Women in Engineering: Success Stories from STEM Professionals Tiffani Teachey

In this episode, we talk with Karine Leblanc, vice president of Sales at iAIRE, LLC, and a renowned speaker, trainer, coach, and author, about the critical role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in engineering and why it matters. Karine provides practical strategies and tips for engineers to help enhance their EQ.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Karine:



What is the title of your book, and could you share your experience as an author?

Can you explain the concept of emotional intelligence (EQ) and why it has become important in the engineering field?

Why is emotional intelligence important as a critical skill for engineers, especially considering their traditional focus on technical abilities?

How has developing emotional intelligence impacted your professional life and influenced your approach to engineering and leadership?

What strategies do you suggest for engineers who want to improve their emotional intelligence?

How can engineering teams promote a positive emotional culture in their workplaces?

How can leaders effectively assess the emotional well-being of their team, including using specific tools or methods to gain deeper insights?

What advice would you offer engineers seeking to advance their careers and personal growth?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Boost Emotional Intelligence for Engineers in the Workplace:





In "How to be Human in a Technical World," Karine shares her journey as a young engineer in a male-dominated industry, where her ideas were often overlooked until echoed by male colleagues. Witnessing this pattern among peers, she transformed her approach, emphasizing emotional intelligence and resilience. The book aims to inspire others in similar situations, highlighting the value of human connection in technical fields.

Emotional intelligence (EQ or EI) is about how you handle emotions in yourself and with others. It's more than being nice — it's recognizing emotions and managing them effectively. Even if you teach or write about it, you'll still have tough days because we're all human. The key is understanding and navigating your emotions for better relationships.

Engineers play a vital role in society, but success goes beyond technical skills. Collaboration and communication with diverse teams are essential for effective engineering. Balancing technical expertise with strong interpersonal skills is crucial to prevent mistakes and ensure project success.

Mentorship plays a crucial role in transforming the understanding of emotional intelligence. Feedback from mentors prompts education and application of new skills. Sharing this journey with the team inspires positive change, emphasizing self-awareness and growth in the industry.

Self-awareness is crucial for managing emotions effectively. By understanding values, personality traits, and limiting beliefs, individuals can cultivate emotional intelligence. Being open to feedback and recognizing triggers for negative reactions are key strategies. Monitoring physical sensations like tense shoulders or a racing heartbeat helps regain control through actions like deep breathing or taking a walk. These practices empower individuals to navigate challenges calmly and build stronger relationships based on self-awareness and emotional regulation.

Understanding how leadership impacts emotions is crucial for creating a positive work environment. Supportive bosses boost engagement, while negativity leads to disengagement. Tools like the Genos emotional intelligence assessment provide insights and empower leaders to improve workplace culture and promote self-awareness.

Social awareness is essential for teamwork and relationships.

In this episode, I talk with L'Oreal Stepney, P.E., a distinguished board member of the Texas Water Development Board, about unique opportunities for engineers in the public sector, particularly in the water industry. We also talk about how an engineering background can be beneficial to board membership, and explore her journey transitioning to the Office of Water within the Texas Commission for Environmental Quality, where she spearheaded the establishment of the office from the ground up.

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask L'Oreal:



How did you transition from working on air permitting to joining the Office of Water at the Texas Commission for Environmental Quality?

How do you think your engineering background has influenced your effectiveness as a board member?

What has driven your commitment to dedicate over 30 years to public service?

When you began your career, did you ever envision yourself serving in public service for more than 30 years?

What unique opportunities do you see for engineers within the public sector?

What attracted you to the water industry and its significance for the future, considering its importance and the various industries available?

What unique benefits does a career in public service, particularly within the government, offer young engineers in the water sector?

How can mentorship significantly influence young engineers' interest in pursuing careers in public service or government?

What advice do you have for engineers considering a transition into public service, to aid them in making a well-informed decision?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Unique Opportunities for Engineers in the Water Industry:





L'Oreal shifted from air permitting to overseeing water regulation at the Texas Commission for Environmental Quality. With her engineering background, she quickly learned and excelled, eventually founding the Office of Water for Texas.

