Closing Women's History Month Celebrating Latina Engineers

As Women's History Month comes to an end, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable achievements of women in engineering, particularly Latina engineers. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center with my family and friends who are like family to me. While there, I was struck by the pride I felt as I read about Dr. Ellen Ochoa, who was being highlighted for her groundbreaking accomplishments. Dr. Ochoa's legacy as the first Hispanic astronaut to venture into space serves as a powerful reminder of the incredible contributions Latina engineers have made to STEM fields. Alongside Dr. Ochoa, pioneers like Dr. Yajaira Sierra-Sastre, an environmental engineer known for her research on sustainable water management practices, and Diana Trujillo, a Colombian aerospace engineer who played a pivotal role in the Mars rover missions, exemplify the ingenuity and resilience of Latina engineers. As a proud Latina engineer, I am acutely aware of the underrepresentation we face in this field. Yet, I am also passionate about the importance of Latinas in engineering and the steps we can take to bridge the gap in representation, opportunities, and recognition within the field.

I still remember the day I graduated with my industrial engineering undergraduate degree from the University of Puerto Rico, Recinto Universitario de Mayagüez, ?Colegio! (Best engineering school in PR, I said what I said ha-ha). After this, I went onto graduate school and completed a Ph.D. in engineering in 2012, an incredible journey, shaped by countless hours of study, hard work, and determination.

Recently, I delved into data about Latina enrollment and degree attainment in engineering. The results left me disheartened. While there's a positive trend and things are moving in the right direction, the gap is still appalling. Back in 2012, the year I graduated with my engineering doctoral degree, only 48 Latinas graduated with doctoral engineering degrees, representing a mere 0.5% of the total doctoral engineering degrees awarded that year nationwide. Let that sink in—I was one out of 48 in the entire United States. By 2022, the numbers had increased slightly to about 140 Latinas, representing 1.05% of the total doctoral degrees awarded that year. While progress is evident, there is still much to be done.

The challenges faced by Latina engineers extend beyond mere representation statistics. Latinas in engineering also contend with disparities in pay, where they earn significantly less than their male counterparts and non-Latina counterparts. According to data from the National Society of Professional Engineers, Latina engineers earn, on average, only 80 cents for every dollar earned by white male engineers. This wage gap not only undermines the financial security of Latina engineers but also perpetuates inequality within the profession.

Additionally, Latinas often encounter barriers to advancement and leadership opportunities in engineering. They may face subtle biases and stereotypes in the workplace, hindering their professional growth and limiting their access to higher-level positions. Studies have shown that Latinas are underrepresented in executive and managerial roles within engineering firms, despite possessing comparable qualifications and expertise. This lack of upward mobility not only stifles the career aspirations of Latina engineers but also hampers the overall diversity and inclusivity of the engineering profession.

Despite these challenges, the importance of Latinas in engineering cannot be overstated. Latinas bring unique perspectives, experiences, and talents to the table, enriching the profession and driving innovation. Moreover, increasing the representation of Latinas in engineering is crucial for fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the STEM workforce. By empowering Latinas to pursue careers in engineering, we can tap into a vast pool of untapped talent and ensure that our engineering solutions are more inclusive and reflective of the diverse needs of society.

In addressing these challenges, it's essential to recognize the systemic barriers and biases that disproportionately affect Latina engineers and to implement targeted strategies for change. To address the gap and empower more Latinas in engineering, concerted efforts are needed at various levels. Here are some of them:

Mentorship and Support:

Mentorship programs play a crucial role in providing Latina engineering students with the guidance, support, and career advice they need to navigate the challenges of the field. By pairing students with experienced professionals who can offer insights and mentorship, these programs help foster confidence, build networks, and provide valuable resources for career development. Additionally, mentorship relationships can serve as a source of inspiration and motivation, encouraging Latinas to pursue their goals and aspirations in engineering. Furthermore, ongoing mentoring and coaching are essential throughout the career journey of Latina engineers, ensuring they have the support and guidance needed to persist and excel in their chosen path.

Outreach and Education:

Increasing outreach efforts to middle and high school students, particularly in underserved communities, is essential for sparking interest in STEM fields and providing resources for pursuing engineering careers. Outreach programs can include hands-on workshops, STEM camps, and career fairs that expose students to the diverse opportunities available in engineering. By providing access to educational resources, mentorship, and support, these initiatives help break down barriers to entry and empower Latinas to pursue their passions in engineering.

Representation and Visibility:

Showcasing the accomplishments and stories of Latina engineers is crucial for inspiring future generations and challenging stereotypes about who belongs in the field of engineering. Events, conferences, and online platforms like LinkedIn provide opportunities to highlight the achievements of Latina engineers and celebrate their contributions to the profession. By increasing visibility and representation, we can create role models and mentors for aspiring Latina engineers, fostering a sense of belonging and inspiring them to pursue careers in engineering.

Advocacy and Policy:

Advocating for policies and initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in engineering education and the workforce is essential for creating a more equitable and supportive environment for Latinas in engineering. This includes supporting scholarship programs, recruitment efforts, and workplace initiatives that prioritize diversity and inclusion. Additionally, advocating for policies that address systemic barriers and biases, such as pay equity and promotion opportunities, is crucial for leveling the playing field and creating opportunities for Latinas to succeed in engineering careers.

Professional Development and Networking:

Providing opportunities for professional development and networking is essential for empowering Latinas in engineering and advancing their careers. This can include access to training programs, workshops, and conferences that provide technical skills, leadership development, and networking opportunities. Additionally, creating affinity groups or professional organizations for Latina engineers can provide a supportive community where members can share experiences, resources, and advice. By investing in professional development and networking opportunities, we can empower Latinas to thrive in their careers and contribute to the advancement of the engineering profession.

However, the journey does not end with the identification of challenges and the proposal of solutions. It requires ongoing commitment and collaboration from individuals, organizations, and policymakers to effect meaningful change. As we reflect on the importance of Women's History Month and celebrate the achievements of Latina engineers, I am reminded of my own journey in the field of engineering. From the halls of UPRM to the moment I received my doctoral degree, my path has been shaped by perseverance, determination, and the support of mentors and allies along the way. Yet, I recognize that my journey is just one among many, and that the challenges I faced are shared by countless Latina engineers striving to make their mark in a predominantly male and non-Latino environment.

As we recommit ourselves to the work ahead, I am inspired by the resilience and ingenuity of Latina engineers who continue to defy the odds and break down barriers in pursuit of their dreams. Together, let us advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in engineering, ensuring that every individual, regardless of gender or background, has the opportunity to succeed and make a difference in the world of engineering.

While the path forward may be challenging, it is also filled with opportunities for growth, empowerment, and positive change. Let us continue to harness the power of diversity and build a more inclusive and equitable engineering community—one where every voice is heard, every talent is valued, and every dream is within reach.