Laura Pashley

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what you do now? 

I am an Optical Engineer working in the aerospace industry.

How did you become interested in STEM?

Funny enough, through art. My mom is an artist (and very talented author) who encouraged me to think creatively. I think that tied in really well to the kind of problem-solving required in engineering. When I got to high school, I joined the FIRST Robotics Club and got to speak with and shadow real engineers.

What advice would you give to young girls who are interested in pursuing a career in STEM?

Don't be afraid to ask people to let you try things. You won't know what you like - or more importantly what you don't like, unless you give things a go.

What is one piece of advice you wish you had received when you were just starting out?

Don't get so worried about choosing the exact right path, you'll find your way there. Focus on jam-packing in as many different experiences as you can.

How do you handle failure or setbacks in your work?

The best thing to do is to learn from your mistakes and move on. When you first start off as an engineer, you've usually got a lot of people checking your work. Be grateful for the feedback and ask questions 

How can parents and educators encourage girls to explore STEM subjects from a young age?

I loved the STEM camps run by local colleges. I was lucky that my family sent me to a bunch. I got exposed to coding, biology, soldering, and much more. It was so exciting as a kid to be on the campuses and see the decked-out facilities. It made it a lot easier to picture what college could be like.

What skills do you think are most important for success in STEM fields? 

Collaboration & Creativity

How has your field changed since you first started your career?

I am lucky to have had and still have many amazing female mentors. I am only a few years out of grad school, but I can already see how attitudes are changing around women in engineering. I caught girls in STEM push at the tail end of middle school. I have been lucky enough to be a part of organizations and chapters that do STEM outreach to girls as young as elementary school.