From intern to engineer, shaping six years of ingenuity and mentorship
Mechanical Engineer
AKF, Member of WSP
Years with company/firm: 5
Years in field: 6
Tell us how and when you began your career in the profession you are in:
I attended Drexel University for Architectural Engineering and was introduced to the overall building systems relatively early in my college career. Drexel is unique in that they incorporate work experience into the curriculum, so I got my first internship designing mechanical building systems at an MEP firm in 2018. I was lucky enough to find this field and take interest in this industry, so I set out to find other internships that had a focus on mechanical building systems. In 2019 I applied to be an intern here at AKF and have been here ever since.
What is your current position?
I currently work as a mechanical engineer. This position includes an array of tasks from equipment sizing and selections to building system design and integration. I also help train and teach the mechanical interns from Drexel University, which is important to me because they go through the same process I did while I was in school, and I want to be able to provide insight into what this industry has to offer to better prepare them for their career choices.
Why did you choose the field/profession you are in today?
I chose my profession not only because I find it interesting, but because it adapts to changes as the world advances. This industry allows me to experience a wide range of projects in various locations, and with that provides a balance of technical challenges and creative freedom to design and problem solve. Most importantly, the type of work I do has a lasting impact on the world, where multiple generations will be able to see or use the buildings that I have helped come to fruition.
How do you manage the work/life balance?
One thing I have learned is the importance of work/life balance. Times have changed, technology has advanced, and many workplaces have adopted the hybrid work schedule. While there are many benefits to this, I’ll be the first to admit that working from home can blur the line between what is work and what is home. I’ve learned the importance of when to take a break and step away from work, as it provides the small refresh needed to complete a task. In addition to balancing my work from home environment, I am learning to take time for myself and prioritizing what I call “me time”, which includes relaxing, enjoying hobbies, exercise, etc. I am still working to find the ideal work/life balance, and although it is challenging, I believe that finding and keeping this balance is essential to having a successful life.
Who or what has been the strongest influence on your career?
While it may sound cliché, I owe a lot of thanks to my parents. They have had a huge impact on my career, and I am very fortunate to have them as influences and support. And while they may not know this, they have taught me many things that have helped guide me through my career by teaching me to be confident, independent, and self-sufficient. They have always helped me recognize my strengths and weaknesses, pushed me to build on my strengths and work on my weaknesses, and one important thing I often forget is knowing that it’s okay to make mistakes. As someone who regularly strives for perfection it is easy to forget that success doesn’t happen overnight, and yes, I am frequently reminded that I need to be patient. My parents never let me forget the importance of respect, hard work, confidence, and again patience, and as much as I don’t want to admit it, they are right.
What unique qualities and or personality do you feel makes you most successful in your profession?
My personality allows me to adapt and work with a wide range of personalities and age groups. Although I am still early in my professional career, I have found that it is easy to get lost in day-to-day tasks. I take pride in the work I do, and I believe it is important to take work seriously, but I also believe that it is equally important to laugh and have fun along the way. I have been told that my personality boosts morale by bringing levity to the work environment.
What outside activities do you enjoy during your free time?
Golf has recently become a hobby of mine. At first, I was only planning on taking a few lessons with coworkers to network and meet other women in the industry, but that quickly changed, and I found myself with my own set of clubs. Over the past year and a half, I have been golfing with coworkers, friends, and I’ve even convinced some of my family members to give it a shot (no pun intended).
What inspiring words of advice would you give to a young woman about to go into the field of commercial real estate or your allied field?
I would encourage those interested in the field of engineering to research and understand the options available to them. There are an unlimited number of career paths, and you do not want to sell yourself short. Believe in yourself, have confidence, and be prepared to work hard. I would give this advice to anyone, but I find its especially important to young women entering a male-dominated industry.
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