conversation with Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at SWE, they reflect on how Invent It. Build It. sparked powerful connections, what leadership looks like as a precollege student, and how they navigate bias, responsibility, and pressure as “the first” in their communities. Hear their experiences starting STEM clubs and expanding access in rural areas, plus why a strong community is critical to shaping a more inclusive future in engineering. —The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
D engineer in BD’s Peripheral Intervention business and SWE life member, shares her 20+ year journey navigating authenticity, leadership, and innovation in STEM.From being told that she couldn’t be both an engineer and a mom, to learning that her bubbly enthusiasm is a strength and not a liability, Christine reflects on how embracing who she is shaped her career and impact.In conversation with host Sam East, hear how authentic leadership fuels better innovation outcomes, what to do when workplace feedback conflicts with your core values, and practical advice to create cultures where people feel safe bringing their whole selves to work.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Stepping into STEM leadership doesn’t require a senior title or having everything figured out.In this episode, Katie Ashley, volunteer coordinator of the SWE Early Career Professionals Affinity Group (SWE ECP AG), is joined by Zoe Husted, ECP AG conferences and awards co-chair and president of the SWE Golden Gate Section, and Kathryn Wittek, ECP AG design coordinator and president of the SWE Baltimore-Washington Section, to explore what leadership can look like in the beginning years of an engineering career.Drawing from their experiences in SWE, team sports, and technical roles, Zoe and Kathryn share when they started seeing themselves as leaders, how they navigate leading more experienced colleagues, and why learning and leading often happen at the same time.Hear their tips to find community as an early-career engineer, plus how the skills they have developed through SWE have translated into the workplace.The SWE ECP AG was formed to equip individuals with the support, resources, and inclusive community to excel in the first ten years of their career. Get involved and find out about upcoming ECP AG events at https://earlycareerprofessionalsag.swe.org/. —The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
This episode is sponsored by Fortune Brands Innovations.In this episode, Karen Morris, vice president of environmental health, safety, and security at Fortune Brands Innovations, discusses how to build an engineering career that can shift and evolve through different seasons of your life.Over her 30+ year career spanning more than a dozen roles, Karen reflects on the career-defining moments that came from unexpected pivots — including taking a role that looked like a step back in order to support her family.In conversation with host Sam East, hear how to navigate career decisions alongside life changes, what she has learned by traveling to the “Clevelands of the world,” and how to create longevity in your engineering journey. —The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Leadership coach, author, engineer, and executive Sabina Nawaz shares how managers and employees can build stronger working relationships in this episode of Diverse.Recorded live at WE25 in New Orleans, Sabina draws on her 14-year career at Microsoft — including advising Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer — to break down what causes leaders to struggle and how to avoid becoming “that boss.” Hear how leaders can unlock better ideas from their teams, tips to demystify your manager’s working style, and what it means to “never go to work hungry.”—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Kim Burton, director of project engineering at Textron Aviation, joins SWE President-Elect Kerrie Greenfelder for a leadership conversation that’s out of this world.Drawing on iconic moments from Star Trek: Voyager, Kim shares how Captain Kathryn Janeway shaped her path into engineering and inspires her leadership philosophy today. Hear lessons from the show that offer real-life guidance for STEM leaders — from decision-making under pressure, to building inclusive teams, to ensuring no crew member is left behind.Recorded live at WE25 in New Orleans, this conversation explores how emotional intelligence, communication, and diverse perspectives fuel high-performing teams — whether you’re commanding a starship or leading humans on planet Earth.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Kristin Hagen, biomedical engineering student at the University of California, Irvine and lifelong dancer, shares practical tools from the dance world to help women in STEM take up space and present with confidence.Live from the WE25 Diverse Podcast Studio in New Orleans, Kristin shares how choreography, muscle memory, posture, and improvisation can transform the way engineers show up during presentations with host Laurie Shuster, editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine.Hear why confidence begins the moment you walk into the room, how techniques like the “Clinton box” can strengthen your stage presence, and how staying poised helped her recover from an on-stage slip-up during a technical talk.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
This episode is sponsored by Bechtel.Josefina Alvarez and Kira McKay, supplier quality representatives at Bechtel, sit down with SWE President-Elect Kerrie Greenfelder to discuss how they landed their first jobs through the SWE and SHPE career fairs and also discovered a side of engineering they never knew existed.Recorded live at the WE25 Diverse Podcast Studio in New Orleans, hear about the behind-the-scenes components of engineering — from supply chain to quality systems — and how these roles make iconic projects possible. Kira and Josefina share candid advice for engineering students and new grads, what they’ve learned inside the Bechtel Supplier Quality and Expediting (BSQE) program, and how mentorship, curiosity, and saying “yes” to unfamiliar paths shaped their early careers. —The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Women engineers often struggle to set boundaries or say “no” at work.Srividhya Pallay and Tsega Tefera, solutions architects at Amazon Web Services, joined us live in the WE25 Diverse Podcast Studio to share real-world lessons around overcoming imposter syndrome, finding the confidence to speak up in meetings, and unapologetically protecting their time and energy in their STEM careers.In conversation with Laurie Shuster, editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine, hear how to handle disagreements with professionalism and grace, calendar-blocking techniques to maintain balance, and go-to phrases to communicate boundaries effectively.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
The common advice for career growth is to “move up” into management — but what if your true passion lies in staying close to the technology itself?In this episode, host Sam East speaks with Deb Whitis, Ph.D., and Amrita Maguire, both of the SWE Technical Career Path Affinity Group, about what it means to grow, lead, and make an impact as engineers while staying on the technical career path.From developing nickel-based superalloys that power jet engines to advancing ergonomic standards and AI-enabled design, Deb and Amrita reflect on their careers and share how technical leadership can be just as influential as managing people. They also highlight the work of SWE’s Technical Career Path Affinity Group, including a new mentorship program helping women chart their own path as innovators, inventors, and subject matter experts.Get involved with the SWE Technical Career Path Affinity Group: https://affinitygroups.swe.org/technical-career-path/ —The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
In this episode, Karen Horting, CEO and executive director of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Olympic gold medalist and industrial engineer Benita Fitzgerald Mosley, the first Black woman to win gold in the 100-meter hurdles — a milestone she achieved at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.Benita shares how she balanced the demands of engineering school with her Olympic training, the lessons she learned about time and energy management, and the unforgettable moment when she realized she had won gold. Hear how Benita’s personal mantra, “Why not me?,” has guided her through challenges in athletics, STEM, and leadership — plus the five gold medal strategies she continues to practice.—The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
This episode is sponsored by Nucor.When Johanna Threm, vice president and general manager at Nucor, started her career, she envisioned designing buildings and bridges as a civil engineer. In conversation with SWE Executive Director and CEO Karen Horting, Johanna shares how she transitioned to the steel industry, the lessons she’s learned from taking bold career risks, and the importance of “lifting as you climb” to create opportunities for others.Recorded live at WE25, hear how Nucor offers diverse career paths in rural and urban communities, how Johanna’s family embraced a cross-country move during the pandemic, and why seeing women in every role — from crane operators to metallurgists — signals a powerful shift in the steel industry.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
In honor of National Native American Heritage Month, SWE CEO and Executive Director Karen Horting sits down with Sarah EchoHawk, president and CEO of Advancing Indigenous People in STEM (AISES), to discuss visibility, allyship, and access for Indigenous engineers.Sarah shares her family’s deep legacy of public service, the role of tribal colleges in reclaiming education, and how Indigenous knowledge systems — from fire science to environmental stewardship — can help solve global challenges.Plus, hear how employers, educators, and organizations like SWE can strengthen partnerships with AISES to ensure Indigenous voices are included in the future of STEM.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
This episode is sponsored by Resideo.In this episode, two engineers share how curiosity, empathy, and innovation shape their work creating smart home technologies.Helen Meza, systems integration lead engineer at Resideo, shares her inspiring path from Peru to the U.S. and discusses how she leads global teams with empathy and adaptability. Kyra Neal, mechanical design engineer at Resideo, reflects on how she went from designing 3D printers to designing thermostats and dehumidifiers that make tangible differences in people’s lives — and how curiosity played a role in her STEM career.In conversation with Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at SWE, hear Helen’s insights on incorporating cultural awareness into leadership, Kyra’s lessons on finding growth through every challenge, and how Resideo fosters an environment where engineers can make an impact.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
What is it like to navigate STEM while living with a visible or invisible disability?In this episode, Haylee Mota, a recent engineering graduate who is blind, shares how she found her path to aerospace through robotics, hands-on research, and self-advocacy — overcoming barriers like inaccessible course materials. Angelie Vincent, a mid-career aerospace engineer living with autism, diabetes, and celiac disease, reflects on lessons learned from a late diagnosis, masking in the workplace, and the power of mentorship.In conversation with Jenevieve Surkin, lead of SWE’s DisAbility Inclusion Affinity Group (DIAG), hear how universities and workplaces can do better and why requesting accommodations is about creating equal access and opportunity.DIAG was formed to build a supportive, safe community for differently abled/disabled engineers, caregivers, and allies to network and develop themselves professionally. Get involved and find out about upcoming events at sites.swe.org/diag/.—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
This episode is sponsored by Draper.How do you know when it’s the right moment to make a career change? In this episode, Maureen Masiulis, director of space sensing, domain awareness, and control at Draper and acting vice president and general manager of Draper’s Space Systems Business Unit, shares her STEM journey from robotics in middle school to leadership roles in the aerospace and defense industries. In conversation with host Sam East, she reflects on the pivotal moments when she had to decide whether to move on and details how her volunteer experiences within SWE shaped her leadership skills.Hear how Maureen balances career growth with family and personal priorities and why Draper’s nonprofit model and programs like Draper Scholars make it a unique place for engineers to grow their careers.-----The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
From escaping Vietnam as a refugee to becoming vice president of global front-end procurement at Micron Technology, Thy Tran has lived a story defined by resilience and purpose. In this episode, FY26 SWE President Inaas Darrat sits down with Thy to discuss her extraordinary path to earning 13 patents, leading global teams, and embracing new challenges in business and leadership.Hear Thy’s reflections on giving back, balancing engineering with art and entrepreneurship, and embracing your story.Don’t miss Thy’s upcoming keynote at WE25, the world’s largest conference for women and allies in engineering, which takes place Oct. 23-25 in New Orleans: we25.swe.org ---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Engineers Jabreel Walker and Morgan Smith of the GradSWE Affinity Group share their experiences in graduate school in this episode of Diverse.In conversation with host Sam East, they discuss their motivations for pursuing graduate school, the challenges of returning to school after a break, and the differences between the undergraduate and graduate experience.Hear their advice for engineers who are considering grad school, the pivots they made along the way, and how the GradSWE Affinity Group has helped them find community and support.Get involved with the GradSWE Affinity Group: https://affinitygroups.swe.org/gradswe/ ---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Suzanna Valdez Wolfe, CEO of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), sits down with Karen Horting, CEO and executive director of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.Suzanna shares her journey from El Paso, Texas, to leadership roles in Washington, D.C., and now at SHPE, where she champions familia, community, and belonging in STEM. Hear the unique challenges and opportunities facing Latinas in engineering, the importance of mentorship and leadership development, and how SHPE and SWE are working together to strengthen the STEM pipeline.Plus, explore how advocacy at the local and national levels ensures Hispanic voices are represented in shaping the future of STEM.-----The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
This episode is sponsored by Turner.Blanca Diaz, vice president and construction executive at Turner, and Leah Turner-Jenkins, special projects division manager at Turner, started in the same university engineering program — but their careers took sharply different paths.In conversation with host Sam East, Blanca and Leah reflect on the pivotal teachers who steered them toward engineering, their experiences navigating massive construction projects, and how Turner supports women in the field.Hear what it takes to thrive in an industry that demands both technical expertise and people-centered leadership, and what they each learned along the way about leading change. -----The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Kelsea Fitzgerald, director of operations at Chevron's Engineering and Innovation Excellence Center (ENGINE), shares her journey from studying chemical engineering in the U.S. to taking on a global leadership role in Bengaluru, India. In conversation with Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at SWE, Kelsea encourages women and allies to build self-trust by taking uncomfortable steps out of their comfort zones.Plus, hear what Kelsea loved the most about WE Local Bengaluru, including moderating a panel on self-trust and finding a sense of community with new STEM connections.WE Local conferences events bring together engineers and technologists of all genders for professional development sessions, networking opportunities, and inspirational speakers. Find the next WE Local conference near you at welocal.swe.org -----The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
This episode is sponsored by Jabil.Cassie Gruber, director of sustainability business solutions at Jabil, explores how engineers can shape a more sustainable future in this episode of Diverse.In conversation with Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at SWE, Cassie explores her unconventional career path from studying art and philosophy to leading global sustainability strategies in manufacturing.Hear the biggest sustainability challenges she is seeing across 16 sectors, the importance of collaboration in the circular economy, and why Jabil is a unique place for engineers to grow and thrive in their careers.-----The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Cassandra Morecroft King, deputy program manager at BlackSea Technologies, did something most people only dream about: she quit her ocean engineering job in oil and gas and set out to hike the entire Appalachian Trail.But the toughest part wasn’t the hike itself — it was reentering the engineering workforce afterward and figuring out how to frame her unconventional journey as a career strength.In conversation with host Sam East, Cassandra shares stories from the trail (including losing her shoes in a river), her experience of reentering the STEM workforce, and how engineers can leverage their personal adventures to highlight the unique skills they bring to the table.-----The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
In honor of the 10th anniversary of SWENext, this episode of Diverse brings a special mother-daughter conversation.Bharti B., operations manager at Keysight Technologies, reflects on what it was like to be one of the few women in her computer science classes growing up. Aavya B., who is a SWENext influencer as well as Bharti’s daughter, shares how she’s carrying that legacy forward by founding the first SWENext Club in India and pursuing her dream of becoming a biomedical engineer. In conversation with Sam East, Bharti and Aavya discuss how opportunities for girls in engineering have evolved, the power of role models, and the unique bond that comes from sharing a STEM passion across generations.Know a precollege kid interested in STEM? Join SWENext, the Society’s free program that allows students ages 5 through 18 to join the SWE engineering and technology community! Learn more and get involved at swe.org/outreach/swenext/ ---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Melanie Lang, co-founder and CEO of FormAlloy, details her entrepreneurial journey and inspires engineers to take bold risks in this episode of Diverse.In conversation with FY26 SWE President Inaas Darrat, Melanie reflects on the pivotal decision to leave a stable career in aerospace and defense to launch her own business.Hear the mistakes Melanie made along the way, her tips on embracing failure, the rule she wishes women engineers would break more often, and what a pink feathered suit jacket taught her about authenticity.Don’t miss Melanie’s upcoming keynote at WE25, the world’s largest conference for women and allies in engineering, which takes place Oct. 23-25 in New Orleans: we25.swe.org ---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Motivational speaker Dr. Ruth Jones reflects on the importance of leaving a purposeful legacy in this episode of Diverse.As the second African American woman in Alabama to earn a Ph.D. in physics, Dr. Jones shares her trailblazing journey and career advice in conversation with FY26 SWE President Inaas Darrat.Hear what it means to lead as your authentic self, the importance of helping the next generation, and how to become the CEO of your own life. You’ll also get a sneak peek of Dr. Jones’s upcoming keynote at WE25, the world’s largest conference for women and allies in engineering, which takes place Oct. 23-25 in New Orleans: we25.swe.org ---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Carol Holland, board of directors chair-elect of the Construction Management Association of America, sits down with Laurie Shuster, editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine, to discuss the evolution of the construction management industry and how AI and digital twin technologies are reshaping the field.She shares stories from her high-profile career and breaks down persistent myths about working in construction management, from sustainability and jobsite culture to flexibility and who belongs in the field. Find more of Carol’s insights on the future of construction management in the Spring 2025 issue of SWE Magazine: swe.org/magazine/in-focus-4/ -----The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Speaking up in engineering classes, labs, and group projects isn’t always easy — especially at the collegiate level.In this episode of Diverse, Eden Katz, vice president-internal at Columbia SWE, and Lauren Grae, vice president-external at Columbia SWE, sit down with host Sam East to reflect on how they’ve built confidence as women in engineering, including the moments they spoke up and what happened after.Hear practical advice and relatable stories around using your voice unapologetically and creating STEM environments where everyone feels safe to contribute -- including their favorite phrase that every ally needs to know.---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org
Transitioning from college to the professional world can be difficult, especially when it comes to growing your network and making friends as an adult.Maria Roma-Hossain, systems engineer at Mammotome, shares her personal experience of navigating the college-to-career transition and making meaningful connections in a new city in this episode.In conversation with Sam East, hear how to put yourself out there, whether coworkers should ever become your friends, and how employee resource groups and SWE sections are fostering belonging for women engineers.---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
In this episode of Diverse, Ana Tijerina Esquino, civil engineer at Mott MacDonald, explains why engineering is fundamentally a helping profession that aims to improve society.Ana discusses her unconventional journey into civil engineering, how infrastructure projects have historically harmed marginalized communities, and sustainable practices that are changing the industry in conversation with Laurie Shuster, editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine.Hear Ana’s reflections on the funding of ports and mass transit, as well as the American Society of Civil Engineers’ 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, in the Spring 2025 issue of SWE Magazine.---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org
The term “leaky pipeline” is often used to describe why women leave STEM careers, but does that language tell the full story?In this episode, Cassie Leonard, aerospace engineer and founder of ELMM Coaching, and Ashley Wynne, technical engineering manager and co-lead of the HeforSWE Affinity Group, share a more nuanced understanding of why women leave engineering roles and how to support their continued growth in the field.In conversation with SWE Executive Director & CEO Karen Horting, hear the limitations of the leaky pipeline analogy and the top pieces of advice for leaders who want to retain STEM talent. Plus, learn about an upcoming book that includes personal stories of women in STEM asking, “Should I stay or should I go?”---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
On July 1, 2025, Inaas Darrat assumes the role of president of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), concluding Karen Roth’s one-year term as SWE president.In this special episode, Karen shares her personal highlights from the past year, insights on how the theme of “Together We Rise” came to life during her presidency, and words of advice for Inaas as she steps into the role.Inaas introduces the FY26 theme of “Embrace Your Story” and reflects on the key pivots throughout her own engineering journey, along with her goals for the upcoming year as SWE president.
