Since 1951, Engineers Week has inspired the next generation of STEM leaders by increasing understanding of and interest in engineering and technology careers. Parametrix has a vested interest in ensuring a diverse and well-educated future engineering workforce.
This week, the engineers of Parametrix share what inspires them, what they enjoy about engineering, favorite projects, advice, and how they are “reimagining the possible”.
Bailey recently joined Parametrix as an engineer with our Puget Sound Transportation team. She graduated from University of Washington with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in June 2021.
What inspired you to become an engineer?
In my rural hometown, work was something you had to do to get by and provide for your loved ones. I had heard of engineers– Nerds Who Were Cool®– that loved their jobs, and where being an engineer was a part of their identity, not just a survival method. The spark for me was seeing how engineering could break generational poverty and provide access to a higher quality of life.
What do you enjoy most about being an engineer?
I love that I get to utilize the critical thinking skills I built in pursuit of my degree across all aspects of my life. The way I communicate, listen, vote, and make daily life decisions, are all influenced by how I organize information, analyze systems, and problem solve. Especially in a global pandemic, scientific literacy and communication is a life skill. I also love working in a profession where the learning never stops, and getting to work on transit projects.
This year’s theme is “Reimagining the Possible.” How are you reimagining the possible in your career?
By reimagining what transit could look like in the United States. American infrastructure is very car-centric, and systematically excludes millions of people from accessing resources. We can, and must, build climate resilient transit systems and infrastructure that uplifts communities and provides for us all.
Anything else you would like to add?
Have compassion for yourself while going through your engineering degree. Ask for help and know your resources. College is really hard, and it’s easier and so much better when you have a support system to go through it with.
