GEM-SET

I am currently working for Los Alamos National Laboratories in Los Alamos, NM as a weapons assembly engineer. I received my degree in civil engineering from New Mexico State University in December of 2001 and am currently taking classes towards a masters degree in mechanical engineering. I would still consider myself an engineer in training but I have learned more in the past 16 months of working at Los Alamos than I could have ever expected. My job is very unique and I truly enjoy what I do.

I think my biggest obstacle through college was overcoming my own fears and really understanding that my future was for the most part up to me. People can tell you until they are blue in the face that you can be and do whatever you want in life but it is something you must figure out for yourself. Where there is a will there is a way. I think more and more women today are discovering that life is full of choices and that the biggest obstacle keeping them from achieving great things is fear. If I could offer any suggestions to young girls beginning their college careers it would be to never be afraid to step out of where you are comfortable and try something new.

My first year as an engineer at Los Alamos Labs has been an incredible experience and I can honestly say that I have not had many negative experiences. The hardest part has been adjusting to a new way of life. One difficult thing I have found while being in a working environment is that you must learn to deal with all types of personalities. Knowing how to deal and work with all types of people is a valuable skill that can get you through many difficult situations.

The field of engineering is very challenging and also very rewarding. In many engineering professions you are able to see your ideas and designs come to life. There are so many things you can do with an engineering degree that your opportunities are endless. Not for a second do I regret going into the engineering profession. I am good at what I do and enjoy going to work each day. My advice to young women would be to do what makes YOU happy in life. Do what you love to do and do it well.