What’s it really like to study engineering at a community college, and where can that path take you?Denise Grazielle Cruz, SWE collegiate member at Essex County College, and Maeliz Colon, SWE counselor for the Springfield Technical Community College SWE Affiliate, discuss their STEM experiences at community colleges with SWE President Karen Roth.Hear why they chose the community college path, the stigmas and misperceptions they experienced along the way, advice for women studying engineering, and reflections on how to grow participation within SWE Affiliates at community colleges.---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Technical skills alone don’t guarantee how you're seen or heard in engineering. In this episode, engineers Zaineb Ahmad and Barbara Read join host Sam East to unpack how language choices shape the way women and underrepresented groups are perceived in STEM workplaces.Hear the key phrases to avoid at work, how to write emails that maintain attention, and communication tips to grow your reputation and confidence. Plus, hear how allies can step in when an idea in a meeting gets credited to someone else. ---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
In this episode of Diverse, Sandra Park, financial coach for women in STEM, speaks with SWE President Karen Roth about how engineers can achieve financial independence and gain more freedom in their careers.Sandra shares a financial wake-up call from her own engineering journey and discusses practical steps for building a strong foundation, including budgeting and investing at all career stages.Hear how engineers can apply problem-solving skills to personal finance, a systems approach to paying off student loans, and the #1 financial habit that every woman in STEM should start today. ---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
How can engineers prepare for a potential layoff? What steps should you take immediately after being laid off? And how can you bounce back and find your next career opportunity?In this episode, Jessica Rannow, senior project manager at KPI Solutions, and Brittney Elko, senior director of supply chain at Jasper Therapeutics, answer these questions and share how they have navigated multiple layoffs and pivots throughout their successful STEM careers.Hear the life lessons they learned from being laid off, their favorite LinkedIn strategies, how to keep your interview skills sharp year-round, and recommendations on how to bring up the layoff in job interviews in this conversation with Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at the Society of Women Engineers (SWE).—The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
In this episode of Diverse, Kate Hensley, associate director at Collins Aerospace, joins host Marsha Lynn Bragg, senior editor of publications at the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), to discuss the surprising parallels between STEM and stand-up comedy. Kate shares her nonlinear journey in engineering and how the skills she’s honed through comedy have shaped her success. Hear insights on communicating with management, embracing failure in order to grow, and embracing diverse interests outside of the workplace.Whether you’re in engineering, comedy, or both, this episode reminds us that failure is a stepping stone to success and that creativity and resilience are the keys to thriving in any role. —The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
What if networking could be as fun as game night?! In this special episode of Diverse, recorded live at WE24, hear game enthusiasts and industry leaders Nicole Woon, senior product manager at Microsoft, and Emily Carney, senior manager of site project management at Genezen, explore an unexpected source of networking wisdom: board games. Nicole and Emily share how games like Ticket to Ride and Apples to Apples offer surprising insights into making authentic connections. They break down networking myths and offer fresh perspectives on turning potentially awkward interactions into genuine connections.They also reflect on their love for the SWE community and the opportunities their SWE connections have opened.---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
Helen Mills and Lisa Malmanger, co-leads of the SWE Military and Veterans Affinity Group, share personal stories on why building community is essential for military-connected engineers and their families in this episode of Diverse.Lisa shares the challenges she faced when adjusting to the civilian workforce after serving in the military, and Helen reflects on the importance of mental health and allyship. They also discuss how military experience translates into leadership and technical skills in STEM.Plus, learn how SWE’s Military and Veterans Affinity Group is building community for military service members, veterans, family members, and allies in STEM. Learn more and get involved at affinitygroups.swe.org/military-veterans/ ---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
In celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Jayshree Seth, Ph.D., corporate scientist and chief science advocate at 3M, joins us to discuss the motivation behind her latest book, “The Heart of Science: Engineering Blueprint.”In conversation with SWE CEO and Executive Director Karen Horting, Jayshree shares how “The Heart of Science” trilogy provides a blueprint for a purposeful STEM journey at any career stage.Hear why we need to redefine the concept of mentorship, how an immigrant mindset can help everyone navigate new challenges, and what Jayshree plans to share at WE25 in New Orleans.All proceeds of “The Heart of Science” trilogy go to the Jayshree Seth Scholarship for Women of Color in STEM, administered by SWE. Find out more here: https://alltogether.swe.org/2024/10/heart-of-science-blueprint/ ---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
This episode is brought to you by Horton.To see the photos and documents referenced in the episode, watch the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/UlAoX2duYqMIn this special episode of Diverse, Troy Eller English, chief archivist at SWE, and Mary Mann, archives librarian at The Cooper Union, celebrate SWE’s 75th anniversary by unpacking stories from the archives.They discuss the founding meeting of SWE in 1950 and reflect on how understanding the past can inform future practices in engineering and society.Hear the contributions of women engineers since that time, the creative ways the SWE archives have been used over the years, and a preview of SWE’s Founder’s Day event at The Cooper Union.---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.
This episode is sponsored by Discover Financial Services.How can women in tech build resilience, grow into leadership, and still make time for life outside of work? In this episode of Diverse, host Sam East sits down with two inspiring women from Discover Financial Services: Ranjani Rao, director of infrastructure product management, and Jamie Stallworth, manager training specialist.They share honest reflections on bouncing back from failure, advice for work-life balance, and insights on how they keep their technical knowledge up to date. Plus, hear how Discover Financial Services has supported their leadership growth and development.---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org
This episode is brought to you by Modern Makers.In this episode of Diverse, engineer, entrepreneur, and space explorer Anousheh Ansari sits down with SWE Executive Director and CEO Karen Horting.As the first female private space explorer, Anousheh shares her extraordinary journey, delving into how her problem-solving engineering skills have shaped her path, as well as her unforgettable experiences in space that transformed her perspective on global challenges. She also shares insights on risk-taking, adaptability, and the invaluable lessons learned from failures. ---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org
Allison Grealis, founder and president of the Women in Manufacturing Association (WiM), sits down with SWE CEO and Executive Director Karen Horting to discuss the state of women in manufacturing.Allison reflects on her experience launching WiM and leading its growth to over 32,000 members today. She shares creative retention strategies and workforce training efforts that are shaping the future of manufacturing, along with unique offerings like the Women in Production program, which helps women advance into leadership roles.Plus, as SWE celebrates its 75th anniversary and WiM marks 15 years, hear about SWE and WiM’s new partnership.For more, you can read Allison’s interview in the spring 2025 issue of SWE Magazine.
Theresa Cummings, CEO of Cummings Consulting & Management LLC and a mechanical engineer by trade, joins host Sam East in this episode of Diverse: a SWE Podcast.Cummings shares her inspiring journey from engineer to leadership consultant, helping industry leaders like NASA and Coca-Cola build stronger teams. Together, they discuss the pivotal role of interpersonal skills in technical environments and how women in STEM can lead with confidence and authenticity.Discover actionable advice on overcoming stereotypes, embracing feminine leadership, and developing the soft skills essential for thriving in male-dominated fields. Cummings also highlights strategies for building relationships, balancing technical expertise with emotional intelligence, and empowering yourself to take the lead.For more insights from Cummings, check out her feature in the winter issue of SWE Magazine: https://swe.org/magazine/how-women-lead/---The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit https://membership.swe.org
This episode is sponsored by Cadence Design Systems. What happens when industry leaders refuse to accept the status quo in tech diversity? In this episode of Diverse, Nicole Johnson, global director of social impact & employee engagement for Cadence Design Systems, and Dr. Judith Spitz, founder and CEO of Break Through Tech, discuss their groundbreaking partnership through the Fem.AI initiative. They share innovative strategies to address the three leakage points in the tech talent pipeline for women, including tackling the alarming statistic that 50% of women leave tech careers before the 12-year mark.Learn how they're reimagining the talent pipeline by connecting high-potential students from over 200 universities with industry opportunities and developing early career leadership programs to empower a new generation of tech leaders.
This episode is brought to you by Crown.This Women's History Month episode of Diverse features a compelling conversation with Lori McDowell, who transitioned from a 30-year career in chemical engineering to become a bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and life coach.In conversation with host Hang Loi, Lori candidly discusses how being fired became her catalyst for change, leading to her book, The Reinvention Mindset, and a thriving coaching practice. She shares practical insights about navigating financial uncertainty, finding supportive communities, and integrating both logical and creative thinking. As members of SWE's Late Career and Retiree Affinity Group, both women explore how experienced engineers can embrace new chapters with confidence.As a proud member of SWE's Late Career and Retiree Affinity Group, Lori offers valuable insights for women engineers considering their next chapter, emphasizing that it's never too late to reinvent yourself.
This episode and the WE24 Podcast Studio are proudly sponsored by Apple. In this episode of Diverse, Lindsay Epstein, product design engineer at Apple, and SWE collegiate member Alden Sherrill discuss the significance of community, diversity in design, and emerging trends in health and clean energy technology. In conversation with FY25 SWE President Karen Roth, Lindsay, and Alden reflect on their personal journeys and share how strong community support empowered them to thrive and innovate. They also share how opportunities like the Apple Engineering Camp and SWE offer invaluable mentorship through hands-on learning experiences. This episode offers lessons for both emerging and established engineers, emphasizing how good design and diverse perspectives can transform lives and shape our technological future.
In this episode of Diverse, host Siddika Demir speaks with Renée Amilcar, the first female president of UITP, the International Association of Public Transport, about her trailblazing career in a male-dominated industry.Renée shares her passion for public transport and discusses the vital role it plays in sustainable urban development. She reflects on the importance of gender parity and diversity within the sector and offers valuable insights on the skills women engineers need to succeed in public transport. From innovative advancements in passenger communication to the critical need for mentorship, Renée emphasizes how being bold and breaking down barriers can help pave the way for future generations of women leaders. This episode is an empowering conversation about transforming an often-overlooked field and creating lasting change.
This episode is sponsored by GE Vernova.In this episode of the Diverse podcast, Reggie Miller, chief diversity, equity, and inclusion officer for GE Vernova, joins host Inaas Darrat, SWE president-elect, to discuss the importance of allyship in advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in the workplace.Miller shares his personal journey and motivations for advocating for women in STEM, offering practical strategies, personal anecdotes, and invaluable advice for women navigating male-dominated fields. He also discusses GE Vernova's DEIB initiatives and emphasizes the role of allies in creating an inclusive environment. Don’t miss this thought-provoking exploration of what it truly means to be a great ally in the workplace and beyond, including the importance of mutual respect, open communication, and shared goals in building a culture of support and empowerment.
This episode of Diverse welcomes Camille Smith, a chemical engineer and founder of STEM So(ul)cial, to explore the challenges and opportunities for women and minorities in STEM. In conversation with host Inaas Darrat, SWE president-elect, Smith shares her journey of navigating her identity in the workplace and the barriers women of color often face in advancing their careers.She sheds light on the “hidden curriculums” that influence career growth, the critical role of community, and why documentation is essential for performance reviews and promotions. Smith also describes how STEM So(ul)cial, a hub for aspiring and established Black STEM professionals, is empowering Black STEM professionals through community-building and resource-sharing.
This episode is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. In this episode of Diverse, Trisha Marks, director of security technology operations at the U.S. Department of State, shares her incredible journey as a trailblazing woman in engineering with host Larry Guthrie, SWE’s director of content strategy. Marks reflects on her upbringing in Brooklyn, where her father’s work sparked her interest in engineering, and takes us through her global career spanning over two decades, including assignments in Iraq, China, and Mongolia.She dives into the evolving challenges of security engineering, the transformative power of mentorship, and the importance of building supportive communities for women in STEM. Marks also shares how organizations like National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and SWE have helped in shaping her career and offers practical advice for aspiring engineers interested in exploring opportunities at the State Department.
Louvere Walker-Hannon, application engineer senior team lead at MathWorks, joins us for this episode of Diverse to unpack the concept of weathering — the physical toll chronic stress takes on the human body, especially among women of color. In conversation with host Inaas Darrat, SWE president-elect, Walker-Hannon shares her inspiring journey in STEM, starting with a love for archaeology, and reflects on the challenges she’s faced as a woman of color in engineering. Together, they explore the systemic barriers that contribute to health disparities and underrepresentation in STEM fields.Walker-Hannon also delves into the hidden toll of systemic challenges, exploring how adversity can shape resilience and inspire change. She unpacks the ripple effects of chronic stress on health, the power of community awareness, and the transformative potential of advocacy.
In this episode of Diverse, Ucheonye Maple, leadership expert, author, and founder of the Women Who Leap Community, explores the evolving landscape of leadership in high-stakes industries like aerospace and defense, emphasizing the crucial role of empathy, communication, and adaptability. Uche shares her insights on how leaders can foster diverse, innovative teams by understanding the end users of their products, embracing continuous learning, and overcoming biases. From navigating generational differences to building inclusive work environments, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways for leaders at all levels. Plus, Ucheonye Maple is also the keynote speaker at SWE’s WE Local Conference in San Jose, Calif. Visit welocal.swe.org for more details.
In this episode of Diverse, host Tracy White, who leads SWE's Mid-Career Professionals Affinity Group, sits down with past SWE Presidents Stacey DelVecchio and Colleen Scholl to explore their journeys into senior management.They share insights on mentorship, senior-level interviews, adapting communication styles, and redefining work-life balance. Learn practical strategies for embracing flexibility, understanding your value, and inspiring teams.Plus, you’ll gain valuable advice on embracing flexibility, understanding your worth, and inspiring teams at any level. This episode is a must-listen for anyone aspiring to lead with confidence and purpose!
In this episode of Diverse, host Alyssa Acosta, co-lead of SWE’s Early Career Professionals Affinity Group (ECP AG), sits down with guests MP Delisle, past ECP AG co-lead, and Amber Krecemen, ECP AG co-founder, to discuss the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from college to professional life as women engineers. They share personal insights on the importance of mentorship, the power of networking, and how the Society of Women Engineers and SWE’s ECP AG have been instrumental in their journeys.From finding your community to embracing leadership opportunities, this conversation offers actionable advice for engineers at the start of their careers. Learn how SWE creates a unique space for women in engineering to grow, connect, and thrive — professionally and personally.
This episode is sponsored by GE Vernova and GE Aerospace.As SWE celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2025, join us as we reflect on GE’s deep-rooted commitment to the organization, dating back to 1961 when it became one of the first companies to donate to SWE. Guests Megan Stewart of GE Vernova and Kim Hammer of GE Aerospace discuss how employee-led initiatives, competitive tactics, and executive support fostered a culture of giving and mentorship in the organization. They also share how fundraising strategies evolved during the COVID-19 pandemic and the new initiatives they introduced like STEM for STEM to sustain engagement. Packed with insights, this episode celebrates the transformative power of community-driven efforts and the critical role of mentorship in empowering the next generation of women engineers.