L'Oreal's effectiveness as a board member at the Texas Water Development Board is shaped by her engineering background. Her training enables her to solve problems, understand complex issues, and adapt swiftly to change. She appreciates how her engineering education equips her to make a meaningful contribution in her role on the board.

Her dedication to public service for over 30 years is driven by her belief in its importance and impact on Texans. She witnesses professionals working hard to fund water projects and manage crises like droughts. Finding the work fulfilling, she emphasizes securing a water future for Texas communities, valuing her role as a public servant.

L'Oreal had planned a brief stint in public service for training, but it unexpectedly extended to 32 years. She's grateful for the opportunities to create change and step out of her comfort zone, making a significant impact. Reflecting on her decision to stay, she acknowledges its profound effects on herself, her family, and the community she serves.

In the public sector, engineers ensure safe water resources for communities by reviewing plans, enforcing regulations, and overseeing financing. At places like the Texas Water Development Board, they make crucial funding decisions. With a shortage of engineers, particularly in water, there's an opportunity to emphasize these roles as Texas grows, showing the need to sustain water resources.

L'Oreal found herself in the water industry by chance but ended up loving it. She suggests new engineers take on unfamiliar opportunities for potential fulfillment. Water is vital across industries, from drinking to agriculture, making its management crucial. L'Oreal highlights the critical role of innovation and underscores the importance of engineers in ensuring a sustainable future for water resources.

In this episode, I talk with Marsaynee Attia, DPAC Reliability Engineer at Duke Energy Corporation, about the importance of seeking mentors and sponsors, communicating assertively, and staying up to date with industry trends. She also talks about the challenges she has faced as a woman in a male-dominated field and encourages women to be confident in their abilities and surround themselves with a supportive network of peers.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Marsaynee:



Could you describe the responsibilities and tasks you handle as a Deep Pack reliability engineer on a day-to-day basis?

Why is protective coordination crucial for circuits and controls in energy systems?

As a woman in engineering, have you encountered any unique challenges or experiences in your career, and if so, how have you overcome them?

What advice would you offer to women aspiring to enter the energy and utility sector or pursue a career like yours in engineering?

What is the difference between a mentor and a sponsor?

How do you ensure you stay updated on the latest industry trends and technologies to excel in your role?

What advice would you give to aspiring female engineers aiming to excel in a male-dominated field and overcome potential challenges they might encounter?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Aspiring Female Engineers in the Energy Sector:





As a Deep Pack reliability engineer, my main job is to keep the electrical grid safe from problems like overloads or accidents. This involves setting up protective devices like relays and reclosers to detect and fix issues quickly. Day-to-day tasks include checking new circuit installations, adjusting loads, and working with other teams to ensure everything runs smoothly. The goal is to make sure Duke Energy's distribution system stays reliable and secure.

Protective coordination is crucial for energy systems because it keeps both people and the grid safe. By coordinating devices like relays and fuses, it detects and handles problems like overloads or faults quickly. This prevents accidents, fires, and equipment damage, ensuring a reliable power supply while minimizing downtime.

Women in engineering face unique challenges due to gender biases and stereotypes. These include doubts about their knowledge and assertiveness as well as cultural expectations undermining confidence. Overcoming these obstacles involves confidently asserting expertise, challenging stereotypes, seeking mentorship, and remaining determined to be recognized for skills and contributions, regardless of gender.

For women aspiring to enter the energy and utility sector or pursue a career in engineering, seeking mentors is crucial. These mentors offer guidance and support based on their experiences, helping navigate challenges like office politics and self-doubt. Being assertive, confident, and embracing femininity as a strength is paramount. Competence and knowledge in your work help counter any attempts to undermine you. Finding mentors among other women who have faced similar challenges provides invaluable support in navigating a successful career path.

The difference between a mentor and a sponsor is in their roles. A mentor offers guidance and advice, usually one-on-one, helping navigate career development. Meanwhile, a sponsor actively promotes the individual, advocating for their advancement within the organization by leveraging their influence and networks to create opportunities for career growth.

To stay updated on the latest industry trends and technologies and excel in your role, prioritize networking and joining professional groups. Engage with peers, attend conferences, and participate in industry events to gain insi...

