In this episode, I talk with Katherine Fath Despinoy, P.E., PMP, Sarah Zarzecki, P.E., PMP, and Melissa Edsill Tiedemann, AICP, about a range of topics, including challenges faced by women in engineering roles, the importance of mentors, the role of professional societies, and the evolution of leadership styles.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Kate, Sarah, and Melissa:
- What initial challenges did you encounter as a woman without an engineering background working in an engineering company?
- How has connecting with mentors at various career stages influenced your professional development, and what guidance would you offer for identifying the right mentor?
- What made you decide to pursue engineering roles, and how did you know it was the right choice for you?
- How have you contributed to projects or teams, and what specific skills or unique strengths have you brought to the table?
- How did participating in professional societies early in your career create opportunities for learning and career advancement?
- What were some significant challenges you encountered in your engineering roles, and how did you successfully overcome them?
- Which projects do you consider highlights in your career, and what makes them particularly noteworthy?
- How does incorporating diverse perspectives in problem-solving contribute to improved outcomes in engineering projects?
- How has your leadership approach developed over time, and which key experiences have influenced this evolution?
- How do you perceive the role and perception of non-engineers in the engineering sector evolving over the past 20 years?
- Could you share a significant mistake or challenge from your career and explain how you converted it into a valuable learning experience that can be shared?
- Do you have a final piece of advice for young women who are considering a career in engineering?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Exploring Impactful Engineering Roles:
- In the world of STEM careers, women frequently face hurdles due to unconscious biases that cast doubt on their technical skills. It’s a common occurrence for them to be wrongly seen as having non-technical roles, overlooking their actual expertise. Although moving to different work environments might lessen these biases, the continual challenge of addressing and overcoming workplace prejudices remains.
- For a successful career, keep learning with mentors who offer guidance in various aspects. Seek a mentor within your company by asking your leaders. Get involved in professional societies for valuable mentorship opportunities. Embrace these chances to grow personally and professionally, especially for young and female engineers aspiring to become future leaders.
- People take different routes to engineering roles, with some finding a straightforward path ignited by early interest in math and science. Exposure to engineering outreach solidifies a shared passion for problem-solving, especially in practical civil engineering applications. This passion guides individuals through their education, forming a foundation for future pursuits.
- With over 20 years in engineering, Melissa shines in Brownfield’s redevelopment, grant funding, and environmental compliance. Her urban planning background helps secure grants, and at Stanley, she ensures projects follow regulations, playing a vital role in complex endeavors.
- Early involvement in professional societies is key for learning and advancement. Joining committees aligned with personal interests allows the development of leadership skills and showcases strengths to peers and potential clients, paving the way for career progression.
- Balancing demands in consulting, especially for high achievers, can be challenging. Recognizing the need to reprioritize is crucial for everyone. Climbing the leadership ladder makes finding mentors harder, reinforcing the importance of mentorship. Connecting with professionals for guidance is key, illustrating the value of giving back by mentoring emerging engineers.
- In two decades of engineering, Melissa highlights two key projects: a Brownfield redevelopment in her hometown, sparking her commitment to positive change, and active participation in flood relief during the 2008 flood in a new community. Now at Stanley, she contributes to flood protection solutions, marking a proud career moment.
- In engineering consulting, collaboration is crucial for effective problem-solving. Diverse perspectives ensure the best solutions for unique clients and problems. Early team collaboration in the planning phase guarantees comprehensive and cost-effective engineering solutions, promoting innovation and minimizing blind spots.
- In her evolving career, Sarah learns from diverse leadership styles, adopting effective strategies while avoiding what doesn’t work. Drawing parallels to parenting, she prioritizes empathetic communication and adapts to shifts like remote work and team changes. Blending different communication styles significantly shapes her approach in the dynamic workplace.
- In the past 20 years, the engineering sector has increasingly recognized the value of non-engineers such as scientists, geologists, and planners. Their contributions have broadened the scope of engineering projects, fostering a multidisciplinary approach. This shift, coupled with an increase in gender diversity, has enriched the sector, making it more inclusive and comprehensive.
- Early in her career, Kate made a mistake by placing a building on a self-created peak for drainage. This surprised her superiors. However, she learned to react, respond, and self-correct from such mistakes, preserving the joy in her career and preventing larger mistakes in the future.
- There’s a wide range of STEM activities today. College students can reach out to professionals for job shadows or day-in-the-life experiences if internships aren’t available. The STEM industry is ready to support future engineers.
More Details in This Episode…
About the Guests:
Katherine Fath Despinoy, P.E., PMP
Kate Despinoy has her Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering from Vanderbilt University and her Master of Engineering Management from Northwestern University. She has 16 years of engineering consulting experience and has been with Stanley Consultants for six years in their water and wastewater market. She is a project manager and client service manager and currently serves as the acting water market leader.
Sarah Zarzecki, P.E., PMP
Sarah Zarzecki is a highly skilled and experienced transportation engineer currently serving as the Transportation Design Department Manager and Colorado Transportation Leader at Stanley Consultants since January 2020. In this role, Sarah oversees all aspects of team management, including the supervision of 10 direct staff reports, project assignments, staffing for roadway and water resources engineers, and coordination with internal structures, traffic, and construction management teams. Her responsibilities extend to business development, client relationships, subcontractor coordination, and contract management.
Sarah holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Michigan Technological University, where she studied from 2002 to 2006. She is a licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) and a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), demonstrating her proficiency and commitment to her field. Her combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and dedication to transportation engineering makes her an asset to the industry.
Melissa Edsill Tiedemann, AICP
Melissa is an urban planner, economic development professional, and an experienced redevelopment practitioner. During her 20 years of professional experience, she has secured and managed millions of dollars of federal and state grant funding for Brownfield’s redevelopment and infrastructure improvements, performed Environmental Site Assessments to facilitate property transactions and redevelopment, and developed and implemented complex public engagements while mentoring junior members of staff. As Project Principal of the firm, she has the authority to represent Stanley Consultants in all contractual matters. She provides independent oversight to verify resources are allocated and the client’s needs are met. Her professional experience also includes providing technical and regulatory environmental services. Responsibilities have included working on a wide variety of projects to assist clients in planning for and meeting regulatory requirements.
About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani is the owner of Thrive Edge Publishing and owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering as well as a Master of Science degree in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is currently a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
As an engineer with more than 19 years of experience, Tiffani has a passion for inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift – 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book at www.stemistheway.com.
Sources/References:
Stanley Consultants
AWWA: The American Water Works Association
WEF: The Water Environment Federation
Connect with Katherine Fath Despinoy, P.E., PMP, on LinkedIn
Connect with Sarah Zarzecki, P.E., PMP, on LinkedIn
Connect with Melissa Edsill Tiedemann, AICP, on LinkedIn
This Episode Is Brought to You by Stanley Consultants
Improving Lives Since 1913. Stanley Consultants has been helping clients solve essential and complex energy and infrastructure challenges for over 110 years, completing more than 50,000 engagements in 120 countries and all 50 states and U.S. territories. Values-based and purpose-driven, Stanley is an employee-owned company of engineers, scientists, technologists, innovators, and client-service experts who are recognized for their commitment and passion to making a difference. For more information on Stanley Consultants, please visit https://www.stanleyconsultants.com.
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