In this inspiring episode of Diverse, Enanga Daisy Fâlé, senior systems engineering manager at Northrop Grumman, explores her dynamic career in aerospace. Enanga shares the pivotal experiences and influences that sparked her passion for STEM and led to her leadership role in systems engineering.The conversation also highlights groundbreaking innovations in aerospace technology, the role of AI and simulation, and the critical need for systems thinking. Enanga also reflects on her impactful contributions to the Society of Women Engineers, offering insights on work-life balance and mentorship. She concludes with empowering advice for women aspiring to excel in aerospace, emphasizing the value of experience, focus, and intentionality.
Two sisters earned degrees in electrical engineering — but from there, their careers diverged into different paths.Jeanne Trinko Mechler, fellow at Marvell, followed the technical track, and Donna Trinko Majcen, vice president and general manager of the global services portfolio at Keysight Technologies, pursued the management track.In conversation with FY25 SWE President Karen Roth, Trinko Mechler and Trinko Majcen share insights from their 65+ years of combined experience to help women engineers maximize their careers, take calculated risks, and decide whether to pursue a technical or management path in STEM.
In 2020, longtime SWE member Eileen Vélez-Vega made history as the first woman to be appointed Secretary and CEO of the Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works.In this conversation, recorded live at WE24, she reflects on her inspiring STEM journey and the unique pivots along the way: from being the first engineer in her family, to interning at NASA and Walt Disney World, to building a successful engineering career and ultimately leading a state government agency.Interviewed by Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at SWE, Vélez-Vega wraps up her term as Secretary and discusses the power of perseverance, the role SWE has played in her career, and how being a Latina in engineering has served as a superpower.
This episode is sponsored by Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD).Emma Quentin, vice president of urology critical care and surgery at BD, shares her inspiring journey from chemical engineer to global health care leader in this episode of Diverse.In conversation with Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at SWE, Quentin discusses the role curiosity plays in both engineering and leadership and the pivotal moments when others believed in her potential before she did. Hear how to overcome "superwoman syndrome," why leaders must prioritize the mental health of their teams, and advice for embracing imperfection and growth throughout your STEM career.
Trevor George, co-lead of SWE's HeForSWE Affinity Group, and Luke Ciccone, collegiate engagement chair of SWE’s HeForSWE Affinity Group, offer actionable advice for men looking to support women in STEM in this episode of Diverse.In conversation with Ashley Wynne, co-lead of the HeForSWE AG, George and Ciccone share their personal stories of allyship in engineering, including real-life examples of what allyship can look like in the workplace. From holding mentoring conversations, to assigning non-promotable work in an equitable way, to standing up to leadership when needed, the group explores ways to address gender bias at both the collegiate and professional levels.
Megan Casey, mechanical engineer and engineering manager, reflects on how to navigate returning to work as a postpartum engineer in conversation with FY25 SWE President Karen Roth.Drawing from her personal experiences, Casey shares the challenges of transitioning back to the workplace after two pregnancies: one that was medically complicated and another with twins.Hear the strengths she gained during the postpartum period, self-advocacy strategies that engineers can use when returning to work, and actionable ways that leaders can foster an inclusive environment for birthing parents in STEM.
Dr. Teenie Matlock, professor emerita of cognitive science at the University of California, Merced and active member of the Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation, joins us in this episode of Diverse to honor Native American Heritage Month. Interviewed by Laurie Shuster, editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine, Dr. Matlock shares how her heritage shaped her upbringing, educational journey, perspective, and career in the sciences.Hear the challenges and opportunities Indigenous women face in STEM, the importance of fostering inclusive environments, and Dr. Matlock’s vision for increased representation in leadership. Plus, learn how to get involved with Advancing Indigenous Peoples in STEM (AISES), one of SWE’s joint member partner organizations.
Kelli Easterly, executive director of STEM at Chicago Public Schools, and Eleonora Chakraborty, president of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Chicago Regional Section, share their unique STEM outreach partnership in this episode recorded live at WE24.In conversation with Karen Horting, CEO and executive director of SWE, the group discusses “Invent It. Build It.,” an outreach event that inspired CPS students, parents, and educators to explore engineering through hands-on STEM activities.Hear the story of how this partnership began, creative ways to engage future engineering leaders, and advice for SWE sections who want to partner with school districts to make a difference in their communities.
Dr. Laurie E. Locascio, U.S. Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), reflects on the implementation of the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act which appropriated over $52 billion for semiconductor manufacturing, research and development, and workforce training and education. In conversation with Karen Horting, executive director and CEO of the Society of Women Engineers, Dr. Locascio discusses how this legislation is shaping the future of the U.S. semiconductor industry and why organizations like SWE are essential to its success.Dr. Locascio shares insights on workforce development and efforts to increase the representation of women and underrepresented groups in STEM, including apprenticeships, upskilling, retraining, and returnships.
Learn how women can position themselves at the forefront of future mega construction projects in this episode of Diverse!Catherine Hunt Ryan, president of Bechtel’s Manufacturing and Technology business, discusses the pivotal role women play in infrastructure projects in conversation with FY25 SWE President Karen Roth.Hear about the evolving global landscape for women engineers, Hunt Ryan’s own career journey and the impact she hopes to leave, and a sneak peek of her upcoming keynote at WE24.
Jennifer McAndrew from Tufts University’s Tisch College of Civic Life explores the critical issue of voter turnout among STEM students with Dr. Roberta Rincon, director of research and impact at SWE. McAndrew dives into findings from the recent "Democracy Counts 2022" report from the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement, explores why collegians in STEM majors may be harder to mobilize than those in other fields and identifies strategies that can boost civic participation. Recorded on National Voter Registration Day, this conversation offers insights into increasing collegiate voting in the lead-up to the U.S. elections.
This episode is sponsored by Discover Financial Services. The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests, in their individual capacity, and not necessarily those of Discover.Three leaders at Discover Financial Services discuss their career journeys in tech, their insights on AI and emerging technologies, and how they have built communities of support as women of color in the field.Hear insights from Stephanie Jefferson, senior associate IT service management specialist; Yixiu Li, director of generative AI modeling; and Natasha Perez, senior manager of product enablement.
Shelley Knust, vice president of product compliance and regulatory affairs at Cummins Inc., discusses her approach to courageous leadership in this episode of Diverse.Interviewed by FY25 SWE President Karen Roth, Knust reflects on a pivotal moment in her career when she made an impact on her colleagues by embracing her authentic self. She also shares several unique initiatives that empower engineers to bring their full selves to work and offers a sneak peek into her closing keynote talk at WE24.
For women engineers who want to climb the corporate ladder, putting your head down and doing your job is often not enough. Susan Colantuono, TED speaker and founder of Be Business Savvy, shares the key business and strategic skills to help women get ahead in conversation with Laurie Shuster, editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine. Hear Colantuono’s practical tips to understand your employer’s market positioning, promote your achievements effectively, and be perceived as a leader in STEM.Learn more about the skills women engineers need to climb the corporate ladder in the Conference 2024 issue of SWE Magazine.
Jenna Henderson, co-lead of SWE’s Women in Government Affinity Group, explores how innovation aligns with this year’s theme of “Together We Rise” with FY25 SWE President Karen Roth.Interviewed by Jennifer Dalzell, co-lead of the Women in Government Affinity Group, the discussion explores the challenges and opportunities that come with embracing innovation in engineering, particularly in the public sector. Hear why diversity fuels innovation, how to handle resistance when changing the status quo, and practical advice for women engineers looking to lead the way in their fields.
Enjoy a fireside chat with two women who were recently recognized on the Forbes “50 Over 50” list in this episode of Diverse!Karen Horting, CEO and executive director of SWE, sits down with Dr. Carlotta Berry, professor at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and founder of NoireSTEMinist, to discuss their respective work to increase STEM access.Horting and Dr. Berry reflect on what they are most proud of, how their perspectives on leadership have evolved over time, and the unique intersections of their passions, including Berry’s creative venture into writing romance novels featuring Black characters in STEM fields.
Explore an outreach success story from one of SWE’s 400+ Collegiate Sections in this episode of Diverse!Sofie Zalatimo, elementary outreach chair at Cal Poly SWE, and Shayne Conner, vice president of community outreach at Cal Poly SWE, dive into the details of Cal Poly SWE’s annual "Fourth Grade Days" event, which reached over 1,500 students this year. In conversation with FY25 SWE President Karen Roth, Zalatimo and Conner share behind-the-scenes insights into managing event volunteers, creating age-appropriate activities, and inspiring the next generation of leaders by exposing pre-college students to STEM.
Sharon Hong, vice president of ecosystem solutions and video sales engineering at Motorola Solutions, explores how engineers can unlock fear, overcome imposter syndrome, and unleash their full potential in this episode of Diverse.In conversation with FY25 SWE President Karen Roth, Hong discusses her inspiring STEM journey and leadership roles in the security and safety sectors. She also provides a preview of her upcoming WE24 keynote address.
Melissa Marshall, TED speaker and founder of Present Your Science, shares actionable advice to help scientists and engineers share their work to non-technical audiences in this episode of Diverse.Hear practical tips for improving your presentation skills, plus two key communication pitfalls to avoid. Marshall offers additional insights on the role of visual aids in slides, building confidence, and how AI is impacting the future of communication in STEM.
Dive into SWE’s award-winning Academic Leadership for Women in Engineering (ALWE) program with two inspiring engineers who are making their mark!Dr. Gisella Lamas, FY25 chair of SWE’s Women in Academia Committee, and Dr. Sanjana Yagnambhatt, member of SWE’s Women in Academia Committee, share their personal experiences as participants in the ALWE program.Hear what inspired them to pursue careers in academia, the lessons from ALWE that influenced them the most, and why the leadership skills and diverse community that ALWE provides are imperative in the academic space.
Negotiation happens every day in the workplace — from negotiating a job offer, to pushing back on a proposed initiative, to simply saying no.In this episode of Diverse, author, speaker, and leadership consultant Selena Rezvani shares actionable tips to help women engineers improve their negotiation skills and become their own self-advocates.Hear strategies and scripts to start tricky conversations, overcome common objections, and manage trade-offs. Rezvani shares a personal story that influences the way she sees negotiation and discusses the importance of mentors and peer networks.
Learn how endowed scholarships work and how they make an impact on the next generation of women engineers in this episode of Diverse!Mary Zeis, SWENext coordinator for the SWE Pittsburgh Section, and Jessica Dresang, vice president & project manager with Carollo Engineers, share their personal motivations behind endowing scholarships with SWE in conversation with FY24 SWE President Alexis McKittrick.Hear what differentiates an endowed scholarship from other forms of giving, how endowed scholarships work behind the scenes, and why they are an ideal option for those looking to leave a long-term legacy.
Every day around the world, engineers get dressed to go to work. But due to a variety of appearance-based biases, picking out what to wear can be complicated for some women in STEM.Lindarti Purwaningsih, principal process engineer, integration engineering at GlobalFoundries, delves into the societal norms, biases, and personal experiences that shape the way women engineers dress in the workplace in this episode of Diverse.Drawing from her popular talk at WE Local Munich, Purwaningsih explores how dressing authentically can empower women in engineering and how organizations and leaders can foster a more inclusive workplace environment for all.
In this episode of Diverse, Diniece Mendes, director of the office of freight mobility at the New York City Department of Transportation, and Monica Morales, water resources engineer and project manager at Jacobs, share their experiences of being featured in the IMAX film “Cities of the Future.” In conversation with Laurie Shuster, editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine, Mendes and Morales discuss the surprising aspects of being part of a movie, how it has impacted their careers, and valuable networking advice for women engineers looking to create unique opportunities for themselves.Learn more about the women who are bringing engineering to the screen in the Summer 2024 issue of SWE Magazine.
On July 1, 2024, Karen Roth assumes the role of President of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), concluding Dr. Alexis McKittrick’s one-year term as SWE President. In this episode, McKittrick sits down with Roth to pass the torch, offer words of advice, and share her favorite moments and memories of helping over 47,000 women in STEM “Live Without Limits” over the past year.Roth discusses why she chose “Together We Rise” as her theme, reflects on what she’s most excited about for the year ahead, and shares the impact that SWE has had on her life, personal growth, and career.
Explore the many ways that engineers can get involved with public policy ― from learning about the issues, to speaking to legislators, to even running for office!Jenny Tsao, lead of the SWE Public Policy Affinity Group, provides tips for women in STEM who want to start getting involved in public policy. Katherine Culbert, engineer and candidate for Texas Railroad Commission, unpacks her decision to run for office and the lessons she has learned through this experience. Host Karen Horting, CEO and executive director of SWE, moderates the discussion and shares her public policy memories and experiences, including with SWE’s annual Congressional Visit Days.Please note that as a 501(c)(3) organization, SWE is strictly nonpartisan and cannot endorse political candidates.
In this episode of Diverse, SWE Senator and Global Ambassador Blanca Rosa Navarro Piedra shares her inspiring journey, from being the first SWE member in Costa Rica to establishing two SWE affiliates in the countryIn conversation with FY24 SWE President Alexis McKittrick, Ph.D., Navarro Piedra details her advocacy work in Costa Rica, including several joint outreach projects with international partners.Hear her advice for those who want to advance women in engineering around the globe, as well as the story of how Navarro Piedra got started in a STEM career.
Working moms in STEM face a unique set of challenges, and they don’t always get the support they need in the workplace. Heather Ulrich, new product introduction program manager at Caterpillar, joins us on this episode to share how she started a moms group in her company to provide connection, resources, and support for working moms.Hear the steps Ulrich took to bring this group to life, the biggest challenge faced along the way, discussion topics the group covers, and advice on how listeners can establish moms groups in their own organizations.
Prachi Tomar, associate engineer and AI research analyst at Exelaration, shares how she pivoted from mechanical engineering to software engineering on this episode of Diverse: a SWE podcast.Hear practical steps that engineers can take to enter the software field, how women in STEM can position themselves to succeed in the world of AI, and Tomar’s reflections on moving to the U.S. as an international student.
Carey Smith, chair, president, and CEO of Parsons Corporation, joins us on this episode of Diverse: a SWE podcast to discuss her journey from engineer to corporate leader.Hear which skills from Smith’s engineering background were most valuable as she took on higher leadership roles, the global infrastructure trends and challenges she sees on the horizon, and her reflections on how diversity leads to a more inclusive and engaged workforce.
Vidhya Thiyagarajan, FY24 SWE collegiate director and an associate scientist in chemical commercialization technology at Merck, joins us on this episode of Diverse to shine a light on the SWE collegiate experience.Interviewed by Karen Horting, CEO and executive director of SWE, Thiyagarajan reflects on starting a SWENext Club at her high school and getting involved with SWE at the University of Pittsburgh.Hear her tips for making the most of SWE during college and her advice for women and girls who are thinking about pursuing engineering.
To celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month while acknowledging that May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, the SWE Asian Connections Affinity Group shines a light on mental health stigmas in Asian cultures in this episode.Vandana Khanna, head of global digital finance transformation at Kenvue, shares her personal experiences and discusses how companies can better promote mental health awareness. Dr. Katherine Nguyen Williams, clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of California, San Diego and supervising psychologist at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego, discusses the cultural nuances she has encountered in addressing mental health within the Asian community.Sarah Koenig, associate director for manufacturing cost modeling at Pratt & Whitney, a division of RTX, moderates this important conversation.
Mrinal Karvir, senior software AI engineering manager at Intel, joins us on this episode of Diverse to shed light on the different types of biases that exist in AI systems and the impacts of each one.Hear how Karvir became passionate about the field of responsible AI and her reflections on what is being done across the industry to reduce bias in this technology.You can learn more about bias and other ethical challenges within AI in the Spring 2024 issue of SWE Magazine.
In addition to her role as process development manager at Boston Scientific, Nichole Elff (she/her) is one of the fastest drag racers in the world! She joins us on this episode of Diverse to discuss her journey and share how hobbies can improve your leadership potential in the workplace.Hear how Elff got started with drag racing and modifying cars, how to integrate your hobbies into your professional brand, and her reflections on being a woman leader in the male-dominated fields of engineering and drag racing.
Wendy Cocke, founder of Engineering Leadership Solutions, shares actionable advice on how to run your engineering career like a small business, embrace flexibility, and navigate the future of work in this episode of Diverse.In conversation with FY24 SWE President Alexis McKittrick, Cocke also reflects on the impact SWE has had on her career, including a story of how several SWE members helped refine her WE Local Baltimore keynote address.
Inaas Darrat (she/her), director of chemical sector services at Trinity Consultants, joins us on this episode of Diverse to share her journey as a chemical engineer and her insights on how to make STEM fields more welcoming to all.Darrat reflects on her experiences as an Arab American woman in engineering, including common misconceptions, the positive changes she has seen over time, and ideas for listeners who want to become stronger allies.Hear how she course-corrected her career by leaving a Ph.D. program, her leadership advice for women engineers, and her own experiences of overcoming unconscious bias.
