As Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day highlights the importance of diversity in STEM, the stories of Meghan Strahler, Bridges & Structures Senior Project Engineer, Lisa Whitehead, Highways & Traffic Engineering Geographic Discipline Leader, and Jessica Ross, Highways & Traffic Engineering Department Manager, serve as powerful reminders of what’s possible. They’ve worked on projects that connect communities, transform cities, and inspire future generations. Their message to young girls considering engineering is clear: the industry needs their ideas, perspectives, and passion. With determination, mentorship, and a drive to solve problems, the next generation of female engineers will shape the future in ways we have yet to imagine.
Building a Foundation
For many engineers, the journey begins with curiosity, or a fascination with how things work. Meghan Strahler’s love of bridges, growing up in Pittsburgh, made her career path almost inevitable. “I’ve always enjoyed bridges,” she said. “Engineering gave me a way to apply my mathematical skills to something tangible.” Her involvement in a university co-op program provided hands-on experience, reinforcing her passion for bridge design.
Lisa Whitehead found her footing in engineering through her appreciation for large-scale projects. “I liked the idea of designing something you can see with the naked eye,” she recalled. She started her education at a community college, exploring different disciplines before an internship introduced her to transportation engineering. That opportunity turned into a career she’s never looked back from.
Jessica Ross discovered her passion during high school, drawn to the problem-solving aspects of technology courses. She built model bridges and experimented with computer-aided drafting, realizing she wanted to make those concepts a reality. Her journey into civil engineering enabled her to channel that early curiosity into projects that reshape communities.
Overcoming Roadblocks
While their paths to engineering varied, each woman encountered unique challenges navigating a historically male-dominated industry. Early in her career, Lisa struggled with being heard in meetings and on job sites. “I’ve learned to assert myself and make sure my voice is heard,” she said. Her persistence paid off, enabling her to gain the respect of colleagues and clients alike.
Jessica, often the only girl in her high school classes, faced a similar challenge. “I never felt unsupported,” she said, “but it was definitely an adjustment.” Now, she actively mentors younger women, creating the kind of inclusive environment she wished she had early on.
For Meghan, the challenge came later, after becoming a mother. “It’s difficult to find role models who are managing both leadership roles and motherhood,” she noted. The balancing act requires flexibility, and she’s grateful for an employer that supports her needs.
Making a Lasting Impact
Beyond personal growth, what unites these women is their passion for creating something lasting. Meghan finds fulfillment in seeing a project come full circle. One of her most rewarding experiences was working on a bridge rehabilitation project in Pennsylvania. “It wasn’t a milestone structure but being able to see it from start to finish was incredibly fulfilling,” she said.
Jessica’s proudest moment was contributing to Buffalo, NY’s first protected bike lane, part of a complete street project that transformed over three miles of urban corridor. “It was amazing to see how the project revitalized the area, attracting businesses and creating a vibrant community space,” she explained. The long hours were worth it when she heard the community response to the transformation she helped design.
Lisa’s passion lies in work zone safety. “Creating safe work zones for both workers and the public is deeply important to me,” she said. Her commitment has been recognized with industry awards, but what matters most to her is making transportation safer and more efficient for everyone.
Empowering the Future of Engineering
As accomplished as these women are, they recognize the importance of paving the way for future engineers. Meghan emphasizes that success in engineering is about more than technical skills, it’s about communication. “You can’t succeed without being able to convey your ideas clearly,” she said.
Lisa encourages young women to believe in themselves. “Don’t doubt yourself. Know your worth and advocate for it,” she said. She also highlights the value of support systems, whether through professional organizations or mentorship.
Jessica echoes this, encouraging young women to embrace challenges and seek guidance. “Engineering is challenging but incredibly rewarding if you’re willing to put in the effort,” she said. She also sees mentorship as a crucial piece of the puzzle. “I didn’t have female mentors early on, so it’s important to me to be that person for someone else,” she added.
Lisa believes visibility is key. “If young girls don’t see women in leadership roles, they won’t know it’s possible for them,” she explained. Meghan adds that normalizing flexibility in the workplace is essential for inclusivity. “Creating a culture that supports everyone – parents, caregivers, and individuals alike – is key to building a more inclusive industry,” she said.
Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day is a call to action. By highlighting the contributions of women in engineering and advocating for a more inclusive industry, we can break down barriers and open doors for the next generation. Whether it’s through mentorship, leadership opportunities, or simply fostering a culture of support, each effort contributes to a future where engineering truly reflects the diverse world it serves.
Through their perseverance and passion, Meghan, Lisa, and Jessica are not just shaping infrastructure – they are shaping the future of engineering itself. Their stories remind us that the journey is just as important as the destination, and that the next generation of women engineers will continue to push the field forward with innovation, resilience, and a vision for progress.