IEEE WIE Distinguished Volunteer and Mentor series highlights a dedicated WIE volunteer who is well known for his/her notable contribution to IEEE WIE.
In this issue, we feature Marisabel Rodriguez
IEEE WIE: How has your experience with IEEE WIE shaped your career and personal growth?
Rodriguez: In 2012, I founded WIE Argentina with other Women, and from there, there were many projects regarding Education and Technology evangelization.
From there, I worked for many years in various initiatives, such as lectures, contest evaluation, panels, coaching, and many other activities.
IEEE WIE: What innovative projects or initiatives are you currently working on that you believe will make a significant impact?
Rodriguez: WIE Marathon: Last year we did a Hackathon together with Broadcast Technology, to create an educational and gamified environment about Artificial intelligence. Around 50 girls and boys from the US, Central and South America, Japan and Africa participated.
IEEE WIE: Can you share a moment when you overcame a significant challenge in your professional journey and what you learned from it?
Rodriguez: Working with mostly men has been a challenge. Learning how to focus in work and improve communication skills have been key for success.
IEEE WIE: How do you stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in your field?
Rodriguez: I study and certify technical topics such as Security, Cloud, AI, it is part of my role.
IEEE WIE: What role do you think mentorship plays in the success of young professionals, and how do you approach mentoring others?
Rodriguez: Every professional should have a mentor to guide her or him in the way to grow. Each engineer has their own experience, and that can be enriched with more stories and facts that enlighten and call to think deeply to make better decisions.
Sharing with others our professional paths, is our responsibility if we want young people to feel that they have more opportunities and they are protected and guided.