Two accomplished STEM leaders joined us live in the WE23 Diverse Podcast Studio to share emerging trends and career advancement tips in the public and private sectors.Tamika Abbott, director, office of security technology at the U.S. Department of State, discusses innovations in the security space and details her career journey in the public sector that included missions across the globe.Jackie Reeves, director of IT operations - endpoint solutions at Abbott, reflects on the latest developments in the medical technology industry and shares her experience of reentering the workforce after a career break.
Dive into the stories of Nora Stanton Blatch Barney and Elsie Eaves, two pioneering women engineers who shaped the landscape of STEM, in this episode of “Tales From the Archives,” a sub-series of Diverse.Troy Eller English (she/her), chief archivist at SWE, explores how these women defied the norms of their time and blazed the trail for the women engineers of today. She shares the career advice Eaves offered to women engineers in the 1930s and encourages present-day listeners to reflect on their own roles in shaping STEM history.
This episode is sponsored by NASCAR.Andrea Mueller, engineer with Penske Racing, and Brandon Thompson, vice president of diversity and inclusion at NASCAR, joined us on this episode of Diverse to discuss how NASCAR is fostering diversity in motorsports.Interviewed by Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at SWE, Mueller reflects on her career journey and details how she pivoted from aerospace engineering to racing engineering. Thompson shares about NASCAR’s efforts to develop pathways for the next generation of STEM professionals, including an innovative new fellowship program.
Women and people of color have often been hidden figures in STEM, with their important contributions going unrecognized. In honor of Women’s History Month, Karen Horting, CEO and executive director of SWE, sat down with Dr. Jess Wade, physicist and faculty member at Imperial College London, who has been working to change this. Dr. Wade has created thousands of Wikipedia pages that highlight the achievements of women scientists and engineers. In this episode, she shares her own STEM journey, the inspiration behind her Wikipedia initiative and the unexpected surprises she has learned along the way. You’ll also hear her tips for listeners who want to increase the visibility of underrepresented communities in STEM fields — on Wikipedia and beyond.
In this episode, Gabriela Coe and Dr. Mary Bonk Isaac of the SWE Late Career & Retiree Affinity Group share important insights from their engineering careers, including their personal experiences with navigating the underrepresentation of women in STEM.Hear their advice for women engineers approaching late career and retirement — plus, learn about their advocacy work that is encouraging women and girls to pursue engineering.Hang Loi of the SWE Late Career & Retiree Affinity Group moderates this conversation and shines a light on how SWE’s Affinity Groups unite members with shared identities, interests and goals.
Author Elaine Lin Hering (she/her) joined us in the WE23 Diverse Podcast Studio to dive into what allyship truly means and its relationship to learned silence.Interviewed by Larry Guthrie (he/him), director of content strategy at SWE, Lin Hering explores the ways that individuals and organizations unintentionally silence marginalized voices and how to change course.She also offers ways to support your teams in speaking up, insights on how to unlearn silence within yourself, and experiments to help you use your voice to advocate for yourself and others.
Engineer, TV host and STEM advocate Tamara Robertson (she/her) joined us in the WE23 Diverse Podcast Studio to discuss her efforts to instill hope in the next generation of tinkerers and engineers.Interviewed by FY24 SWE President Alexis McKittrick (she/her), Robertson shares the story of walking away from her corporate engineering job to focus on getting more women into STEM careers.Hear the events that led to Robertson’s role on “MythBusters,” why comic books and superhero science are natural platforms for STEM outreach, and how SWE’s Invent It. Build It. program is helping future engineers build their skills and confidence.
Deysi Melgar, a longtime facilitator of SWE’s Invent It. Build It. pre-college outreach program, joined us at the WE23 Diverse Podcast Studio to discuss her inspiring career journey and her passion for introducing students to engineering.Interviewed by Larry Guthrie, director of content strategy at SWE, Melgar reflects on how she balances multiple passions such as dance, STEM outreach and her full-time career in the aviation sector.Plus, hear how being a contestant on PBS’s “Design Squad” fueled her interest in engineering and the advice Melgar would give to her teenage self.
Neema Nair (she/her), design & analysis engineering leader for the engine business of Cummins India, joined us live in the WE23 Diverse Podcast Studio to share her experiences of living and working as an engineer in both the U.S. and India. Interviewed by Laurie Shuster (she/her), editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine, Nair sheds light on the key similarities and differences for women pursuing STEM careers in these cultures. Hear her reflections on authentic networking, retaining women in the workforce, avoiding common career pitfalls and advocating for important causes within the workplace.
Alden Sherrill and Eleanor Lyons, two inspiring high school students, joined us live in the WE23 Diverse Podcast Studio to share their journeys, including their mentors in STEM.Interviewed by Karen Horting, CEO and executive director of SWE, Lyons and Sherrill reflect on their hands-on experiences in programs such as SWENext, FIRST, and Apple’s Engineering Technology Camp.Also, hear about their future plans, their story of meeting Tim Cook, and their advice on how professional engineers can better support and uplift the STEM leaders of the next generation.
In this episode, explore how two women engineers navigated workplace stress and imposter syndrome and ultimately found fulfillment by helping others.Yanet Borrego (she/her), self-mastery coach and speaker, shares about the challenges of high-stress STEM environments and her career pivot from chemical engineering to self-mastery coaching. Cary Kaczowka (she/her), program manager at RTX, reflects on her experiences of teaching sailing and engine maintenance classes to women and discusses the importance of secondary passions for stress relief. You can discover more about their stories in the Winter 2024 issue of SWE Magazine.
Early career engineers face a unique set of challenges, from navigating new jobs to approaching unfamiliar tasks to assessing whether a workplace is truly the right fit.In this episode, sit in on a mentoring session with Jenni Johnson (she/her), co-lead of the SWE Early Career Professionals Affinity Group, and her real-life mentor Liz San Miguel (she/her) of the SWE Mid-Career Professionals Affinity Group where they discuss these topics.Learn how to figure out if a company is the right place for your long-term growth, strategies to change sectors within engineering and why having a mentor can be life-changing for early career engineers.
This episode is sponsored by Fortune Brands Innovations.In this episode of Diverse, we dive into the world of international engineering projects with Gretchen Curry, director of quality, North America, at Fortune Brands Innovations.Curry shares her inspiring journey from chemical engineer to leading global projects, including a notable plant startup in Singapore. Hear her insights on navigating international teams and climbing the career ladder as a working mom, plus learn how Fortune Brands Innovations is supporting women engineers in its workforce.
Morénike Giwa Onaiwu joined us live in the WE23 Diverse Podcast Studio to share insights on inclusion and equity, particularly for the neurodivergent community.Interviewed by Laurie Shuster, editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine, Giwa Onaiwu discusses their journey as an advocate, educator and founder of the nonprofit Advocacy Without Borders.Learn the best piece of advice Giwa Onaiwu ever received, what drives her commitment to social justice, and practical ideas that STEM workplaces can implement to become more accessible to all.
This episode is sponsored by Tetra Pak.When you sit down to enjoy your favorite food and drinks, do you ever think about the engineers who made that meal possible? Meet Samantha Bzdawka and Alexus Heldt, two Tetra Pak engineers at different points in their careers who specialize in the equipment that makes cheese and other dairy products. On this episode of Diverse, they discuss the important role engineers play in supporting our food systems.
Dr. Ashley Huderson, STEM and CS Equity Fellow with the U.S. Department of Education, joins us live in the WE23 Diverse Podcast Studio to share about building STEM education and career pathways for individuals in underrepresented communities.In conversation with Karen Horting, Executive Director and CEO of SWE, Dr Huderson details policies and programs that increase STEM access and exposure, such as the “YOU Belong in STEM” initiative.She also reflects on the best advice from her father, the gifts that come with failure, and why students don’t need straight A’s to achieve success.Dr. Huderson is currently on sabbatical.
This episode is sponsored by Bechtel.Dive into the intersection of manufacturing, leadership, and technology with Catherine Hunt Ryan, President of Bechtel’s Manufacturing & Technology business.Recorded live at the WE23 Diverse Podcast Studio, Hunt Ryan explores recent legislation and trends that are shaping the manufacturing landscape in this interview with SWE Past President Dayna Johnson. Hunt Ryan also reflects on why women are key to overcoming the construction labor shortage and details the career journey that took her from political science student to her current role at Bechtel.
Jay Flores, founder of Invent the Change, joins us live at the WE23 Podcast Studio to discuss his mission to engage more students in STEM.Interviewed by FY24 SWE President Elect Karen Roth, Flores shares the moments that propelled him into the world of STEM outreach and advocacy.Hear about his experience on NBC’s "American Ninja Warrior," his vision for empowering the next generation of engineers, and the “It's Not Magic, It's Science” program that Flores brought to SWE’s Invent It. Build It. event at WE23.
Claudine Schmuck, founder of the Gender Scan survey, joins us live in the WE23 Podcast Studio to share the latest data on the gender balance in STEM across the globe. In conversation with FY24 SWE President Alexis McKittrick, Schmuck sheds light on the challenges and opportunities faced by women engineers worldwide. She also shares data-driven practical steps to foster inclusivity in STEM at both the individual and policy levels.
This episode is sponsored by RTX.Layra Reza, Associate Director of Operations and Supply Chain at RTX, joins us on this episode of Diverse to share her insights on taking risks, embracing challenges, and overcoming personal and professional adversity.We delve into Reza’s story of immigrating to the U.S. at age 19 and how that experience influenced her as a leader. She also shares tips on how to overcome the fear of failure, the unique story of how she became an engineer, and insights from her 14-year career with RTX.
Peek behind the curtain of SWE’s eXXec program in this episode of Diverse! FY24 SWE President Alexis McKittrick and Lauren Kegley, Automotive Marketing Manager of Discrete Power Devices at Wolfspeed, share their experiences as participants in the eXXec program. Dr. Kim Warren-Martin moderates this conversation as the facilitator of eXXec.Hear about the lessons from eXXec that influenced them the most, how the program helps engineers embrace their unique leadership qualities, and why it’s important for women in STEM to grow their leadership skills at the executive level.
This episode is sponsored by BD.In this episode of Diverse, we sit down with Grisel Quiles, Senior Director of Reagents Manufacturing at BD Biosciences.Learn how working the night shift early in Quiles’s career changed the course of her life, her favorite self-coaching tools for professional success, and the emerging manufacturing industry trends that she finds the most exciting. Plus, she shares about her experiences in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, which struck Puerto Rico in 2017.
In this episode, Holly Maudsley, Pilot Plant and Product Development Manager at 3M, shares her personal experiences with ADHD and provides insight on how to better support neurodiverse folks in the STEM workforce.Maudsley covers the different types of neurodiversity, the accommodations needed to make everyone successful, strategies for self-advocacy, and real-world examples of how to foster inclusion for those with ADHD, autism, dyspraxia, dyslexia, and other cognitive differences.
Joannie Fu, Vice President of the Network & Edge Group (NEX) Execution Office at Intel, joins SWE CEO & Executive Director Karen Horting on this episode to discuss building a more inclusive tech sector.Fu reflects on her experience of being out at work as a member of the LGBTQ+ community in the early 2000s, along with the industry changes she has seen since that time.Hear the best career advice Fu ever received, how her background as an architect and structural engineer has influenced her leadership style, and what every STEM leader can do to create more inclusive environments at work.
In this episode, TEDxWomen speaker and leadership coach Tanya Geisler dives into the phenomenon of the imposter complex and provides actionable tools to help women in STEM cultivate more confidence.Geisler shares why she doesn’t call it “imposter syndrome” along with tangible ways to identify your unique version of imposter complex in the moment and overcome these thoughts when they strike. Plus, hear about the “golden shadow” of imposter complex and the hidden strengths that it can reveal underneath.
In this episode, Diverse features Kate Maxwell, CTO, Defense & Intelligence, Worldwide Public Sector, Microsoft.Interviewed by FY24 SWE President Alexis McKittrick, Maxwell delves into the worlds of artificial intelligence and defense, reflects on her experiences as one of the “Top 100 Women in Tech,” and gives a sneak peek of her WE23 keynote.She also shares about SWE’s impact on her career and outlines the tangible benefits that diversity brings to the tech industry.
This episode is sponsored by BD.Explore the realm of STEM recruitment and youth outreach with Mel Fisher, Training & Development Leader at BD Plymouth UK, on this episode of Diverse.She shares her insights on the STEM workforce skills gap and what she is hearing from young women in her outreach efforts, as well as a personal anecdote on imposter syndrome and BD’s innovative programs to support the next generation of engineering leaders.
Welcome to an episode of “Un Cafecito With a Woman in STEM,” a sub-series of Diverse: a SWE Podcast. In this episode, Lennis Perez, the Hispanic Heritage Month Lead within SWE’s Latinos Affinity Group, speaks with Dr. Justina Sanchez, Quality Engineer at TÜV SÜD. Dr. Sanchez shares about how she started her STEM journey as an administrative assistant, what a typical day looks like for a product safety engineer, and her new book that celebrates women in engineering.
This episode is sponsored by The Aerospace Corporation.
Dr. Debra Emmons, Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at The Aerospace Corporation, joins SWE Executive Director and CEO Karen Horting to discuss diversity initiatives in the aerospace industry, including the Space Workforce 2030 pledge.
Dr. Emmons also reflects on her favorite space-related moments, emerging aerospace trends, and her top piece of advice for women in leadership.
Dive into the dynamic world of hardware development with Sera Evcimen, Founder and Technical Director of Pratik Development! As a mechanical engineer, startup mentor, and hardware enthusiast, Sera has amassed a wealth of experience in industries from space exploration to robotics. In this episode, she highlights the future of hardware development, shares exciting advancements in climate tech, and reflects on how to close the gender gap in hardware engineering.
This episode is sponsored by Smith+Nephew.
Join us as we sit down with three leaders from Smith+Nephew to discuss their career journeys, their insights in the medical technology field, and the company’s mentorship programs that are supporting women in STEM.
Hear insights from Kalavati Bhashyam, Senior Director of Hardware Engineering, Robotics and Enabling Technologies; Angela Mejia, Senior Quality Director of Arthroscopic Enabling Technologies; and Dr. Runi Brownhill, Director of Strategic Sciences, Wound Management R&D.
Dive into the SWE Awards Program with FY24 SWE President Alexis McKittrick, FY24 Awards Implementation Lead Pamela Morison, and FY23-24 Director Inaas Darrat. In this episode, they share the significance of recognizing women in STEM, the history of the SWE Awards Program, and the upcoming changes that will make the program more inclusive.
In this episode, SWE CEO and Executive Director Karen Horting sits down with Maryam Brown, the President of SoCalGas. Listen as Karen and Maryam discuss the clean energy transition, the most unexpected lesson of Maryam’s career, and what Maryam plans to share in her upcoming WE23 keynote address.
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work as an engineer in the public sector? In this episode, join Jenni Dalzell and Jenna Lynn Henderson, Co-Leads of the SWE Women in Government Affinity Group, along with FY24 SWE President Alexis McKittrick as they discuss career paths for engineers in public service and government.
You’ll also learn about the Affinity Group and how it creates connections and professional development opportunities for women engineers in this sector.
This episode was sponsored by Fortune Brands Innovations.
Women in STEM can find themselves in a steady stream of challenges ― from juggling work-life balance to navigating organizational pressures to trying to “do it all” at the expense of their own well-being.
In this episode, Teren Branson, Senior Director of Engineering at Fortune Brands Innovations, details her journey as an engineer and how to embrace the personal and professional challenges that occur along the way.
Branson also shares the invaluable advice she received at her first SWE conference, a decision in her career that she would not make again, and how Fortune Brands Innovations is driving change worldwide.
On July 1, 2023, Dr. Alexis McKittrick assumes the role of President of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), concluding Dayna Johnson’s one-year term as SWE President.
In this episode, Dayna sits down with Alexis to pass the torch, offer words of advice, and share her favorite moments and achievements from her time as SWE President.
Alexis discusses her top three areas of focus for SWE, as well as her career journey to this point and why she chose “Live Without Limits” as her theme for the upcoming year.
An active-duty lieutenant colonel and astronautical engineer in the U.S. Space Force, Bree Fram (she/her) is one of the highest-ranking out transgender officers in the U.S. military. In this episode, she sits down with host Sam East (she/her) to discuss her journey, both professional and personal.
Hear how an early interest in Star Trek led to Fram's passion for space and STEM, what progress she has seen for the LGBTQ+ community in the military, and why organizations benefit from prioritizing diversity, vulnerability, and authenticity in the workplace.
June 23rd is International Women in Engineering Day ― a day to highlight the achievements of women in engineering, as well as to address the disparities that women experience in STEM fields.
