Building Conversations with Girls in Civil

Girls in Civil

Welcome to Building Conversations the podcast where women civil engineers break ground and build bridges both literally and metaphorically. Join us as we share stories and experiences into the dynamic world of civil engineering through the lens of inspiring women who are making waves in the field. In each episode, we engage in candid conversations with professionals, discussing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Girl Talks offers a fresh perspective on the diverse and impactful contributions of women in civil engineering.

  1. Aug 9

    The Foundation Before the Foundation: The Role of Surveying in Engineering

    In this episode of Building Conversations with Girls in Civil, we sit down with Dr. Evi De La Rosa Ricciardi to explore the world of surveying and its essential role in civil engineering. From transforming the physical world into precise data to supporting projects from design through construction, surveying is truly the foundation before the foundation. We also talk about collaboration, professional integrity, lifelong learning, and the importance of asking questions and trusting the expertise of others. Dr. De La Rosa Ricciardi shares her inspiring journey in education and her work empowering women in surveying, reminding us that there is always room to learn, grow, and make an impact.

  2. Jul 26

    Finding Your Voice: Leading with Confidence and Communication

    How do communication and authentic leadership shape a successful engineering career? In this episode, we sit down with Ruth Robles Rodríguez, a civil engineer and project management leader, to discuss the power of finding your voice, embracing new opportunities, and leading with purpose. Ruth shares her journey, the importance of representation and mentorship, strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, and why strong communication is one of the most valuable skills an engineer can develop. Whether you're a student, young professional, or experienced engineer, this conversation will leave you inspired to grow with confidence and make a lasting impact.

  3. Jul 12

    The Road Ahead: Growing as an Engineer and Leader

    In this episode of Building Conversations with Girls in Civil, we sit down with Lauren Kilgore, a roadway design analyst, a leader within the American Society of Civil Engineers, and a 2026 ASCE New Face of Civil Engineering. Lauren shares her journey in transportation engineering and how her passion for creating meaningful connections has shaped her career both inside and outside of the projects she designs. From navigating the early stages of her engineering career to taking on leadership roles within ASCE, Lauren discusses the importance of mentorship, community involvement, and finding opportunities to make an impact. Tune in as Lauren shares valuable lessons on growing as an engineer, stepping into leadership, and building a career driven by purpose, service, and a commitment to shaping the future of civil engineering.

  4. Jun 28

    Building Leadership Through Service and Community

    Leadership is built through more than technical expertise, it grows through service, connection, and a commitment to giving back. In this episode of Building Conversations with Girls in Civil, we sit down with Marsha Anderson Bomar, Global President of ASCE and Transportation Strategic Advisor at GHD, to discuss her non-linear career journey and the experiences that shaped her as an engineer, entrepreneur, public servant, and leader. Whether you're a student, early-career professional, or seasoned engineer, this conversation is a reminder that leadership is cultivated through service, lifelong learning, and showing up as your whole self. Tune in to hear how building communities can also build leaders.

  5. Jun 14

    Connecting Students to the Built World

    Welcome to Season 3 of Building Conversations with Girls in Civil! This season, we're exploring the people, programs, and ideas shaping the future of engineering, construction, and STEM education. In our Season 3 premiere, we sit down with Liz Gallo, Founder and CEO of WhyMaker, to discuss how hands-on learning, mentorship, and industry partnerships are helping students discover meaningful career pathways. From classroom experiences to construction sites, Liz shares how early exposure can inspire the next generation of engineers, builders, and problem-solvers. Join us as we explore the importance of representation, career awareness, and creating opportunities for students to see what's possible for their future.

  6. 07/13/2025

    Plot Twist! Taking a Career Break & Figuring Things Out

    In this episode, we sit down with Laura Rosario Gonzalez to talk about the power of trusting your gut, redefining what success looks like, and taking a well-deserved break. Laura opens up about leaving her first engineering job, navigating burnout, and finding a career path that better aligns with her strengths. Whether you’re early in your career, questioning your current role, or just need a reminder that it’s okay to pause and realign, this conversation is for you!

  7. 06/29/2025

    Wait, What Even is Transportation Planning?

    In this episode, we sit down with Charmelis Reyes Cruz, a transportation engineer and planner, to break down what transportation planning actually is, and why it matters. From her roots in architecture and civil engineering to working on real-world projects that shape how people move, Charmelis shares how planning and engineering work together to build safer, more connected communities. We talk about data, equity, bike lanes, big-picture thinking, and what it means to put people first in infrastructure. Whether you're in the field or just curious about how your city works, this episode is packed with insights, advice, and inspiring moments. 🎧 Tune in and learn how planning goes beyond blueprints to create meaningful impact.

  8. 06/08/2025

    Doing it All (and Surviving) Master’s, Work & Social Media

    In this episode, we sit down with Natasha Mejias Ramírez — a geotechnical engineer from Puerto Rico to talk about what it really looks like to juggle grad school, a full-time job, and building a professional presence on social media. Natasha shares her honest experience with burnout, the importance of mental health, and the personal reasons behind pursuing a master’s degree in geotechnical engineering. We also dive into how she built @en_botas, a platform aimed at connecting and educating others about geotech in Puerto Rico, and why representation and community matter in STEM. If you're navigating your own path in engineering, this episode is a reminder that there’s no one way to do it and you’re not alone.

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Welcome to Building Conversations the podcast where women civil engineers break ground and build bridges both literally and metaphorically. Join us as we share stories and experiences into the dynamic world of civil engineering through the lens of inspiring women who are making waves in the field. In each episode, we engage in candid conversations with professionals, discussing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Girl Talks offers a fresh perspective on the diverse and impactful contributions of women in civil engineering.

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