Next up we have my Aunt, Ann B. She was born in Dubois, PA, and now lives about 45 minutes from that area. Some of her interests and hobbies include taking her dogs for walks in the woods, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and hanging out with her family.

I then asked her about her childhood. She explained, “I was born into a family where curiosity and problem-solving were encouraged, but there were also traditional expectations. My parents instilled in me a strong work ethic and a belief in the importance of family. While I was always fascinated by STEM, there was an underlying expectation that eventually, I would settle down and start a family. Despite these expectations, I pursued a degree in mechanical engineering, driven by my passion for understanding how things work. After graduating, I landed a job at a local engineering firm, where I thrived in a challenging and dynamic environment.”

However, as she entered her late twenties, the pressure to conform to societal norms intensified. She continued, “my parents, in particular, began to express their desire for me to settle down and start a family. Feeling torn between my career aspirations and familial expectations, I ultimately made the decision to prioritize starting a family. For several years, I dedicated myself to raising my children as a single mother. It was a rewarding experience, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. As my children grew older and became more independent, I found myself longing to reignite my passion for engineering.”

Eventually, she went back to engineering, and she has never been happier. She says, “My journey has taught me the importance of following your passions and challenging societal expectations. Today, I’m proud to be a role model for my children, showing them that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. I’m also passionate about empowering other women to pursue careers in STEM, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through mentorship and advocacy, I hope to inspire the next generation of female engineers and scientists.”

Ann has reflected much gratefulness for all the opportunities that have come her way. While her journey was not exactly linear, she would not change a thing. She said, “I’m living proof that it’s possible to balance a fulfilling career in STEM with the joys of motherhood, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”