To celebrate, Neeraja Ganesh, TEDx speaker and WE Local Bengaluru keynote speaker, sat down with SWE President Dayna Johnson to share her thoughts on mindset and leadership for women in engineering on this episode of Diverse: a SWE podcast.
Hear Neeraja’s six tips to overcome imposter syndrome, how her 25-year career in STEM led to a passion for global gender equity, and what policies companies can adopt to better support women in the engineering workforce.
In honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, this episode highlights the personal stories of Hang Loi and Dr. Tracy Nguyen, two Asian American women in STEM who escaped Vietnam as children during the fall of Saigon.They sat down with SWE Board Member Jennifer Chen Morikawa to share their unforgettable accounts of the refugee experience, what they went through to start a new life in the U.S., and how these experiences influenced them to pursue careers in STEM.
This episode was sponsored by the U.S. Space Force.In this episode, we speak with Major Melissa K. Bierma, Chief, Information Integration Branch HQ, United States Space Force (USSF), located in the Pentagon. Major Bierma shares about her early mentorship experiences as an engineer, the gifts that come with failure, and what advice she would give to women who are interested in a career in the U.S. Space Force.About Our Guest:Major Melissa K. Bierma is the Chief, Information Integration Branch, HQ United States Space Force, Pentagon. In this capacity, she is responsible for integrating the USSF into Joint and DAF future warfighting concepts, reviewing emerging technologies to implement CSO priorities, and aligning wargaming efforts across the USSF enterprise. Major Bierma earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio, and subsequently commissioned through Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corp, Detachment 643 in March 2006. In addition, she also earned a Master of Science in industrial and human factors engineering from Wright State University in 2012. She transferred to the USSF in December 2020.
On this episode of Diverse, a SWE Podcast, FY23 President Dayna Johnson is joined by Mandeep Gill the Technical Documentation, Labeling, and UXD Portfolio Manager from Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD) Greater India R&D. They sit down to discuss her draw to STEM, her educational journey, and her work with coaching and mentoring young women.
In this episode of Diverse, host SWE CEO Karen Horting talks with Major Melissa K. Bierma, Chief, Information Integration Branch, HQ United States Space Force, Pentagon. In this capacity, she is responsible for integrating the USSF into Joint and DAF future warfighting concepts, reviewing emerging technologies to implement CSO priorities, and aligning wargaming efforts across the USSF enterprise.
Starr Ginn- the Advanced Air Mobility Lead Strategist at NASA- discusses the upcoming 2023 AIAA Aviation Forum and reflects on her journey to NASA.
Ana Sopalovic discusses how her upbringing ignited her passion for mechanical engineering which ultimately lead her to TAE.
What do STEM and the arts have to do with each other? Meet two women nonprofit leaders who say, "Plenty!"They're igniting interest in STEM for underserved kids and young girls through dance, music and theater, and having a lot of fun in the process.
Meredith Moore, CEO and President - Leverette Weekes is a Diversity Driver in many ways. Hosted by President Dayna Johnson, Meredith divulges in how to stay relevant and impactful in Corporate America along with helping corporations stay on top of the game by: simply listening. Meredith's extensive background as a DE&I enforcer brings knowledge and influence in this influential episode. Listen in...
On this episode of Diverse, a SWE Podcast, host Sam East is joined by Wan Leng Lim, a Senior Manager at Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD) Greater Asia R&D. They sit down to discuss her draw to STEM, her educational journey, and her work with coaching and mentoring young women.
In this special episode for Black History Month, Anne Perusek, SWE’s director of editorial and publications and Troy Eller English, SWE’s archivist sit down to talk about a few events that took place in 1957 that led to a turning point in SWE's journey towards inclusion.
On this episode of Diverse, SWE President Dayna Johnson sits down with Nalini Subu, senior systems engineer principal at The Home Depot. Listen as they discuss Nalini's education background, her work with The Home Depot and the mentorship programs she is involved with.
SWE's Early Career Professional Affinity Group took over this special episode of Diverse, a SWE podcast, to talk about National Mentoring month. Former and current ECP AG Co-Leads, Amber Kreceman (she/her), Mahati Vavilala (she/her), and Marie-Pierre (MP) Delisle (she/her) sat down to chat about mentorship, sponsorship and creating an authentic and intentional personal Board of Directors.
On this episode of Diverse, SWE President Dayna Johnson sits down with WE22 Keynote Speaker Phyllis Schneck. They reflect on Phyllis's experience at WE22 and expand on her opening keynote speech.
On this episode of Diverse, SWE President Dayna Johnson sits down with Swapna Tom, the distinguished technologist for the Enterprise Data and Analytics team at HP Inc. They discuss her journey to becoming an engineer, her current role at HP Inc. and the various volunteer projects she is a part of.
This is an episode from SWE Stories, Tales from the Archives, a sub-series of Diverse a SWE Podcast. Hosts Anne Perusek, SWE's director of editorial and publications and Troy Eller English, SWE's archivist sit down with Carol Sutton Lewis, co-host of the The Lost Women of Science podcast series, and Nora Mathison, senior editor and social media manager for the series.
On this episode of Diverse, FY22 SWE President Dayna Johnson is joined once again by WE22 keynote speaker, Michele Sullivan. Listen as they discuss Michele's experience at WE22.
On this episode of SWE Stories: Tales from the Archives, a sub-series of Diverse, a SWE Podcast, Anne Perusek, SWE’s director of editorial and publications and Troy Eller English, SWE’s archivist sit down to talk about Ruth "Dollar Sign" Shafer, SWE's fundraising dynamo in the 1950's and 1960's
On this episode of Diverse, SWE President Dayna Johnson sits down with WE22 Keynote Speaker Nancy Post. This special episode was recorded live at the WE22 career fair floor in the Diverse Podcast Booth powered by Hess.
On this special episode of Diverse, Anne Perusek, SWE's Director of Editorial and Publications sits down with Kathy Woody, the Principal Advisor Energy & Environmental Technology at Hess. This episode was recorded live on the career fair floor at WE22 in the SWE Diverse Podcast Booth sponsored by Hess.
On this episode of Diverse, guest host Katelyn Roudebush sits down with Deb Leach, Vice President of Technology and Innovation at Global Founderies. This special episode was recorded live at the WE22 career fair floor in the Diverse Podcast Booth powered by Cummins.
On this episode of Diverse, host Sam East sits down with Diane Egede-Nissen, a distinguished engineer at The Home Depot. They talk about Diane's educational experience, including her time spent abroad in Norway as well as her over 16+ years at The Home Depot.
On this episode of Diverse, a SWE podcast, host Sam East sits down for a round table discussion with the three woman at the helm of Discover’s mobile application. Listen as Sam speaks with Kristina Kuntz, Director of Digital Development, Melissa Douros, Vice President of Digital Design and Experience, and Jill Wereley, Senior Director of Digital Experience and Platform Strategy.
On this episode of Diverse, SWE President Dayna Johnson sits down with some of the cast of Netflix's Baking Impossible. Co-winners Sara Schonour and Rodolfo Goncalves join Dayna with fellow contestants Jacob Swiezy and Brandi Romines and Baking Impossible judge Andrew Smyth to talk about what bakineering is, their experiences on the show and their role in SWE's upcoming conference, WE22!
On this episode of Diverse, guest hosts Anne Perusek, director of editorial and publications for the Society of Women Engineers, and Troy Eller English, SWE archivist, are joined by Melinda Luna, a licensed professional engineer and longtime SWE member, and a member of SWE’s Latinos affinity group.
In this episode, Dayna Johnson, President of the Society of Women Engineers, speaks with Michele Sullivan, speaker, author and social impact advisor. They discuss Michele's experience as a speaker and her new book, Looking Up: How a Different Perspective Turns Obstacles into Advantages.
Welcome to an episode of "Un Cafecito with a Woman in STEM", a sub-series of Diverse, a SWE Podcast. This week is a very special episode as SWE celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with our first Spanish only podcast, sponsored by Discover. This episode is a conversation between Evelyn Cortes-Davis, Director of Water Engineering and Technical Services at Los Angeles Department of Water & Power, and Ilya Espino de Marotta, Deputy Administrator of the Panama Canal, as she shares her career journey that led her to become the Executive Vice-President for Engineering leading the Panama Canal Expansion.
Bienvenidos a este episodio especial "Un Cafecito with a Woman in STEM", una sub-serie de Diverse, el podcast de la Sociedad de Mujeres Ingenieras(SWE). Este episodio es parte de la celebración del mes de la Hispanidad, patrocinado por Discover. Hoy vas a ser parte de una conversación entre la Ingeniera Evelyn Cortes-Davis, la Directora de Agua y Servicios Técnicos en el Departamento de Agua y Energía de Los Angeles, y la Ingeniera Ilya Espino de Marotta, la subadministradora de Canal de Panamá y Vicepresidente de Operaciones, donde nos comparte su trayectoria que la llevó a convertirse en Vicepresidente Ejecutiva de Ingeniería y liderar la expansión del Canal de Panamá. Que lo disfruten.
On this episode of Diverse, guest host Lynda Grindstaff, Vice President at McAfee and active SWE member, sits down with Julie Castro Abrams, founder and CEO of How Women Lead! Listen as they talk about How Women Lead came to be, the meaning behind its credo and how SWE members can join!
Welcome to an episode of “Un Cafecito with a Woman in STEM”, a sub-series of Diverse, a SWE Podcast. In this episode, Diverse host, Sam East, sits down with Lennis Perez, a wellness engineer, international public speaker, certified meditation teacher and coach. Listen as they talk about her STEM journey, the burnout she experienced and how she uses that experience to help others.
On this episode of Diverse, a SWE Podcast, host Sam East is joined by 17 year-old high school student and FIRST Tech Challenge Dean's List Award Winner! Listen as Diana talks about her passion for STEM, her experience with FIRST Robotics and how advocating for underrepresented students has inspired her direction in life.
On this episode of Diverse, a SWE podcast, host Sam East sits down with Vice President of Global Partner Sales and eCommerce at Keysight Technologies, Kari Fauber. Listen as they discuss Kari's inspiration for pursuing a career in STEM, her experience as a leader e-commerce and her proudest accomplishment thus far in her career.
On this episode of Diverse, a SWE podcast, host Sam East sits down with Vandana Singh, Senior Vice President of Secure Power North America at Schneider Electric. Listen as they talk about Vandana's professional goals, her work with non-profits and how Schneider Electric has adapted as a majority of their employees have transitioned to working remotely.
In this special episode of Diverse, a SWE Podcast, SWE President Rachel Morford sits down with SWE President Elect Dayna Johnson. Listen as they talk about what being the SWE President entails and what their journeys to this position have been like. They also reflect on Rachel's past year as President and talk about Dayna's plans for her presidency.
On this episode of Diverse, a SWE Podcast, host Sam East is joined by Kristen Bridgeman, director of engineering at Cummins Inc. Listen as Kristen talks about how Cummins Inc.'s RePower Group helped empower her to come back to an engineering role after a 20 year hiatus.
On this episode of Diverse, SWE President Rachel Morford sits down with two members of FOX's Domino Master's Wonder Women Team, Farah Bajwa and Brianne Martin. Listen as they talk about their experience on Domino Masters and the engineering knowledge and background they brought to the competition.
On this episode of Diverse, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with professors Dr. Rose-Margaret Ekeng-Itua and Beth McGinnis-Cavanaugh. They are the founding co-leads for SWE's Community College Affinity Group! Listen as they talk about their educational backgrounds, their experience as teachers and advice they have for high school students who are considering starting off at a community college.
On this special episode of Diverse, a SWE Podcast, we revisit a Fireside Chat from November with Ranul Jain, M.S. Innovative and Sustainable Chemical Engineering at Chalmers University. In this chat, she discusses her various experiences and share what she thinks is really the trick to adjusting to a new country, climate, and life: embracing it with an open mind.
In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the Asian American Affinity Group is taking over Diverse for 2 incredible episode to highlight AAPI women engineers who came to the US as international students. Listen to part 2 as host, Sarah Koenig, talks to Marina D’souza, Dung Nguyen and Vanessa Li about what school in America was like for them and what it was like finding their first jobs.
In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the Asian American Affinity Group is taking over Diverse for 2 incredible episode to highlight AAPI women engineers who came to the US as international students. Listen to part 1 as host, Sarah Koenig, talks to Nora Lin and Dr. Vidya Chamundeswari Narasimhan about their move to the US while in college and the culture shock they experienced.
In this episode of Diverse, our host Sam East, sits down with Dr. Kathleen Dipple, a research scientist with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Munitions Directorate at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Listen as they talk about AFRL, Dr. Dipple’s research goals, and advice she has for young researchers.
In this episode of Diverse, Anne Perusek, Director of Editorial and Publications for the Society of Women Engineers and Troy Eller English, SWE Archivist, sit down with Linda Thomas, a SWE Fellow and a recipient of SWE’s Distinguished Service Award. Listen as they discuss Linda’s long career at Boeing Defense, Space, and Security, her experience volunteering with SWE, and how retirement has allowed her to spend more time on her love for music.
On this episode of Diverse, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with returning guest Lisa M.P. Munoz. Listen to the episode to hear about Lisa's research on how women's inequities in the STEM workforce have evolved overtime, the potential causes for women being uncredited and underrepresented, and a few stories about forgotten women in science.
In this SWE Diverse Episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Tracy Propheter, Deputy Design Engineer at Pratt and Whitney, owned by Raytheon Technologies. Listen as Tracy shares her journey to becoming an engineer, how she brings her creativity to her work, and her experience volunteering with Girl Scouts.
In this SWE Diverse Episode, Dayna Johnson, President elect of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Sara Schonour, winner of Netflix’s Baking Impossible! Sara talks about her experience on the show, how her engineering background prepared her for the competition, and how her life has changed since the show wrapped recording in 2020.
In this special SWE Diverse Episode, Anne Perusek, Director of Editorial and Publications for the Society of Women Engineers, hosts a round table discussion with three incredible women - Lauren Stevens, Vice President of Programs, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Anita Bestelmeyer, Senior Director of Corporate Computer-aided engineering at Becton Dickinson and company, and Luciana Taylor, Senior Director of Keysight’s Pathwave software solutions. They were all featured in the latest issue of the Society of Women Engineer’s magazine in the article, Leadership for a New Resilience.
In this SWE Diverse Episode, Karen Horting, CEO for the Society for Women Engineers, sits down with Jayshree Seth, a corporate scientist at 3M and 3M’s first-ever Chief Science Advocate. Jayshree is also author of the book “The Heart of Science: Engineering Footprints, Fingerprints and Imprints”, published by SWE in 2020. Listen as she talks about her new book, her experience writing a song, and why the Jayshree Seth Scholarship for Women of Color is so important to her.
In this SWE Diverse episode Anne Perusek, director of editorial and publications for the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Vi Brown, former SWE President and CEO and founder of Prophecy Consulting Group and Vi Brown Speaks. Nearly 20 years ago, Vi wrote an article for the SWE Magazine, titled “A Segregation of Memory: The 1921 Tulsa Race Riots”. Listen as Vi and Anne discuss the affluent Black Wall Street in Tulsa, the events that led to the riot, and the conspiracy of silence that followed.
In this special SWE Diverse Episode for Black History Month, Joanne I. Hill, the secretary for the African-American Affinity Group for the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Nina Ahuja, the social media lead for the African American Affinity Group for SWE. Nina also has her own business where she consults with small and medium organizations on their process implementations and improvement initiatives. Listen as Nina talks about her background in engineering and what led her to pursuing a different career while utilizing her engineering degree.
In this special SWE Diverse Episode for Black History Month, Joanne I. Hill, the secretary for the African-American Affinity Group for the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Tarolyn Buckles, President and CEO of Onyx Enterprises Inc. Tarolyn talks about her leadership style, the ways she gives back to her community, and advice she has for other young women who want to start their own business.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Karen Horting, CEO for the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Janeen Uzzell, CEO of NSBE, the National Society of Black Engineers. Janeen talks about her background in engineering and her incredible career at General Electric, Wikipedia, and now NSBE.
In this special SWE Diverse Episode for Black History Month, Louvere-Walker Hannon, co-leader of the African American Affinity Group for the Society of Women Engineers sits down with Debra Coleman, co-lead of the SWE African-American Affinity Group and the collegiate development lead for FY22. Debra is also a real time embedded software engineer at the Boeing Company in Seattle. Debra talks about what building a community means to her and how being a black engineer impacts the way she leads in her community.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Kusum Joshi shares about her work, her inspiration to pursue engineering, the importance of collaborating and mentoring to break barriers in IT career.
