How did you first get involved in IEEE Women in Engineering?
I initially joined WIE as a student but didn’t really get involved in activities until I attended a WiEFORUMEast conference in Philadelphia. The conference was geographically close to me and the conference cost was within reason for my employer to reimburse.

Why did you decide to become a IEEE WIE member?
Obvious choice I am a women in engineering and wanted to meet others like me.

What do you wish other people knew about IEEE WIE?
It’s not a woman’s social gossip community it’s a community where women can come together to learn and grow from the experience of others. Being in a predominantly man’s field the opportunity to meet and discuss common issues that they face in workplace with other women engineers is a tremendous asset.

What is it like to be an IEEE WIE Volunteer, and what do you enjoy about it?
Without hesitation its additional work on top of my professional and personal life. But in return the satisfaction of seeing in real time the good that comes out of hard work negates any of the issues that additional time costs. More importantly, the colleagues you have the opportunity to meet and who become some of your best friends and confidants.

Why do you feel it is important for women to enter into the field of engineering?
Women bring a different perspective. Without that there would be less diversification of inputs into any solution. I think it’s proven that a diversified group of problem solvers comes up with the most creative solutions.