Intelligent CIO North America Issue 48 | Page 34

EDITOR ’ S QUESTION
LUZ GEIST , DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING , CUBIC DEFENSE
ELISA LA ROCHE , SENIOR DIRECTOR , SUPPORT ENGINEERING , STARBURST

As a female engineer established in my career , I have learned to embrace the good with the bad life lessons along the way , they made me who I am today . Fundamentally , to continue growing and learning , it requires challenging yourself and getting out of your comfort zone not for the certainty of outcome , but for the certainty that you will come out wiser . The value comes when one learns to harness those experiences to support other women striving to meet their ambitions . In today ’ s fast-paced world it is essential to elevate other women around us , be a good role model and mentor . I always encourage learning from someone else ’ s experiences , ask questions , push boundaries and take chances .

ANNEMIE VANOOSSTERHOUT , RELEASE AND PROJECT MANAGER , DATADOBI

To women passionate about engineering and technology , be curious , be bold and believe that your ideas are important to achieving a greater goal . To those pursuing a career in leadership , we have more opportunities than ever to influence the change we want to see . Our commitment to developing young women professionals and early education programs to support them strengthens the field of engineering for generations to come .

By celebrating the achievements of women in engineering , we shine a spotlight on their contributions to the industry , highlighting the difference diversity makes and inspiring all those interested in pursuing a future in engineering .”
PRERANA SINGHAL , FOUNDING ENGINEER , TRACEABLE AI

It ’ s essential for everyone , regardless of gender , to create inclusive workspaces . Remote work is one way to allow for more flexible hours and benefit women tasked with balancing their family life and their job responsibilities . However , the responsibility to challenge the status quo doesn ’ t solely lie with organizations : as women , we must also push beyond perceived limitations .

The key to accomplishing change is collaboration , and it should not be a solitary endeavor . Together , we can make a significant impact and pave the way for future generations of women engineers .

Occupations like engineering and tech are no longer considered jobs specifically for men . I am very glad to see that women ’ s interests in STEM are now being fostered instead of being deterred by what was considered a ‘ societal norm ’ for women . While there is still a long way to go , strides have been made in ensuring that women have a place in the engineering field . Now we must continue to pave the way for the new generation of female engineers . Young girls need to see more examples of female engineers , they need to see their accomplishments be celebrated , and they need to know that this line of work can be so much fun .

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