Women in Electrical Engineering

Five Women in Electrical Engineering Reflect on Their Paths to Doctorates

In celebration of five women earning their PhDs in electrical engineering in 2021, we held a virtual Q&A session. Here are a few questions we asked and the responses of each graduate student.

Tanny Chavez

What led you to be an engineer?

HUONG: “My dad was an electrical engineer, and he is my inspiration. When I studied in high school, I loved physics, as it helps me to understand phenomena around us. I love to apply the knowledge from physics to real-world problems — that led me to be an engineer.”
MARZIA: “Due to my interest in math and physics, I was always drawn to be an engineer, and I never felt like being a woman could stop me from pursuing a degree in electrical engineering.”
NAGMA: “My interest in understanding the mathematical and physical concepts and practically applying it to construct something creative that can be used for humankind led me to consider engineering as my major after high school.”
RAYNA: “I wanted to become an engineer since I was 7. I guess something about problem solving has always attracted me. When I grew up, I realized how much I loved physics. I was particularly good at the electricity chapter, and that is why I pursued electrical engineering.”
TANNY: “I was inspired by my parents. Both of them are mechanical engineers, so I grew up learning a lot about their jobs.”

What was your experience at U of A like?

HUONG: “I love living here since the town is nice and people are friendly. I love studying here since I learn so much from our professors and colleagues.”
MARZIA: “I never felt any gender discrimination in my school. Most of the courses I took were very relevant to the industry, and I was also able to make a good network through my school.”
NAGMA: “My experience at the university was great. Every day brought a new learning opportunity in these four years. I never felt discriminated against being an international female student. More importantly, I was exposed to multidisciplinary research ideas and was encouraged to pursue them. The courses offered in the electrical engineering department helped me to understand the core concept of my research.”
RAYNA: “I was challenged with different projects and problems, which helped me grow and learn significantly. It was a great experience.”
TANNY: “It was overwhelmingly positive. I enjoyed my studies at the U of A, and I learned a lot from this experience. I was very happy that all my professors and colleagues were always kind and supportive.”

What are your hopes for women in the world of engineering?

HUONG: “I hope more women join the world of engineering, and I hope we have more equality in this field — as we continue to work hard every day.”
MARZIA: “I hope women don’t feel the need to prove themselves extra special. They are capable of anything, especially working as an engineer.”
NAGMA: “I hope to see the world of engineering being led by women!”
RAYNA: “I hope they can make a balance between their personal and professional lives, so they can pursue their dream jobs.”
TANNY: “I’d love for more women to be involved in the world of engineering, and even better, for them to be recognized for their achievements.”