Some know their calling as early as childhood. Others discovered it through unexpected opportunities. Every path is unique and begins with a spark, whether a moment of curiosity, a mentor’s encouragement or a challenge that pushes them forward.
March is Women’s History Month and March 2-8 marks Women in Construction Week, a time to recognize the impact of women in architecture, engineering and construction (AEC). It’s also a chance to celebrate those who not only shape the industry but also mentor and inspire the next generation.
Today’s feature highlights four engineers whose careers were defined by determination, opportunity and the support of mentors who helped them along the way. Their stories demonstrate the power of mentorship, the value of perseverance and the endless possibilities available in AEC for those willing to learn, grow and lead.
Maureen McDonnell
Program Manager
Finding Opportunity in a Changing Industry
My father, a chemical engineer, was my biggest supporter and encouraged me to pursue engineering. Math was always my strongest subject, so engineering felt like the right fit. When I graduated in the 1980s, new environmental regulations were emerging, and he encouraged me to pursue a career in the field, seeing how they impacted his company.
My first boss was also very influential in shaping my career. Working at a small environmental engineering firm allowed me to explore different areas, particularly construction. When I started working in construction, I had to learn to hold my own. It was a sink-or-swim experience, but my boss pushed me to dive in and trusted me to handle the challenge. I’m grateful for that confidence and the opportunities it gave me.
To those considering a career in engineering, explore all of your options. Engineering offers countless career paths, and you can shape your career in ways that fit your interests and lifestyle. I started my career in construction management, but when I had a family and wanted to travel less, I returned to my engineering roots and continued building a successful career.
Araceli Cortes
Highway Design Engineer
Finding Inspiration and Defying Limits
I prioritized academics in middle and early high school and joined numerous extracurricular activities. In one after-school club, I discovered engineering through a mentor who spoke passionately about her career. Being exposed to the idea of civil engineering and a university like Georgia Tech sparked my interest.
As a first-generation student, I didn’t have a clear roadmap for higher education, but I was determined to figure it out. I took advantage of every opportunity and sought people to guide me. I wanted a career that was challenging because I knew that was where I could grow and gain independence. My family was my greatest inspiration because I wanted to make them proud.
For future engineers, I suggest staying curious. Stay engaged in math, science and technology, as these are essential in the field. Equally important is to develop creativity — questioning how things work and exploring the world around you lays the foundation for success in engineering.
Ashley White
Senior Transportation Engineer
A Lifelong Passion for Structures
I’ve always been fascinated with structures, especially skyscrapers. When I was 11, I remember looking out the window as my dad drove through downtown Atlanta and being intrigued by the structural design of the buildings. I asked my dad what profession designs buildings, and the rest is history. That moment sparked an obsession. I read everything I could about architecture design and studied legendary architects Frank Lloyd Wright, Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe. In eighth grade, I placed in the top three at a social studies fair with my project on Roman architecture’s influence on modern design. Excited to keep learning, I took a drafting class in my senior year and loved it. In college, I pursued civil engineering with a structural focus, but my career ultimately led me into another exciting sector of transportation engineering.
My dad was my first and most instrumental influence, recognizing my strengths early and guiding me toward civil engineering. After I set my sights on Georgia Tech, he took me on visits to the campus, and I immediately felt at home. I worked hard to get there, taking SAT prep courses and enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP) classes. Along the way, supportive teachers motivated me and encouraged me to pursue my dreams. Today, I continue to draw inspiration from passionate colleagues and the students I meet through STEM outreach, who remind me why I love this field and give me a renewed sense of purpose.
Anyone thinking about engineering should go for it! Don’t let anything discourage you from pursuing your passion. I believe in writing down goals, big or small. Outline where you want to be in a year, five years or even ten. What GPA are you aiming for? What colleges interest you? What is your dream job? Break your plan into small, actionable steps and seek a mentor to help guide you, whether it’s a family member, teacher or STEM professional. Programs like Introduce a Girl to Engineering or Science ATL are great starting places.
Stephanie Pryor
Remediation Practice Team Manager
A Love for Learning
I developed a love for math and science in elementary school, and my parents always encouraged me to explore my interests. Long before STEM became mainstream, they fueled my curiosity with STEM-related toys. A career research assignment in high school helped me realize I wanted a career that combined problem-solving and creativity. With its variety of disciplines and opportunities, civil engineering was a natural fit.
My parents instilled in me a love for learning and a drive for excellence. My mother, a nurse, and my father, an aquatic biologist, were passionate about education and shared that enthusiasm with students. They supported me through college and beyond, especially when I considered changing my major. Instead of letting me give up, they encouraged me to take a semester to explore other interests. That decision helped me refocus and reaffirm my passion for engineering, leading me to graduate with a civil engineering degree and a business minor.
Engineering is a career of lifelong learning. It can be challenging, but it’s also rewarding. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who encourage and value your unique perspective. Don’t fear failure because persistence and resilience through setbacks often lead to even greater success.
Empowering the Next Generation
The AEC industry thrives on curiosity, problem-solving and the drive to create lasting impact. These stories prove that success isn’t defined by a single path, but by a willingness to learn, adapt and seize opportunities. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, there is a place for you in AEC.
Visit our career page to learn more about opportunities and connect with professionals who can help guide you in your next steps.