In this episode, I talk with Cristi A. Haygood, D.Eng., CEO of Alyse Engineering Innovations, about the art of creating real value in engineering, the dynamics of high-performing teams, and the intricate balance between fostering innovation and practicality.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Cristi:



How do you prioritize principles to ensure significant value delivery in your engineering projects?

Which innovation from your experience in engineering has had a major impact?

How can engineers ensure that their work contributes to sustainable value in their respective fields?

What methods do you find most effective in building and maintaining high-performing engineering teams?

How do management practices and self-care contribute to leadership effectiveness within the engineering sector?

What do you consider crucial elements for devising a successful strategy in engineering projects?

How do you combine fostering innovation and practicality to effectively create tangible value in engineering?

What key advice would you give engineers to navigate the complexities of the field, balancing both innovation and practicality in their contributions?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Navigating Careers & Fostering Innovation in the Engineering World:





Cristi, with over seven years in engineering, emphasizes the importance of value through proactive leadership, fostering innovation, quality, communication, and continuous improvement. Highlighting the need for leaders to create a collaborative environment, remove obstacles, and align actions with project goals, Cristi ensures success and meets essential metrics.

Acknowledge the transformative innovations in computer-aided design tools over the past 30 years, particularly in mechanical engineering. From manual methods to today's efficient automated tools and the role of generative AI in content production, industries are encouraged to embrace these advancements for future success.

Focus on doing quality work instead of rushing through tasks. Take a moment to evaluate if your actions align with goals and involve cross-functional teams for feedback. Embrace continuous improvement to avoid redoing work and ensure success in engineering. Doing things right the first time saves time and prevents issues down the line.

Strategic hiring goes beyond immediate needs, aiming to develop skills for the future. Emphasis is placed on aligning skills with both current and upcoming demands, fostering adaptability. In technical spaces, daily mindfulness practices enhance collaboration and resilience. Prioritizing what can be controlled, rather than constant troubleshooting, maintains high performance amid challenges like supply chain disruptions.

Strategic leadership involves foreseeing changes, innovating by challenging the status quo, collaborating actively with teams, and learning from mistakes. Prioritizing self-care is crucial for leaders in high-stress technical environments, positively impacting team morale, overall satisfaction, and productivity.

In engineering, aligning vision with goals and addressing weaknesses for better execution and collaboration is crucial. Involving the team in defining memorable, measurable, and meaningful goals supports a shared understanding. Consistently identifying and removing barriers, and discussing external factors and time leaks, ensures effective product development and timely delivery of quality services.

Ensuring innovative designs align with market demand and are cost-effective is crucial. The emphasis is on avoiding impractical designs that can't be sold competitively. Opportunities for improvement should be constantly sought,

In this episode, I talk with Katherine Fath Despinoy, P.E., PMP, Sarah Zarzecki, P.E., PMP, and Melissa Edsill Tiedemann, AICP, about a range of topics, including challenges faced by women in engineering roles, the importance of mentors, the role of professional societies, and the evolution of leadership styles.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:











Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Kate, Sarah, and Melissa:



What initial challenges did you encounter as a woman without an engineering background working in an engineering company?

How has connecting with mentors at various career stages influenced your professional development, and what guidance would you offer for identifying the right mentor?

What made you decide to pursue engineering roles, and how did you know it was the right choice for you?

How have you contributed to projects or teams, and what specific skills or unique strengths have you brought to the table?

How did participating in professional societies early in your career create opportunities for learning and career advancement?

What were some significant challenges you encountered in your engineering roles, and how did you successfully overcome them?

Which projects do you consider highlights in your career, and what makes them particularly noteworthy?

How does incorporating diverse perspectives in problem-solving contribute to improved outcomes in engineering projects?

How has your leadership approach developed over time, and which key experiences have influenced this evolution?

How do you perceive the role and perception of non-engineers in the engineering sector evolving over the past 20 years?

Could you share a significant mistake or challenge from your career and explain how you converted it into a valuable learning experience that can be shared?

