In this episode, I talk with Marsaynee Attia, DPAC Reliability Engineer at Duke Energy Corporation, about the importance of seeking mentors and sponsors, communicating assertively, and staying up to date with industry trends. She also talks about the challenges she has faced as a woman in a male-dominated field and encourages women to be confident in their abilities and surround themselves with a supportive network of peers.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Marsaynee:
- Could you describe the responsibilities and tasks you handle as a Deep Pack reliability engineer on a day-to-day basis?
- Why is protective coordination crucial for circuits and controls in energy systems?
- As a woman in engineering, have you encountered any unique challenges or experiences in your career, and if so, how have you overcome them?
- What advice would you offer to women aspiring to enter the energy and utility sector or pursue a career like yours in engineering?
- What is the difference between a mentor and a sponsor?
- How do you ensure you stay updated on the latest industry trends and technologies to excel in your role?
- What advice would you give to aspiring female engineers aiming to excel in a male-dominated field and overcome potential challenges they might encounter?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Aspiring Female Engineers in the Energy Sector:
- As a Deep Pack reliability engineer, my main job is to keep the electrical grid safe from problems like overloads or accidents. This involves setting up protective devices like relays and reclosers to detect and fix issues quickly. Day-to-day tasks include checking new circuit installations, adjusting loads, and working with other teams to ensure everything runs smoothly. The goal is to make sure Duke Energy’s distribution system stays reliable and secure.
- Protective coordination is crucial for energy systems because it keeps both people and the grid safe. By coordinating devices like relays and fuses, it detects and handles problems like overloads or faults quickly. This prevents accidents, fires, and equipment damage, ensuring a reliable power supply while minimizing downtime.
- Women in engineering face unique challenges due to gender biases and stereotypes. These include doubts about their knowledge and assertiveness as well as cultural expectations undermining confidence. Overcoming these obstacles involves confidently asserting expertise, challenging stereotypes, seeking mentorship, and remaining determined to be recognized for skills and contributions, regardless of gender.
- For women aspiring to enter the energy and utility sector or pursue a career in engineering, seeking mentors is crucial. These mentors offer guidance and support based on their experiences, helping navigate challenges like office politics and self-doubt. Being assertive, confident, and embracing femininity as a strength is paramount. Competence and knowledge in your work help counter any attempts to undermine you. Finding mentors among other women who have faced similar challenges provides invaluable support in navigating a successful career path.
- The difference between a mentor and a sponsor is in their roles. A mentor offers guidance and advice, usually one-on-one, helping navigate career development. Meanwhile, a sponsor actively promotes the individual, advocating for their advancement within the organization by leveraging their influence and networks to create opportunities for career growth.
- To stay updated on the latest industry trends and technologies and excel in your role, prioritize networking and joining professional groups. Engage with peers, attend conferences, and participate in industry events to gain insights into the latest developments. This proactive approach ensures you remain informed about new skills and advancements, helping you adapt and thrive in your field.
- For aspiring female engineers in male-dominated fields, remember you’re capable and clever. Don’t hold your voice back, and continually learn and improve. Your skills speak louder than any judgment. Stay confident, surround yourself with supportive people, and aim for growth.
More Details in This Episodeโฆ
About the Guest: Marsaynee Attia
Marsaynee Attia is a Senior Distribution Protection, Automation, and Coordination/Control Engineer at Duke Energy, a distinguished energy and utility company. With a wealth of experience in her field, she specializes as a DPAC Reliability Engineer, where her role is instrumental in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the energy grid.
Marsaynee’s responsibilities encompass providing vital technical support for protective coordination and settings, a critical aspect of energy distribution and grid modernization. She plays a central role in delivering functional and field support for distribution automation devices, contributing to the ongoing modernization efforts.
Furthermore, Marsaynee is entrusted with the completion of distribution engineering studies, an essential component in supporting the establishment of distributed generation interconnection standards across various jurisdictions. Her expertise extends to the completion of Protection & Coordination Reviews/Studies, where she not only identifies areas for improvement but also recommends necessary changes for enhanced performance.
In her role, Marsaynee actively provides settings and settings files for all protection devices and distribution automation devices, a vital aspect of ensuring the optimal operation of the energy grid. Her commitment to excellence is further demonstrated through her involvement in the Protection, Quality, Reliability & Integrity (PQR&I) Program, where she upholds the highest industry standards.
Marsaynee’s work extends beyond the confines of her office, as she conducts Lite Reviews on studies completed by DG contractors, ensuring compliance and efficiency in project execution. Data acquisition plays a pivotal role in her responsibilities, expediting project completion and guaranteeing the timely delivery of critical energy services.
In addition to these key responsibilities, Marsaynee performs a wide range of system studies tailored to Independent Power Producer (IPP) projects, gaining invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of the energy sector. Her expertise also extends to the review of settings for Solar Interconnection, contributing to the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid.
Marsaynee Attia’s career reflects her unwavering commitment to technical excellence and her dedication to ensuring the reliable and efficient operation of the energy grid. Her technical reviews for new IPP requests and her involvement in the completion of policy reviews and revisions for interconnection standards underscore her invaluable contribution to the energy and utility sector. With a rich and diverse background, Marsaynee is a driving force in the field of distribution protection and automation, making her an indispensable asset to Duke Energy and the industry.
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 childrenโs book โWhat Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,โ 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 atย www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift โ 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book atย www.stemistheway.com.
Sources/References:
Duke Energy Corporation
National Society of Black Engineers
NSBE Charlotte Professionals
Connect with Marsaynee Attia on LinkedIn
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share about female engineers in the energy sector.
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