Women in Engineering: Success Stories from STEM Professionals Tiffani Teachey

In this episode, I talk with Loren Rosario-Maldonado, PCC, an executive coach at Torch, CQ Fellow at the Cultural Intelligence Center, and Chief People Scientist at Cultura, Inc. We discuss how cultural intelligence can transform engineering teams, effective ways to improve organizational culture, and the importance of self-care for successful leadership.



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

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Loren:



Could you explain cultural intelligence and its importance in today's engineering fields?

What's one effective strategy you've used to improve organizational culture?

How do you incorporate self-care into your leadership training, and why do you think it's crucial for effective leadership?

What practical steps can engineers take to navigate diversity and promote inclusivity in the workplace?

Given the fast-paced changes in modern workplaces, what do you envision as the future of work, particularly within engineering disciplines?

How can we motivate individuals and teams to embrace and utilize their diverse backgrounds and perspectives?

What factors influence motivating diverse engineering teams across generations?

What are some simple daily habits people can adopt to boost their cultural intelligence?

What advice would you offer to women engineers aiming to progress in their careers and potentially assume leadership positions?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Cultivate Cultural Intelligence in Devoted Engineering Teams:





Cultural intelligence is crucial in our diverse world, especially as technology connects us globally. Understanding and collaborating with people from different backgrounds enriches relationships and enhances communication.

Crafting the employee value proposition is essential for understanding the employee experience from a human-centered perspective in organizational strategy. As a people scientist, leveraging insights into human behavior at home and work helps create value propositions benefiting both employees and organizations.

Prioritizing self-care is crucial for sustained success, especially in leadership. Remembering MEADS, which includes activities like meditating, eating well, accepting the moment, developing movement, and ensuring sufficient sleep, offers a simple yet effective framework for maintaining balance and resilience.

Leading effectively means ensuring everyone feels valued and nurturing an environment where authenticity thrives. Embracing self-awareness, humility, openness, curiosity, and empathy creates inclusive workplaces where individuals can contribute meaningfully and show up authentically.

As disruption accelerates, the future of work relies on human skills for effective collaboration. Cultivating abilities like emotional intelligence and communication becomes crucial in navigating rapid change and industry shifts driven by technology.

Encouraging open dialogue while respecting boundaries promotes authentic collaboration in the workplace. Sustainable change is driven by embracing diverse perspectives with empathy and focusing on human skills to achieve business results effectively.

In diverse team environments, effective motivation often revolves around creating spaces where individuals feel truly understood. Simple strategies like regular check-ins and team sessions, focused on listening without judgment, can cultivate a sense of support and collaboration, ultimately driving team success.

Exploring something new every day outside of one's comfort zone, such as trying different cuisines or engaging with neurodivergent individuals, promotes learning and broadens perspectives. These small, enjoyable challenges encourage personal growth and...

In this episode, I talk with Cassandra “Cassie” Shum, VP of field engineering at RelationalAI, about engineering challenges, the future of AI integration, and its broader applications. Cassie also shares her career journey and emphasizes the importance of mentorship.



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

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Cassie:



How has mentoring played a role in your success and achievements?

What are some of the biggest challenges that engineers currently face?

What do you envision for the future of generative AI integration?

Why do the productivity gains promised by AI integration in theory often fail to translate into real-world outcomes?

Why is establishing a strong foundation crucial for effective AI integration in the workplace?

Is it harder for software engineers to stay relevant today amid all the new technologies and industry noise?

What does the concept of community mean within the engineering sector?

What advice do you have for women aiming to grow their careers in engineering?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Revolutionizing Engineering With AI Integration:





Effective mentorship is crucial for personal and professional growth, providing guidance, coaching, and inspiration that pave the way for new opportunities and confidence in one's abilities. Without this support, individuals may struggle to achieve their current level of success.

Today's engineers are overwhelmed by numerous technology options, leading to distractions and reduced productivity. Focusing on specific outcomes and success criteria within their teams is essential for maintaining productivity and achieving desired results.