In this SWE Diverse Episode, Karen Horting, CEO for the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Priya Chodon, test expert of printer firmware at HP Inc. Listen as Priya talks about her experience working in the quality domain at HP for the past 17 years, how her career revolves around customer-centric solutions, and how she integrates self-care practices into her daily routine.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Dayna Johnson, President Elect of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Cassie Rothrauff, a lead engineer for Booz Allen's Global Defense Group (GDG). They talk about Cassie's time at Old Dominion University, her volunteer work with young students as a software robotic coach for FIRST Tech Challenge Teams, and some of her current projects at Booz Allen Hamilton.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Roberta Rincon, associate director of research for the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Lisa M.P. Munoz, science communicator and author of the upcoming book A New Picture of a Scientist: Creating a New Culture for Science That Overcomes Obstacles in Equity. Listen as Lisa shares how she became a science communicator, her experience working on the film Picture a Scientist, and how that led her to write her own book. This is part 1 in a 4 part series with Lisa M.P. Munoz!
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Annette Clayton, the chief executive officer and president of North America Operations for Schneider Electric. Listen as Annette discusses her background in engineering and how every step she’s taken has led her to where she is now. She also talks about how Schneider Electric has grown in the last 16 year, how more than half of their board is women, and how they continue to strive to have 3 women in every team.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Karen Horting, CEO of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Sarah EchoHawk, the CEO of AISES, the American Indian Science and Engineering Society. Sarah talks about some of the challenges facing First Nation and Indigenous Peoples when it comes to furthering their education, especially in STEM, the ways that AISES combats those challenges and how you, as an Ally, can also help.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Amy L. Freeman, the Assistant Dean of Engineering Outreach and Inclusion at Penn State and Presidential Awardee for the 2017 PAESMEM Award. Listen as Amy talks about what inspired her to become a mentor, the importance of support during transitions, and a few of her proudest moments as a mentor.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Katie Obaggy, Senior Specialist on Technical Functional Excellence for Cummins. Listen as Katie talks about the obstacles she has faced as a woman in engineering, how others in the industry can create a more inclusive environment, and her professional goals in both her career and her involvement with SWE.
In this SWE Diverse podcast episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, talks with Penny Gunterman, VP of Operations Portfolio Marketing at AVEVA. Penny shares her experience as a woman in STEM who coped with leukemia and the impact it had on her family and how her life and career have flourished in remission.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Jennie C. Stephens, Director of the School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs at Northeastern University. Listen as Jennie talks about her book Diversifying Power: Why We Need Antiracist, Feminist Leadership on Climate and Energy, energy democracy and why it matters, and how you can leverage the power of collective action.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Quanya O’Neil, the head of High Voltage Circuit Breaker Manufacturing for Siemens-Energy’s Richland at the Mississippi facility. Learn about what a typical day in Quanya’s position looks like, how she deals with adversity as a woman in engineering, and what she looks for in new recruits.
SWE’s archives are full of unsavory anecdotes about male colleagues, bosses, and sometimes even male relatives who underestimated or belittled the skills and professionalism of women engineers over the years. But here we share stories of SWE’s male allies, who made space for women in engineering, provided them with opportunities, and who listened to women engineers when others would not.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Rebecca Haug, a Vice President at Booz Allen Hamilton, leading technical delivery teams. Learn about how Haug found her place in STEM despite some challenges along the way, how she transitioned to become a working mother, and her work with mentoring women in engineering.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Mark Joppru, the head of Consumer Segment and Service Robotics for ABB in the US. Listen as Mark talks about his love for robotics, the importance of male ally ship, and advice he has for others in the industry wanting to create a more inclusive environment in their teams.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Denise Countryman, the Vice President of Technology at Home Depot. Listen as Countryman shares her software engineering roots, her 20+ years experience at Home Depot, how the company has embraced cutting-edge technology and the advice she has for women entering a STEM field.
Welcome to another episode of “Un Cafecito with a Woman in STEM”, a sub-series of SWE’s Diverse Podcast. In this episode, Marissa Doyen, the Hispanic Heritage Month Lead within SWE’s Latinos Affinity Group, speaks with Mariel Cisneros, a Systems Engineering Manager and technical lead at Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC). Listen as Cisneros talks about her journey as a Mexican immigrant, how her passion for space derived from a children's book about astronomy, and her approach to managing her team.
In this episode of “Un Cafecito with a Woman in STEM”, a sub-series of SWE’s Diverse Podcast. In this episode, Marissa Doyen, the Hispanic Heritage Month Lead with SWE’s Latinos Affinity Group, speaks with Sandra Cauffman, the Deputy Director of Earth Science Division in the Science Mission Directorate at NASA. Listen as Cauffman shares how she accomplished her childhood dream of working at NASA and how she now helps inspire other young girls.
Welcome to another episode of “Un Cafecito with a Woman in STEM”, a sub-series of SWE’s Diverse Podcast. In this episode, Marissa Doyen, the Hispanic Heritage Month Lead within SWE’s Latinos Affinity Group, speaks with Beatris Mendez Gandica, the Security Program Manager at Microsoft and the CEO of the Neuvo Foundation. Listen as Gandica talks about her experience as a Latinx leader, how her non-profit became to be and her favorite part of working in STEM.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Joan Michelson, the host of the acclaimed and newly re-branded podcast, Electric Ladies. Michelson discusses her interest in climate, energy and sustainability, why she believes women make strong leaders in green industries, and the biggest life lessons she’s learned in her years of being an interviewer.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, sits down with Amanda Fennell, the Chief Security Officer and Chief Information Officer for Relativity, a legal and compliance tech company. Learn about Fennel’s philosophy of “work/life grace”, her outlook on remote work, and how she actively incorporates both her own and her colleague’s hobbies and passions into the workplace.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Karen Horting, the Executive Director and CEO of SWE, and Anne Perusek, the Director of Publications at SWE, sit down with features of the Summer 2021 SWE magazine, Jill Tietjen and Judy Nitsch. Jill is a past Society president, life member, and is the author on ten books as well as a national speaker. Judy is the now-retired founding principal of Nitsch Engineering, a woman-owned engineering firm with 120 employees, headquartered in Boston with offices in Washington, D.C., as well as Worcester and Lawrence, Massachusetts. Learn more about their background, life experience, and advocacy for diversified boards.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, the incoming FY22 president of SWE, speaks with Stephanie Hill, who is the executive vice president of Rotary and Mission Systems(RMS)for Lockheed Martin Corporation. The RMS portfolio features more than 1,000 programs and employs more than 34,000 people from around the world. Learn more about her background, accomplishments, and community outreach efforts in the advancement of STEM education.
In this episode, Rachel Morford, President of the Society of Women Engineers, speaks with Patti Poppe, CEO of PG&E. Poppe has blazed a trail in two male dominated fields: energy and automotive. She discusses her roles in those sectors as well as how her training a an engineer has prepared her to be a CEO. Plus, if you've ever wondered how clean energy and electric cars work hand-in-hand, be sure to listen!
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, the incoming FY22 president of SWE, speaks with Barbara Humpton, a keynote speaker at the upcoming WE21 in Indianapolis. She is the CEO of Siemens USA, a leading technology company that is driving the transformation of industry and infrastructure. Learn more about her background, vision and commitment to diversity in STEM fields.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Monica Harrison, the FY22 Chair of the SWE Membership Committee, and Dayna Johnson, the FY22 Society President Elect, discuss Global Membership with the lead of the Global Membership Work Group, Juliana Dagnese, and Larisa Schelkin, who is also from the Global Membership Work Group. Learn more about their background, roles, and unique perspective of being Global Members living and working in the US.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Rachel Morford, the incoming FY22 president of SWE, speaks with Laura Gerstner, who works in research and development investment at CNH Industrial. She is a leader within the technology division and oversees R&D investments across agriculture and construction businesses. Laura has used her past experiences in engineering, program management, product development, finance, and accounting to bring a unique perspective to the industry. Learn more about her background, her role at CNH Industrial, and how her work supports inclusivity, growth, and opportunity for women in engineering.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, FY21 president of SWE, speaks with Dr. Nia Peters, a research electrical engineer with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) in Dayton, Ohio. Fluent in Japanese, French, and Brazilian Portuguese, Dr. Peters has blended her love for language learning development with research on natural language processing technologies. Learn more about her background, what it's like working for AFRL and how her work is changing the way we look at language.
Welcome to “Un Cafecito with a Woman in STEM”, a sub-series of SWE’s Diverse podcast. In this Diverse episode, Marissa Doyen, Hispanic Heritage Month Lead within SWE's Latinos Affinity Group, speaks with Melanie Weber, a structural and mechanical design engineer at the Boeing Company working on the CST-100 Starliner Spacecraft.
Get to know SWE's incoming President, Rachel Morford, and listen as FY21 President Heather Doty wraps up her year as president in this special episode of Diverse! Listen as Heather discusses her reflections on SWE presidency and Rachel shares her ambitions and wishes for the year ahead.
In our second Pride Month episode of Diverse, SWE CEO and Executive Director Karen Horting speaks with Lilian Martinez, CEO and Executive Director of Out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (oSTEM). Listen as Karen and Lilian discuss the importance of giving visibility to LGBTQ+ leaders in STEM, issues facing the LGBTQ+ community, and how we can all work to improve inclusiveness in our lives, teams and organizations.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, FY21 president of SWE, speaks with Maggie Kreiser, a process engineer at Compass Minerals. Learn about Maggie's background in petroleum and natural gas engineering, her role as a process engineer, and why she actively seeks professional development opportunities to strengthen her skills and career.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Alexa Jakob, lead of SWE's LGBTQ+ and Allies Affinity Group, speaks with Dr. Andrea Haverkamp (she/they). Dr. Haverkamp recently completed her Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering with a doctoral minor in Queer Studies at Oregon State University. Her three year research project explored the experiences of transgender and gender nonconforming students in engineering and computer science, such as their sources of community support and collective resiliency in the face of adversity. Listen as Alexa and Andrea discuss this research and the experiences of nonbinary students in engineering.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, FY21 president of SWE, speaks with Susan Uthayakumar, president of the sustainability business division at Schneider Electric. Learn about Susan's career driving sustainability, efficiency and resiliency in the electronics industry and how, as a woman in leadership, she has intentionally challenged the status quo to forge her own career path.
In our third Diverse episode during Asian Pacific American Heritage Month 2021, SWE CEO and Executive Director Karen Horting speaks with Khánh Vu, CEO and Executive Director of the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE). Listen as Karen and Khánh discuss the importance to giving visibility to AAPI leaders in STEM, how SASE is responding to the increase in violence against AAPI individuals, and how we can all be stronger allies to the AAPI community.
In our second Diverse episode during Asian Pacific American Heritage Month 2021, Dr. Vidya Chamundeswari, a member of SWE's Asian Connections Affinity Group leadership team, speaks with Gloria Montano, SWE's first Asian American president (1997-1998). Listen as Gloria speaks about her Filipino roots and American assimilation, transitioning from Silicon Valley to the nonprofit sector, changes in SWE governance and leadership since her presidency, and more.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, FY21 president of SWE, speaks with WE Local Europe keynote Smita Tharoor. As a motivational keynote speaker and thought leader on unconscious bias, Smita is passionate about helping others understand and rectify their own unconscious biases. Listen as Heather and Smita discuss bias and the importance of inclusion.
In our first Diverse episode during Asian Pacific American Heritage Month 2021, Margaret Omori, SWE's Asian Connections Affinity Group Vice Lead, speaks with two newly elected SWE Directors, Jennifer Morikawa and Kalyani Mallela. Together, they discuss their Asian cultures, their involvement in SWE, their motivation behind stepping into director positions, and the "bamboo ceiling" that often hinders the careers of AAPI women.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, FY21 President of SWE, speaks with Lauren Thompson, Senior Manager of Transmission Controls at Stellantis. Listen as Heather and Lauren discuss transitioning from a technical role to a leadership role, the importance of creating and maintaining a strong professional network, and what surprised them about SWE's eXXec program.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, FY21 President of SWE, speaks with Åsa Cervone, Global Program Manager for Generation Services CRM & Field Service Digitalization at Siemens Energy. Listen and learn about Åsa's STEM education, her successful career with Siemens Energy, and why she believes curiosity is key to adopting an inclusive mindset.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Karen Horting, CEO & Executive Director of SWE, speaks with Carla Boragno, 2021 WE Local Europe keynote speaker and Senior Vice President, Head of Global Engineering and Facilities for Roche. Listen as Carla talks about how her successful career started with taking a risk, and how following our intuition and making mistakes can often lead us toward personal and professional fulfillment.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, FY21 President of SWE, speaks with Dr. Sue Black OBE(Officer of the Order of the British Empire). Sue is a 2021 WE Local Europe keynote speaker and a passionate advocate for women in tech. Listen as Sue talks about her unconventional and inspiring educational journey to obtain her Ph.D. in software engineering, and where her career has taken her since then.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Karen Horting, CEO & Executive Director of SWE, speaks with Sheenam Ohrie, 2021 WE Local India keynote speaker and Vice President of Digital Services at Dell Technologies in India. Listen as Sheenam talks about her career with Dell, her passion for increasing diversity in the tech industry, and her upcoming WE Local India keynote, "The Art and Science of Unlearning."
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, FY21 President of SWE, speaks with Susan Ferguson, 2021 WE Local India keynote speaker and Country Representative for the United Nations (UN) Women Office in India. Listen as Susan talks about her work with the United Nations, the issues being faced by women and girls across the globe, and why it's crucial for us to diversify traditionally male-dominated industries such as engineering.
SWE members typically head to Washington D.C. around this time each year for Congressional Visits Day, speaking to their legislators about policy issues relevant to STEM education and women in the engineering workforce. SWE has hosted Congressional Visits Day for more than a decade. It’s pretty remarkable, not only because of the impact that members can have in educating policymakers, but also because for much of its history the Society has expressly avoided participating in public policy. So today we’re going back into the archives to explore how SWE’s stance evolved from actively avoiding public policy advocacy in its early years to actively engaging in it.
Get a sneak peak into SWE Magazine's State of Women in Engineering issue in this SWE Diverse episode with Roberta Rincon, SWE’s associate director of research, and Anne Perusek, SWE’s director of editorial and publications. Listen along as Roberta and Anne discuss SWE's upcoming research issue (to be published in April 2021), with a large focus on the impacts of COVID-19 on the engineering pipeline and K-12 education.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, FY21 President of SWE, speaks with Shwetambari 'Shwe' Shetty, 2021 WE Local India keynote speaker and a fitness expert at India's largest fitness chain. Listen as Shwe enlightens us through health and wellness education and advice for these times when many of us are spending more time than ever within the confines of our homes.
In this SWE Diverse episode, we wrap up Black History Month with Nikia Brown, African-American Affinity Group Black History Month Lead, and Louvere Walker-Hannon, SWE African-American Affinity Group Lead and MathWorks Senior Application Engineer. Listen as Louvere and Nikia discuss the challenges faced by Black women in STEM, the importance of mentoring and volunteering in communities of color, and how societies like SWE and NSBE are helping diversify the engineering industry.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Jayshree Seth, Corporate Scientist and Chief Science Advocate at 3M, speaks with TIME's 2020 Kid of the Year, Gitanjali Rao. At just 15 years old, this brilliant young innovator has designed and built technology and tools that address serious issues like water contamination, opioid addiction and cyberbullying. Get to know Gitanjali and her innovations in this episode—we promise it’ll leave you feeling inspired and eager to help the world through engineering.
Happy Black History Month! In this SWE Diverse episode, Bralade Koroye-Emenanjo, FY21 SWE African-American Affinity Group Lead, speaks with Kanika Tolver, an engineer, speaker, author and coach. Kanika is a highly decorated information technology Federal Government professional, rebel entrepreneur and Certified Professional Coach who’s fueled by an extraordinary commitment to social change and helping others create their own "epic lives." Listen as Kanika and Bralade discuss the challenges faced by Black women in STEM, how to overcome those obstacles, and how we can all work to create a more inclusive and equitable environment in our workplaces.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, FY21 President of SWE, speaks with Amanda French, co-founder and CEO of Emme, a healthcare technology company focused on women’s health. Amanda is a mechanical engineer with over a decade of experience bringing innovative femtech products to the market. Her research and development background in medical devices makes her an expert in the industry. Learn about her groundbreaking inventions and the femtech industry!
As National Mentoring Month comes to an end, Heather Doty, FY21 President of SWE, speaks with Ken Fulmer, President and CEO of Urban Engineers and co-founder of SWE's HeForSWE Affinity group. Together they discuss how men can help be mentors and allies for women in engineering.
