Meet alumna Valeria Laguna

Valeria Laguna

MechSE '13, WIE Orientation Keynote Speaker

 

Q What did you learn as a woman in engineering that has helped you in and out of your professional role?

That nobody knows everything, so it's ok if you don't know everything, and therefore, I have the right to ask questions.

Q Do you think the landscape of women in STEM fields has changed? How so? Where do you see it going in the future?

I think I see more people that look like me that are leaders in their field, and successful in what they choose to do. I also see that success is defined in many ways. In the future, the population in STEM fields will continue to change to more closely match the diversity of the consumers that they serve.

Q Who inspires you as a woman in engineering?

My mom, she was a Chemical Engineer, successfully managed her career, and had people that respected her work and her leadership style. She also had people that she admired and respected and was always willing to learn.

Q What advice do you have for women in who are starting their journey in engineering?

Everyone's journey looks different, and the definition of success is unique to each person. Don't let anybody define that for you. You follow your own journey and be successful in the things that are important to you. Remember the opportunities are endless and someone else's success does not impede your success. A community of support is priceless.