Laura Pashley

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am a first generation graduate that studied Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering. I am currently an Aeronautical and Astronautical Structures Engineer. 

How did you become interested in STEM?

I was always curious about how things functioned and I took a part many contraptions around the house when I was a child. Around that time, I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up. I just enjoyed watching How It’s Made and Mythbusters with my father. He mentioned that I would make an excellent engineer due to my interests and said I should look into it. Turns out he was right and I’ve been passionate about it ever since.

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

Please go for it! There are so many resources available to help you learn anything you want to know about a STEM subject with little to no cost. There are also plenty of local resources that you can research that will help you thrive in STEM. If you notice your hometown does not have a particular club or STEM group that you’d like to see offered, make the group yourself. You are beyond capable of pursuing a career in STEM and don’t let anyone make you feel like you’re not. :)

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

Focus on girls that have a genuine interest in STEM subjects. Fan the flames of their curiosity by providing them with opportunities to learn more about STEM topics that interest them. Create STEM groups and clubs so that they can bond with other girls that are interested in STEM and build that community. Find STEM projects and help them explore their talents. Feed their interests and don’t force them to pursue something that they don’t have a passion for.

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

Boundless curiosity. You can learn anything you set your mind to, but you need to have that curiosity to drive you.