In honor of National Mentoring Month, Yareni Lara-Rodríguez, mentoring lead at the SWE Latinos AG, speaks with Dr. Mauricio Cabrera-Ríos, professor and researcher at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez. Together they discuss his interest in mentoring women in STEM and how mentoring has been helpful during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Most people believe fulfillment is a rare by-product of success and that you're lucky if you get to experience it. Dr. Kim Warren Martin argues against that mentality. As a former engineer, she sees things formulaically and has discovered that fulfillment is not a fantasy—it's a formula. Having a formula means you don’t have to sacrifice your success for fulfillment, nor do you have to sacrifice your fulfillment for success. In this SWE Diverse episode, Dr. Kim and Heather Doty, FY21 SWE President, discuss how you can #HaveItAll...as long as you're the one who defines what "it all" means to you.
To learn more and register for Dr. Warren Martin’s SWE empowerment workshops, visit advancelearning.swe.org.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Sandra Guy, Chicago-based journalist and SWE Magazine contributor, speaks with Brad Johnson, Ph.D. and David Smith, Ph.D., co-authors of "Athena Rising: How and Why Men Should Mentor Women." During this episode, they talk about men supporting women in the STEM workplace as well as their latest book, "Good Guys: How Men Can Become Better Allies for Women in the Workplace."
Archivist Troy Eller English talks to Anne Perusek, SWE Magazine's Director of Editorial and Publications, to bring you Tales from the Archives- Mentoring Pt. 2. In this second part, we share how mentors have impacted the careers of SWE members' professional careers.
Archivist Troy Eller English talks to Anne Perusek, SWE Magazine's Director of Editorial and Publications, to bring you "Tales from the Archives- Mentoring Pt. 1. In this first part, we share stories of SWE members who talk about the value mentors played in their early lives and in college. Be sure to join us for part two where we'll explore the impact mentors had on SWE members' professional careers.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with Patty Mamola, executive director of the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. Together they discuss what it is like for Patty to be the first female president of the National Council Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and how to create a more diverse/inclusive environment in engineering.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with SWE Member Cathy Meyn, retired Corporate Director of Programs at Northrop Grumman. Cathy has a passion for mentoring and has mentored college students, peers, and employees from multiple companies, beginning her mentoring path in the fourth grade. During this episode, she helps us better understand the different kinds of mentorship, how to find or become a mentor, and how mentorship benefits both mentor and mentee. She also gives advice on how to maintain a strong mentor/mentee relationship amid the virtual communication shift brought about by COVID-19.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks to Jane Willenbring who was a scientist on the feature-length documentary film, "Picture a Scientist." This is the second part of a two-part series where we will be hearing from the directors and the scientists from this documentary. In part two, Jane talks about the harassment women face in the STEM field and how she overcame this problem. To learn more about the documentary, go to pictureascientist.com.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with Ian Cheney and Sharon Shattuck, who were directors and producers on the feature-length documentary film, "Picture a Scientist." This is the first part of a two-part series where we will be hearing from the directors and the scientists from this documentary. In part one, Ian and Sharon discuss what it was like to make this film and how scientists are changing their overall approach in politics and activism. To learn more about the documentary, go to pictureascientist.com.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with Rose James, Corporate Counsel, Intellectual Property/Commercial at Cummins Inc. Together they discuss what working at Cummins is like as a legal counsel and the advice Rose has for women interested in STEM.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with one of our WE20 Mega Session speakers, Selena Rezvani, author of "Pushback" and president at NextGenWomen, LLC. Together they provide a teaser of Selena's WE20 Mega Session, "Negotiate Like a Boss: How to Be a Fierce Self-Advocate."
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with Tiffany House, Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Commercialization Specialist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Together they discuss NOAA SBIR's program and how it provides small businesses with the right resources to develop their innovative technologies in the commercial sector.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with one of our WE20 Mega Session speakers, Anne Collier, CEO of Arudia. Together they discuss Anne's goals as CEO and leadership coach and provide a teaser of Anne's WE20 Mega Session, "Style Matters: How Cognitive Diversity Affects Your Work." If you haven't made plans to attend WE20, register today at WE20.swe.org to listen to Anne and other inspiring speakers from the comfort of your home!
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with one of our WE20 Keynote speakers and recipient of the Suzanne Jenniches Upward Mobility Award, Jennifer Rumsey, president of the Components Segment for Cummins Inc. Together they discuss Jennifer's goals as President of Components at Cummins and a sneak peek at Jennifer's WE20 Keynote. If you haven't made plans to attend WE20, register today at WE20.swe.org to listen to Jennifer and other inspiring speakers from the comfort of your home!
Happy 100th episode! In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with one of our WE20 Keynote speakers, Laura Maxwell, senior vice president of supply chain at PepsiCo Foods North America. Together they discuss Laura's goals as Senior VP at PepsiCo and a sneak peek at Laura's WE20 Keynote. If you haven't made plans to attend WE20, register today at WE20.swe.org to listen to Laura and other inspiring speakers from the comfort of your home!
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with one of our WE20 Keynote speakers, Sundari Mitra, corporate vice president and general manager of the IP Engineering Group at Intel Corporation. Together they discuss Sundari's journey from India to the U.S., her experiences as CEO of a startup company, plus a sneak peek at Sundari's WE20 Keynote. If you haven't made plans to attend WE20, register today at WE20.swe.org to listen to Sundari and other inspiring speakers from the comfort of your home!
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with recently appointed FY21 Special Directors, Dr. Rose-Margaret Ekeng-Itua and Dr. Maisha Gray-Diggs. Together, they discuss their accomplishments as black women in STEM and what they hope to bring to the Society's diversity, equity and inclusion goals.
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, SWE is highlighting Hispanic women engineers. For our first podcast during Hispanic Heritage Month, Marissa Doyen, Latinos Affinity Group Lead of the Society of Women Engineers interviews Eileen Vélez-Vega, vice president at Kimley-Horn and a director on SWE's board of directors. In this episode, Eileen discusses her career path in STEM, the significance of being a Latina leader within SWE and her company and obstacles she has faced as a minority in engineering.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with Alessandra Costa, vice president of field engineering at Cadence Design Systems. Together, they discuss Alessandra's move from Italy to the United States to work with Cadence and how Cadence has successfully gone to remote work and kept their employees happy during these difficult times.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with Amy Patton, Early Career Talent Acquisition Manager at bp, and Katy Hilburn, an intern at bp's Whiting, Indiana Refinery. Together, they discuss the impact COVID-19 has had on the workforce, the changes that have occurred as a result, and how women engineers and technologists can navigate and adapt to these changes.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY21 President, speaks with Rasha Hasaneen, vice president of innovation and product management excellence at Trane Technologies. Rasha will be a keynote speaker at WE Local India, Bengaluru in April 2021. Together they discuss Rasha's career with Trane Technologies and obstacles she has faced in a male-dominated industry.
In this SWE Diverse episode, FY20 SWE President Cindy Hoover speaks with Dr. Qian Lin, a research scientist who works on computer vision and deep learning in the HP Labs. This is the last podcast in our three-part HP series about social responsibility. Dr. Lin discusses what it's like being a fellow at HP and how she has helped transform HP over three decades.
In this SWE Diverse episode, Heather Doty, SWE FY20 president-elect, speaks with Brandie Dessauer, an integrated supply chain manager at Dow. Together they discuss working from home as a leader at Dow and parent during a pandemic.
WE19 "Celebrate SWE!" keynote speaker, 3M's Jayshree Seth, joins SWE CEO and executive director, Karen Horting, to discuss two issues dominating our world and personal lives: the COVID-19 virus, and systemic racism—a virus in its own right.
In this SWE Diverse episode, FY20 SWE President Cindy Hoover speaks with Katie Hirschey, Contractual Quality Program Manager in Print Hardware Systems at HP. This is the second in a three-part podcast series with HP about social responsibility. Katie discusses the impact of her work in HP Print and Quality along with her engagement in the intern program and in her regional SWE community.
In this SWE Diverse episode, SWE senior manager of research, Roberta Rincon, speaks with Dr. Rachel Korn, director of research on organization bias at the Center for WorkLife Law at the University of California Hastings College of Law. Together they discuss the impact that the coronavirus pandemic could potentially have on gender inequality in engineering.
In this SWE Diverse episode, SWE Senior Manager in Research, Roberta Rincon speaks with Sakshi Mishra, Energy and AI researcher at National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Sakshi focuses on applying artificial intelligence to solve climate change problems through increased adoption and deployment of renewable energy sources. Together they discuss how important it is to communicate to the younger generation of women that are seeking meaningful tech careers that have a positive impact on the sustainability of the planet.
In honor of SWE's 70th Anniversary, Archivist Troy Eller English talks to Anne Perusek, SWE Magazine's Director of Editorial and Publications, to bring you "Tales from the Archives," honoring the women who founded SWE and recounting SWE's early years, including anecdotes about some of SWE's first meetings.
In this SWE Diverse episode, FY20 SWE President Cindy Hoover speaks with Virginia Palacios, 3D Product Management Director at HP. This is the first in a three-part podcast series with HP about social responsibility. Virginia discusses how HP's equipment saved her dad's life, her knowledge of 3D Printing and the obstacles she has faced as a woman in engineering.
In celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM), SWE is highlighting Asian American and Pacific Islander women engineers. For our second podcast during APAHM, Jenny Morikawa, SWE's Asian Connections Affinity Group Advisor, interviews Angela Lo, solution quality engineer at IBM and Sowmya Nagesh, senior engineering technical lead at Caterpillar Inc. In this episode, they discuss how they balance work and mom life as Asian Pacific American women and lessons they have learned since working from home during this time.
In celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM), SWE is highlighting Asian American and Pacific Islander women engineers. For our first podcast during APAHM, Le Si Qu, SWE's Asian Connections Affinity Group Co-Lead, interviews Nora Lin, retired engineering project manager at Northrop Grumman and past president of the Society of Women Engineers, FY 2010. In this episode, Nora discusses her career in STEM, her experiences as a past SWE president and advice for aspiring engineers and technologists.
SWE Archivist Troy Eller English talks to Anne Perusek, SWE's Magazine Director of Editorial and Publications, bring you part three from a 1968 SWE national convention panel with seven Achievement Award Recipients from previous years.
In this SWE Diverse episode, FY20 SWE President Cindy Hoover speaks with Virginia Moore, rig engineer at BP, and the third generation of her family working as a well engineer. Virginia is passionate about promoting science and engineering to more girls and young women, and encouraging to not give up on their dreams! Together they discuss Virginia's professional and academic accomplishments and how we can create a more diverse, inclusive environment for women in engineering.
SWE Archivist Troy Eller English talks to Anne Perusek, SWE's Magazine Director of Editorial and Publications, bring you part two from a 1968 SWE national convention panel with seven Achievement Award Recipients from previous years.
SWE Archivist Troy Eller English talks to Anne Perusek, SWE's Magazine Director of Editorial and Publications, bring you part one from a 1968 SWE national convention panel with seven Achievement Award Recipients from previous years.
In this SWE Diverse episode, President Elect Heather Doty speaks with Jo Miller CEO of Be Leaderly and author Woman of Influence: 9 Steps to Build Your Brand, Establish Your Legacy, and Thrive. Jo has dedicated two decades to helping women advance into positions of influence by leveraging their leadership strengths and has served as a moderator for SWE's eXXec program. In this SWE Diverse episode, Jo speaks to some of the lessons in her book, as well what women can look forward to by attending SWE’s eXXec program.
In celebration of Black History Month, SWE is highlighting African American women engineers. For our second podcast during Black History Month, Bralade Koroye Emenajo, African American Affinity Group Lead of the Society of Women Engineers interviews Sherita Ceasar, senior vice president at Comcast and the first African American President of the Society of Women Engineers, FY 2004. In this episode, Sherita discusses her career path in STEM, her past as SWE president and advice for current and future engineers and leaders.
In celebration of Black History Month, SWE is highlighting African American women engineers who are breaking barriers in the technical track. For our first podcast during Black History Month, Bralade Koroye Emenajo, African American Affinity Group Lead of the Society of Women Engineers interviews Andrea Taffe, Certification Engineer at Collins Aerospace and Linda Thomas a recent retiree as a technical fellow with the Boeing Company in Seattle Washington. In this SWE Diverse episode, together they discuss obstacles they have faced as a female technical fellow in engineering, how industries can create a more diverse environment within their organization and how to find a healthy work/life balance.
Every morning as we scroll through the day’s news headlines, a question lurks. How can I trust what’s online as I listen to political debates and controversies – and how might the news that I read online influence my vote? These questions are more important than ever as the next presidential election nears. In this SWE Diverse episode, Chicago-based journalist and SWE Magazine contributor Sandra Guy speaks with Theresa Payton, CEO and co-founder of cybercrime-fighting firm Fortalice Solutions.
In this SWE Diverse episode, FY19 SWE President Cindy Hoover speaks with Sarah Joseph of the National Security Agency (NSA). Sarah is a Computer Science Researcher who holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science and a master’s degree in human-computer interaction. In this SWE Diverse episode, she discusses her knowledge of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and adversarial machine learning, as well as what it's like to work for NSA.
In this special edition podcast recorded live at WE19 in Anaheim, California, SWE past president Jessica Rannow speaks with Intel's Sierra Reid who explains the concept of 'job crafting,' and how we can all create and cultivate our ideal careers.
We think of Halloween as goblins and trick-or-treating. But this spooky holiday can also bring back memories of workplace horrors for women engineers. In this SWE Diverse episode, Chicago-based journalist and SWE Magazine contributor Sandra Guy speaks with several women who are telling their spooky stories — how they’ve overcome those terror-filled times so perhaps, you can be encouraged that you, too, can prevail.
In this SWE Diverse episode, FY19 SWE President Cindy Hoover speaks with WE19 Mega Session speaker Allyson Stewart-Allen about the importance of cultural understanding in our careers and business operations. In this episode, Allyson discusses the benefits of understanding different cultures, the cost of ignorance when it comes to other cultures, and what you can expect from her WE19 Mega Session, "Influencing Across Cultures."
Has SWE become more inclusive over the years? Find out in for this Diverse podcast featuring two Hispanic past SWE presidents—Anna Salguero and Alma Martinez-Fallon—and hosted by Bianca McCartt, co-lead of the SWE Latinos Affinity Group. Happy Hispanic Heritage Month, SWEsters!
Do women in STEM have to prove themselves more than men do? Are office politics more complicated for women than men? How does motherhood affect women engineers? In this SWE Diverse episode with WE19 Mega Session speaker Joan Williams, we'll address some of those gender bias issues and how to navigate them in the workplace.
Wondering if it's time for a career change? In this Diverse podcast episode, FY20 SWE President Cindy Hoover explores that topic with Jill Hauwiller, Founder of and Principal Consultant at Leadership Refinery. Jill is here to help you gain some insight on examining your career path and knowing when—and how—to make a move.
Wondering what the future of the engineering industry looks like? In this Diverse podcast episode, FY20 SWE President Cindy Hoover explores that topic with Sarah Watzman, PhD, of the University of Cincinnati Online. Learn what changes we can expect—including a shift in demographics, the role of artificial intelligence, and changing classroom dynamics.
In this Diverse podcast episode, FY20 SWE President Cindy Hoover speaks to Kim Varga, Director of Operations & Engineering at Schneider Electric. Learn how Kim has used disruption techniques to progress through the leadership ranks, and how you can employ these techniques to advance your own career.
In this Diverse podcast episode, SWE CEO Karen Horting speaks to our WE19 Friday Morning Keynote, Rachel Hutter. Learn about Rachel's unique background of engineering and theater, her career at Disney, her passion for SWE Conferences—and get a preview of her fun and inspirational keynote presentation!
(PART 2) In a two-part series on SWE's Diverse podcast, Anne Perusek, SWE's director of editorial and publications, and Troy Eller English, SWE's archivist, celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 lunar landing and the SWE members who helped humankind reach the moon.
(PART 1) In a two-part series on SWE's Diverse podcast, Anne Perusek, SWE's director of editorial and publications, and Troy Eller English, SWE's archivist, celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 lunar landing and the SWE members who helped humankind reach the moon.
In this Diverse podcast episode, FY19 SWE President Penny Wirsing speaks with Jelena Kovačević, the first female dean at New York University's Tandon School of Engineering. Raised in Serbia in the city of Belgrade, Jelena earned an electrical engineering degree from the University of Belgrade before moving to New York City to attend Columbia University. In her new role at Tandon, she is committed to getting more women interested in technology. Tandon's freshman class has more than double the national average of women in engineering, but Jelena wants that number to grow.
In this Diverse podcast episode, FY19 SWE President Penny Wirsing passes the metaphorical torch to FY20 SWE President Cindy Hoover. Learn about Cindy's educational, professional and societal background and her goals as the new SWE President, wrapped up with some parting words of wisdom from Penny in her last SWE podcast as host.