Do you have a final piece of advice for young women who are considering a career in engineering?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Exploring Impactful Engineering Roles:





In the world of STEM careers, women frequently face hurdles due to unconscious biases that cast doubt on their technical skills. It's a common occurrence for them to be wrongly seen as having non-technical roles, overlooking their actual expertise. Although moving to different work environments might lessen these biases, the continual challenge of addressing and overcoming workplace prejudices remains.

For a successful career, keep learning with mentors who offer guidance in various aspects. Seek a mentor within your company by asking your leaders. Get involved in professional societies for valuable mentorship opportunities. Embrace these chances to grow personally and professionally, especially for young and female engineers aspiring to become future leaders.

People take different routes to engineering roles, with some finding a straightforward path ignited by early interest in math and science. Exposure to engineering outreach solidifies a shared passion for problem-solving, especially in practical civil engineering applications. This passion guides individuals through their education, forming a foundation for future pursuits.

With over 20 years in engineering, Melissa shines in Brownfield’s redevelopment, grant funding, and environmental compliance. Her urban planning background helps secure grants, and at Stanley, she ensures projects follow regulations, playing a vital role in complex endeavors.

Early involvement in professional societies is key for learning and advancement. Joining committees aligned with personal interests allows the development of leadership skills and showcases strengths to peers and potential clients, paving the way for career progression.

In this episode, I talk with Jamelle H. Ellis, Ph.D., founder and CEO of Empowerment Strategies, LLC and senior scientist at Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP), about the vital role of diversity and inclusion in STEM and the unconventional pathways to success in science and engineering.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Jamelle:



Can you share insights on both conventional and unconventional pathways to attaining success?

What motivated you to pursue a career in your field, especially with a focus on conservation?

How are minorities and women currently involved in science and engineering?

What is your greatest accomplishment and, conversely, your greatest setback?

Have you faced doubts or imposter syndrome, and if so, can you offer one tip on overcoming them?

What advice would you give young girls and women aspiring to careers in science and engineering?

What key message or takeaway would you like to convey to our listeners?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Unconventional Pathways to Triumph in Diversity and STEM:





Life isn't a straight line from A to B — it's more like a spaghetti noodle with twists and turns. Plan but stay flexible. Explore your purpose and mix traditional choices with a bit of unconventional thinking to tackle life's challenges.

Jamelle's upbringing, shaped by farming grandparents and a landscape design venture, ignited a passion for environmental stewardship. Now with the TRCP, they leverage a family history of hunting to advocate for conservation, especially among minorities, continuing a lifelong commitment to caring for the environment.

There's a shortage of people entering STEM, especially from underrepresented communities. Women make up 25% of STEM, and African Americans and Hispanics less than 10%. Diversity in STEM is crucial for innovation, as teams with equal gender representation generate 41% of revenue from women's ideas. Both corporations and employees must address this issue to solve a broader range of problems aligned with the country's demographics.

Jamelle raised three kids while pursuing advanced degrees and a meaningful career with their spouse. Balancing personal and professional commitments, Jamelle takes pride in encouraging their children's independence. Despite ongoing challenges with imposter syndrome, Jamelle channels these experiences into initiatives like empowering girls in STEM, aiming to guide them through self-doubt and inspire the pursuit of their dreams.

Being a minority in STEM means focusing on continuous self-improvement rather than comparisons. In larger institutions, finding your space is crucial, and colleges should prioritize retention programs for minority students. Seek support through societies, mentors, and personal purpose. Approach life as a continual self-improvement game, building on your own skill set.

Explore curiosity beyond your usual spaces, whether you're a student or a professional. Seek mentors from diverse backgrounds and transition from mentorship to advocacy for lasting support. Embrace growth beyond your comfort zone. These steps are crucial for personal and professional development.

Embrace and enjoy the journey, even amid daily challenges in academics or work. Real growth happens in moments of stress and stepping out of the comfort zone. Find joy in the process, appreciating it as stepping stones toward your goals.



More Details in This Episode…



About the Guest: Jamelle H. Ellis, Ph.D.

Dr. Jamelle H. Ellis has more than 20 years of experience in the environmental field, with engineering and science roles in academia, private, and public sectors.