Episode 5: Career Pathways in Engineering
In this episode of Empowering Engineering Educators, host Joe Hanson welcomes Terry Suffredini, a chemical engineering graduate from the University of Texas and a seasoned professional with a diverse career spanning environmental consulting, process design engineering, and life coaching. Terry shares her incredible journey of balancing a thriving engineering career with personal passions like dancing and parenting, while empowering others to find success and fulfillment in their professional lives.
Join us as we explore how Terry’s expertise can help inspire high school students and educators to navigate the dynamic world of engineering. With her unique insights as a life and career coach, Terry discusses practical strategies for breaking into engineering, adapting to change, and building long-term career satisfaction.
Where to listen:
Listen here:
Listen on Apple:
Listen on Spotify:
In this episode
Key Topics Covered:
- The top traits of successful engineers, including curiosity, collaboration, and a lifelong learning mindset.
- Career pathways in engineering, from two-year associate degrees to bachelor’s programs and beyond.
- Insights into emerging fields like AI engineering, software development, and sustainability.
- How to leverage internships, co-op programs, and certifications to build a competitive edge.
- The importance of planning, adaptability, and mentorship in navigating a fulfilling engineering career.
Terry also provides actionable advice on how students can align their career choices with their passions, make informed decisions about education and training, and stand out in competitive job markets. Her inspiring personal story of pivoting from a non-science major to a thriving engineering career offers valuable lessons for students, educators, and professionals alike.
Brought to you by Siemens
This episode is presented by Siemens, your partner in transforming high school engineering education. Explore Siemens’ project-based curriculum, advanced engineering software, classroom management tools, and professional development resources—designed to empower the next generation of innovators.
About Empowering Engineering Education
Hosted by PBS’s Joe Hanson (Be Smart), this podcast explores strategies, insights and resources for high school engineering classrooms. Hear from educators and experts as they share project-based learning techniques, real-world applications and innovative ways to make engineering exciting and accessible for all students.
Empowering Engineering Educators
“Empowering Engineering Educators” is an insider’s guide to transforming engineering education. Hosted by PBS’s Joe Hanson (Be Smart), this bi-weekly podcast delivers practical strategies, expert insights, and game-changing resources for high school engineering classrooms. Each 45-minute episode features leading educators and industry experts sharing real-world applications, project-based learning techniques, and innovative teaching methods that make engineering accessible and exciting for all students. From facilitating group projects to integrating cutting-edge technology, we’re here to help you inspire the next generation of engineers.
Listen on:
