Who are three women – living or dead – that you would like to have drinks with and why? Rachel Carson, Alice Waters, and Rosalind Franklin. Their bodies of work inspire me, period. The fact that they were in the gender minority of their respective fields is kind of icing on the cake. I would be interested to hear all three talk about their work and its cultural context, because it seems like they each homed in on these somewhat subversive topics that were way ahead of their time.
What was your first job and what did you learn from it? I worked on a ranch in Wyoming for two summers during high school! While there, I learned the importance of hard work and the results one can achieve when they put their mind to something. I learned how to take initiative, ask questions, and solve problems – skills I use every day in both my personal and professional life.
Which project, deal or transaction was the “game changer” in the advancement of your career during the last 10 years? The Chase 1 was a game changer for me. I was an assistant project manager, hungry to do more, I took it upon myself to jump in with the field team and get the amenity area turned over on time for the client.
What inspires you: I have always loved working with my hands–remodeling my Victorian house, or fixing my appliances. These skills translate directly in my work on product noise. The detective work that comes with finding an unwanted noise source requires tearing apart the device, whether a washing machine, compressor or medical device
What inspires you: I’m inspired by the opportunity to create change. The chance to contribute to empowering young girls and creating equality in the home and the workplace. Above all else, I’m motivated by the ability to set an example for young girls everywhere, especially my daughter.
What was your first job and what did you learn from it? My first job out of high school was working for a utility contractor as an administrative assistant. The company was a small, family-run business at the time. I learned so many things – how bidding worked, estimating, construction terminology, software, basic project management and every day small business practices.
What inspires me: I am most inspired when I appreciate all of the interconnecting hard work my foremothers have contributed so that I could pursue the life I wanted, and how I can continue that work for future generations of young women.
What were your biggest fears when you started out in your profession? I wouldn’t say I had any really big fears. I worried about being taken seriously as a good looking smart female engineer. I know some women, not just engineers, who become a little edgy to create this tough image working in a predominantly male world.
In 2019 I am trying to balance my work/home life better. It’s easy to get caught up in the office, but I have realized it’s so important to make sure that you also have a personal life. Which project, deal or transaction was the “game changer” in the advancement of your career during the last 10 years? In 2015 I had the opportunity to design a new office building and warehouse for a nonprofit organization. I was involved with every aspect, from schematic design, to material selections, coordination with engineers, and construction site visits.