The emergence of generative AI tools like co-pilot and ChatGPT is reshaping how engineers work, aiming to streamline routine tasks and boost productivity. However, foundational skills such as code design and repository management remain crucial for success alongside these new technologies.

When evaluating productivity gains from tools like Gen.AI, focus on meaningful outcomes and quality rather than simply measuring speed. Success with technology depends on aligning with stakeholders and understanding the true objectives to ensure tools effectively enhance desired outcomes.

Success in AI and analytics hinges on having clean, accessible data as the foundational building block. Before deploying advanced tools like generative AI (GenAI) or deep learning models, prioritizing data quality and effective management is essential to drive meaningful insights and business outcomes.

In the fast-changing world of technology, the abundance of options can lead to analysis paralysis and overly complex systems for organizations. Prioritizing foundational design principles like scalability and performance is key to adapting to technological changes effectively amidst the constant influx of new tools and technologies.

Collaboration and knowledge sharing across diverse communities are vital for fostering innovation and diverse perspectives in tech. Embracing collaboration breaks down silos and brings fresh insights that strengthen problem-solving.

Seek mentorship and guidance for career decisions and challenges and learn to say "yes" to growth opportunities while knowing when to say "no" to avoid overcommitment and maintain well-being.



More Details in This Episode…



About the Guest: Cassandra “Cassie” Shum

Cassandra Shum is the VP of Field Engineering at RelationalAI. As a software engineer and architect, she has spent the last 15-plus years focusing on building highly scalable and resilient architectures, including event-driven systems and microservices on cloud-based technologies.

In this episode, I talk with Erin Khan, a leader in construction technology, about how construction tech has evolved and what's ahead. Erin also shares her journey, career paths in construction tech, challenges for women, and advice for engineers entering the field or starting ventures.



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

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Erin:



What inspired you to start an independent consulting firm in the construction technology space, particularly as a woman in this field?

What are typical career paths in construction technology, and how can individuals pursue them effectively?

What specific opportunities or challenges might women face when pursuing careers in this field?

How can women in engineering best navigate and advance in the construction industry, given its challenges and opportunities?

How would you characterize the current state of the construction technology landscape compared to a decade ago?

Which new technologies or trends do you find most exciting or promising for the construction industry?

How do you expect these advancements to impact different aspects of construction, including efficiency, safety, and sustainability?

How do you keep yourself updated and ahead in the rapidly evolving field of construction technology?

What advice would you offer to engineers, particularly those aiming to enter construction technology or start their venture?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Career Paths for Opportunities and Growth in Construction Tech:





Erin started her construction career after studying civil engineering at USC. She was motivated to advance construction technology due to the lack of digital tools on project sites, leading her to establish her consulting firm to innovate in the industry, especially as a woman aiming to promote female leadership in construction.

The construction industry is evolving with new specialized roles like construction tech innovation managers and customer success managers in startups. These opportunities in construction tech venture capital reflect exciting developments beyond traditional roles like BIM coordinators.

In construction, diverse perspectives, including those of women, bring valuable insights and empathy crucial for problem-solving in construction tech. However, women can face challenges like bias, where assertiveness may be perceived negatively, which shows the importance of navigating perceptions to advocate for innovative ideas effectively.

Improving team processes, even with small changes, can have a big impact. Document and share these improvements to benefit the team and project. Building a network with mentors and other women in the industry accelerates learning and provides valuable insights into different project experiences and roles.

In the construction tech space, there's been a surge in available solutions, but there's also a decline in quality as many startups fail to deeply understand the problems they're trying to solve. With thousands of new startups entering the field, there's a learning curve to deliver truly effective solutions that address industry challenges.

Artificial intelligence is creating excitement in construction for its potential to improve learning and development by capturing and translating historical knowledge. There's also anticipation for advancements in data integrations to overcome platform interoperability challenges and set better industry standards.

Technology adoption will accelerate processes, making them faster and more efficient, while also enabling a shift toward proactive safety measures. This advancement will also improve awareness and education on sustainability by providing tools to measure and addres...

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...