I write software, implementing new concepts in flight deck displays for airplane flight simulators, so that new ideas can be demonstrated to customers and tested with pilots.

Science has always fascinated me, astronomy, chemistry, biology…  Although math by itself is not my favorite, when combined with engineering problems, it’s like solving a puzzle, difficult, but a rush when successful.

Being paid well and having job opportunities also influenced my choice.  I also wanted to be an artist, but I didn’t want to starve.  These days, my artistic side is expressed in hobbies.

Conjuring up an engineering solution using math reminds me of Hermione from Harry Potter using mysterious incantations to whip up a great spell!

I have a wonderful husband, two grown sons and daughter-in-laws, one grandson, and two cats.

Short-term, I want to incorporate more of my skills into my computer graphics work, adding algorithms based on math, artificial intelligence, systems design…

Long-term is more difficult to predict.  I could continue along the same path, or consider down-sizing or “retirement”.  I wouldn’t mind combining my engineering skills more with my artistic side; being involved with computer graphics for flight simulators is a good start.  When I do get to “retirement”, I might do more painting, or fabric and clothing design, that is, indulge and further develop my artistic side.

My hobby is being in a local music band.  Another woman and I sing the leads and harmonies to most of the songs, and the guys play guitar, bass and drums and do some singing too.  This is a very fun hobby, even though we are not even close to being famous.

I also paint and draw when on vacation.

Study hard; this is a challenging career, which is why it pays well and is in demand.  This allows you to achieve other goals (dream home, nice clothes) and be self-sufficient.  Taking on a challenge and succeeding is very satisfying.

Don’t sell out; be your own self.  It’s time for women to redefine being an engineer; it’s not just for nerds! 

My undergraduate degree is in electrical engineering from the University of Washington (BSEE).

Many years later, I completed earning a masters degree in computer science (MSCS) with a long-distance learning program through Walden University.