In this Diverse podcast episode, Gulnaaz Afzal—an international graduate student pursuing aerospace engineering—speaks about her experience coming to the US from India, obstacles she has faced and fought back against as a minority female engineer, and her passion for advancing D&I in the engineering world and for women in general.
In this Diverse podcast episode, Dr. Kristina Ropella, first female dean at Marquette University's Opus College of Engineering, speaks to FY19 SWE President Penny Wirsing about her goal of changing the face of engineering.
n honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, SWE Members Pearl Yamaguchi and Valerie Mencias discuss their experience as Asian Americans and reflect on how their culture has impacted or affected their engineering careers.
In celebration of Mother's Day AND the retirement of SWE's FY19 President Penny Wirsing, daughter Carrie Wirsing asks Penny about her SWE presidency, how she found work-life balance in her career, and what it feels like to retire from her profession.
In celebration of Mother's Day AND the retirement of SWE's FY19 President Penny Wirsing, daughter Carrie Wirsing asks Penny about her SWE presidency, how she found work-life balance in her career, and what it feels like to retire from her profession.
In this Diverse podcast episode, SWE President Penny Wirsing (FY19) speaks with Kerri Phillips, a senior engineer at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory and a visiting professor for the Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering. Kerri, who holds a PhD in aerospace engineering, speaks about her TEDxWomen talk she gave to high school students interested in pursuing STEM careers. The TED talk, "Don't Let the Brushback Pitch Take You Out of the Game," encourages young girls to follow their passions, even in the face of obstacles.
In this Diverse podcast episode, SWE President Penny Wirsing (FY19) speaks with Kerri Phillips, a senior engineer at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory and a visiting professor for the Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering. Kerri, who holds a PhD in aerospace engineering, speaks about her TEDxWomen talk she gave to high school students interested in pursuing STEM careers. The TED talk, "Don't Let the Brushback Pitch Take You Out of the Game," encourages young girls to follow their passions, even in the face of obstacles.
In episode 61, SWE President Penny Wirsing talks to Elizabeth Loboa, the first female dean of the College of Engineering at the University of Missouri. Her path wasn’t always clear, but she stayed with it — and she encourages students to do the same.
In this podcast episode, SWE president Penny Wirsing speaks with one of the eXXec 2019 keynote speakers, Rose Hollister. Rose is a consultant for Fortune 500 companies, a published author and a professor. Listen as Rose talks us through her experience as a woman making her own path in a mostly male-dominated industry, her steadfast belief in the importance of networking, and her advice for technical experts who wish to pursue leadership opportunities or become stronger leaders.
SWE Archivist Troy Eller English and SWE Magazine's Director of Editorial and Publications Anne Perusek, bring you part two of our women engineers breaking boundaries story. Part 1 was recorded live at SWE's Annual Conference in October 2018.
SWE FY19 President Penny Wirsing sits down with Crea Kitcher, operations director with PepsiCo.
Past SWE president's Penny Wirsing and Jessica Rannow talk mentoring in the month of January, hurdles, and direction for finding a mentor, and how SWE has and continues to be a great resource for mentoring guidance.
SWE’s Director of Editorial and Publications Anne Perusek talks about a STEM outreach campaign with Jon Reisfeld, a SWE Magazine writer.
SWE Archivist Troy Eller English talks to Anne Perusek, SWE’s Director of Editorial and Publications, about women breaking boundaries at SWE’s annual conference.
SWE Member Karen Schmahl, a professor of engineering at Florida International University with a Ph.D. in industrial engineering, talks about her 35-year career.
Melody Mojib is an Aerospace Project Engineer supporting Additive Manufacturing at Stratasys Direct Manufacturing, and she has a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
SWE Global Ambassador in Canada, Karen Chan, sits down with SWE past President, Jessica Rannow, for an onsite WE18 podcast to talk about advocating for SWE globally.
Cindy Kent SWE's WE18 Opening Keynote sits down with past SWE President Jessica Rannow to talk about her opening remarks and some of the questions that came out of the session.
SWE FY19 President Penny Wirsing talks to Valerie Gervais, SVP of HR for Saint-Gobain North America, as part of our Women Executives in Engineering podcast series.
WE18 Opening Keynote Speaker Cindy Kent speaks with FY19 SWE President Penny Wirsing as part of our Women Executives in Engineering podcast series and a special preview of her remarks at WE18.
Penny Wirsing, SWE FY19 President, discusses SWE’s India Gender Bias Study with lead researcher Joan C. Williams, Distinguished Professor of Law at the University of California Hastings College of Law and Founding Director of the Center for WorkLife Law.
FY19 SWE President Penny Wirsing talks to Sonya Benson, an associate principle engineer at PepsiCo with a Ph.D. in Macromolecular Science and Engineering.
Find out what WE18 First-Timers need to know from FY19 SWE President Penny Wirsing and SWE Past President Jessica Rannow.
FY19 SWE President Penny Wirsing joins Carol Fishman Cohen, Chair and Co-founder of iRelaunch, to talk about the SWE iRelaunch STEM Re-entry Program.
As part of our Women Executives in Engineering series, FY19 SWE President Penny Wirsing interviews Karen Beale of IBM who has attended eXXec, SWE’s executive leadership training program.
SWE Archivist Troy Eller English and Director of Publications Anne Perusek uncover more stories of gender bias and sexual harassment in part 2 of Nevertheless She Persevered.
As part of our Men as Diversity Partners podcast series, FY18 SWE President Jonna Gerken talks to Michael Milligan, Executive Director and CEO of ABET.
SWE FY18 President Jonna Gerken talks to Sabina Nawaz, a global CEO coach and speaker, about courageous leadership.
FY18 SWE President Jonna Gerken interviews Michelle Aikman of the Society of Military Spouses in STEM.
SWE’s Troy Eller English and Anne Perusek find stories of sexual harassment and gender discrimination in SWE’s Archives.
As part of our Women Executives in Engineering podcast series, FY18 SWE President Jonna Gerken talks with Neelu Khatri, President – Aerospace for Honeywell India.
As part of our Women Executives in Engineering podcast series, FY18 SWE President Jonna Gerken talks with Monika Panpaliya, Senior Director of IT at Boeing International.
FY19 SWE President Penny Wirsing talks to Davy McDowell of NCEES, the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying, and Kathy Marks of Carollo Engineers.
Penny Wirsing, SWE’s FY19 President, talks with Mary Beth Biddle, FY18 SWE Faculty Advisor/Counselor-Elect, about collegiate voting rights under SWE’s Governance Update.
Penny Wirsing, SWE’s FY19 President, talks with Mary Beth Biddle, FY18 SWE Faculty Advisor/Counselor-Elect, about how Collegiate Faculty Advisors and Counselors will be helping with SWE’s Governance Update.
In this podcast, we continue our Men as Diversity Partners Series with Steve Cricchi of the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command talks about NAVAIR’s plan to recruit, retain, and develop female engineers.
Our Women Executives in Engineering series continues with Sylvia Acevedo, CEO of the Girl Scouts of the USA. She is also an engineer, author, and entrepreneur.
SWE FY18 President Jonna Gerken talks about STEM education funding and SWE’s public policy with Della Cronin of Bose Washington Partners.
As part of our Women Executives in Engineering Podcast Series, we feature Alysia Green, General Manager of Upstream IT at Chevron.
SWE FY18 President Jonna Gerken talks with Nancy Boyer, Director of Research and Evaluation at FIRST, and some FIRST competitors.
Penny Wirsing, FY18 SWE President-Elect, talks with Global Leadership Award recipient Liz Ruetsch of Keysight Technologies.
FY18 SWE President Jonna Gerken talks with Monica Chu, a Near-Peer Mentor with the GEMS program, a STEM enrichment program of the US Army Education Outreach Program or AEOP.
Dr. Roberta Rincon, SWE’s Research Manager, talks about a new report on community college transfer students with FY18 SWE President Jonna Gerken.
FY19 SWE President Penny Wirsing talks with FY18 Collegiate Director Ingrid Arambula about SWE’s Governance Update for Collegiate Members.
FY18 SWE President Jonna Gerken talks about WE Local Tulsa and SWENext DesignLab with Kristina George and Rachel Harvill.
FY18 SWE President Jonna Gerken talks with SWE’s Global Leadership Award Recipient Karen Ramsey-Idem, Director of Global Technical Resource Planning and Management at Cummins.
SWE FY18 President Jonna Gerken interviews Sandra Smith of Brown University’s Executive Master of Science and Technology Leadership program about the need for technical leadership.
In episode #2 of SWE Stories: Tales from the Archives, Society of Women Engineers Archivist Troy Eller English and Director of Publications Anne Perusek discuss how members experience SWE’s annual conference.
FY17 President Jessica Rannow talks with millennial engineer April Ruggles who is just five short years already has five patents to her name.
SWE’s Peggy Layne talks to Engineering Deans Nada Marie Anid and Elaine Scott who she interviewed for an article in the Fall 2017 issue of SWE Magazine.
In this first episode of SWE Stories: Tales from the Archives, SWE Archivist Troy Eller English and Director of Editorial and Publications Anne Perusek share members' stories about "The Second Shift.”
FY18 SWE President Jonna Gerken talks with Andra Liemandt of The Mrs, a Texas based all female band who will be playing SWE’s Annual Conference, WE17, in Austin, TX.
For Diverse's Women Executives in Engineering podcast series, FY18 SWE President Jonna Gerken interviews Janeen Judah of Chevron who is the 2017 President of the Society of Petroleum Engineers.
Continuing our Women Executives in Engineering podcast series, FY18 SWE President Jonna Gerken interviews Pamela Jackson, V.P. of Technology at Emerson and a life member of SWE.
Jessica Rannow, FY17 President of the Society of Women Engineers, talks to Ernest Adams, Vice President of Global Diversity & Inclusion at Danaher as part of our Men As Diversity Partners podcast series.
As part of our Women Executives in Engineering podcast series, FY17 SWE President Jessica Rannow interviews Marilyn Tears, the Safety, Security, Health, and Environment Manager at ExxonMobil Development Company.
In our latest podcast on SWE’s Governance Update, Penny Wirsing, Chair of the Governance Task Force, talks with Karen Roth, FY17 Director of Professional Excellence.
FY17 SWE President Jessica Rannow talks with Lorraine Bolsinger, Vice President of the Accelerated Leadership Program (XLP) at General Electric, a keynote speaker at SWE's WE17 conference. SWE’s Annual Conference is Oct. 26-28 in Austin, TX.
Our Men As Diversity Partners Podcast Series continues as FY17 SWE President Jessica Rannow talks to Patrick Harper, Vice President and General Manager of the Technology Order Fulfillment team at Keysight Technologies.
Jessica Rannow, FY17 President of the Society of Women Engineers, talks with Kendra Eads, Director of Technical Quality and Functional Excellence at Cummins Inc, about the need for deep technical experts.
Gene Fraser, Vice President of Programs, Quality and Engineering at Northrop Grumman is featured in our latest Men as Diversity Partners podcast. He established the Women in Leadership program at Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems.
FY17 President of the Society of Women Engineers Jessica Rannow talks to two authors of SWE Magazine’s Annual Literature Review about research related to women in engineering: Peter Meiksins, Vice Provost for Academic Programs and Professor of Sociology at Cleveland State University, and Peggy Lane, Assistant Provost for Faculty Development at Virginia Tech.
Jessica Rannow, FY17 President of the Society of Women Engineers, talks with Della Cronin, a principal at Washington Partners, about SWE’s public policy efforts including its congressional outreach.
FY17 President of the Society of Women Engineers Jessica Rannow discusses SWE’s Climate Control study with lead researcher Joan C. Williams, Distinguished Professor of law at the University of California Hastings College of Law and Founding Director of the Center for WorkLife Law. The results of the study suggest the engineering workplace climate is tougher for women and people of color than it is for white men.
Jessica Rannow, FY17 President of the Society of Women Engineers, talks with Mary Beth Biddle about SWE scholarships. Biddle is a mechanical engineer at Lockheed Martin Space Systems and SWE’s Scholarship Coordinator.
To close the gender gap in engineering and technology, the Society of Women Engineers knows engaging men is a key part of that goal. In our latest SWE Diverse podcast, FY17 SWE President Jessica Rannow discusses men as diversity partners with Ken Barrett, the Chief Diversity Officer at General Motors.
tephanie Senkevich, SWE Member and mechanical engineer at Becton Dickinson, interviews BD’s Executive Vice President and Chief Regulatory Officer Rick Naples about men as diversity partners for women in engineering.
SWE President Jessica Rannow interviews Kelly Thompson about her work as a professional novelist and comic book writer and her involvement with the development of the new SWE comic series, Constance and Nano.
For SWE’s Diverse podcast series, Jessica Rannow, FY17 President of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), interviews Natalie Vanderspiegel. Natalie is an FY17 Sonora Region Senator and a Professional Life Member of SWE. In this podcast brought to you by SWE Advance, Jessica and Natalie discuss SWE’s Governance Update.
SWE’s Governance Task Force is now reviewing hundreds of recommendations from our working groups to create one cohesive plan. Natalie explains the process and talks about her role in the Senate Working Group. For more information, go to governance.swe.org.
For SWE’s Diverse podcast series, Jessica Rannow, FY17 President of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), interviews Dr. Luann Pendy, Senior Vice President of Global Quality at Medtronic. Dr. Pendy is the opening keynote speaker at WE16, SWE’s annual conference. In this podcast brought to you by SWE Advance, Dr. Pendy talks about her education, career, and how she strives to encourage other women to pursue careers in STEM.
Dr. Pendy is the executive sponsor of Medtronic’s Women’s Network, which is a resource group creating and promoting opportunities for women in the workforce. She is also a member of the Leadership Council on Advancing Women at the Conference Board. In 2015, she was named one of the Top 50 Women of Influence in Technology by the National Diversity Council.
Growing up in India taught Smita Tharoor the value of tolerance and the acceptance and appreciation of differences. In this podcast, Tharoor discusses her work helping others become more conscious of their unconscious bias, the value of cultural awareness, and the insights she has gained from working in the very different workplace cultures of the UK and in India.
UK-based Tharoor is the founder of Tharoor Associates, a training, coaching and organizational development company. She will be a guest speaker at SWE’s WE conference in India in April 2016, delivering a session titled “Are You Conscious of Your Unconscious Bias?”
Tharoor discusses recent research that revealed that those who believe they are not biased are in fact likely to be the most biased — and ways to work more effectively with those individuals.
According to the US Department of Labor, women currently make up 7% of mechanical engineers. Early on in her career, Dr. Beth Holloway was one of them.
Now Assistant Dean of Engineering for Undergraduate Education at Purdue University, Dr. Holloway is also the Director of the Women In Engineering Program which is the first of its type nationally. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering and a Ph.D. in Engineering Education, all from Purdue.
SWENext is a great way for students aged 18 years and under to get involved in the Society of Women Engineers. We asked SWENexters to submit their questions for Dr. Holloway, who spoke about the engineering profession, the college application process and how to prepare for life as an engineering undergrad. And her advice on applying for scholarships is not to be missed!
SWE President Colleen Laymen has a conversation with Senior Vice President & President Kellogg Latin America, María Fernanda Mejía about leadership, mentoring in the moment and the challenges women engineers face today.
SWE leaders will be launching the first national gender study of its kind this spring. In episode two of the Diverse podcast series, “Gender Equity & Engineering: Leadership Strategies for Inclusive Cultures”, host Jo Miller interviews founder and principal of Primer Michaels, Beth Michaels, who is leading the SWE National Gender Equity Culture Study. Learn about the research and how corporate culture impacts the retention and advancement of women employees.
Gender bias falls into four distinct patterns. 1) Prove-it-again!: women have to provide more evidence of competence to be seen as equally competent; 2) Tightrope: Women have to behave in traditionally masculine ways (direct, commanding, ambitious) to be seen as go-getters—but women are expected to be feminine. Often women find themselves walking a tightrope between being seen as too feminine to be competent or too masculine to be likable. 3) Maternal wall: Motherhood triggers strong negative competence and commitment assumptions. 4) Tug of War: Gender bias fuels conflict among women, for example when women receive the message that there’s room for only one woman at the top. My interviews with 127 women (over 60 of them in STEM) show how these biases play out in everyday workplace interactions—and the strategies successful women have used to navigate workplaces shaped by subtle bias.
Jo Miller hosts SWE new podcast series, Diverse. Jo interviews S. Shariq Yosufzai Vice President, Global Diversity, Ombuds and University Partnerships, Chevron Corporation about their recent Catalyst Award win and how the company has developed a strategy and rationale for diversity as talent and revenue driver.
A brief conversation with Diane Janknegt, founder of WizeNoze technology for kids. Diane was the keynote at the Society of Women Engineers WE Europe conference May 2015.