She's an Engineer
She's an Engineer is a podcast dedicated to building a community for women in engineering. The hosts share personal experiences and challenges faced while studying and working in the field. Episodes cover social topics from college and post-college years, interviews with other female engineers, and technical topics they have researched. The podcast aims to inspire and support women in engineering.
Episodes
100th Episode!!
Hi all, sorry we have been MIA! We have been busy. Hope you all enjoy our 100th episode!- Shannon and Emma
Travel Recommendations and Tips!
In this episode, we discuss recent trips we have been on, some travel recommendations, how to choose where to go, housing, and general tips for when you are traveling! We hope you enjoy!
Barriers Women in STEM Overcome
In this episode, we discuss our own experiences as women in STEM and medicine, some assumptions that have been made about us, and barriers that we have needed to overcome in our careers. We also discuss general issues that women in medicine and in STEM face, and some studies that have been published regarding these issues. We hope you enjoy!Book Shannon mentioned: Lean In: Women, Work, and the Wil
The History of Fire Management
In this episode, we discuss the history of fire management, its challenges, and the current policies regarding fire management (wildfires). We also discuss some tips on how you can protect your own home and how to create an emergency plan if a forest/wildfire occurs near your home. We hope you enjoy!Sources:Wildfires and Forest Management | The Nature Conservancy in IdahoPnw_2005_donovan003.pdfNat
A No-Buy/Low-Buy Guide
In this episode, we discuss why people do no-buy/low-buy years/periods, what they are, some rules to follow, and tips on how to be successful with a no-buy or low-buy year! We hope you enjoy!Financial/Sustainable Spending Creators discussed:Shawna Ripari - https://www.youtube.com/@shawnaripariCaleb Hammer - https://www.youtube.com/calebhammer Graham Stephan/The Iced Coffee Hour - https://www.youtu
The History of Time Zones
In this episode, we discuss the history of time zones, why time zones were established, the different time zones that exist currently, and daylight savings time.
We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
https://www.bts.gov/explore-topics-and-geography/geography/geospatial-portal/history-time-zones-and-daylight-saving
https://www.thoughtco.com/what-are-time-zones-1435358
https://www.timeanddate.com/time/time-zo
Sustainability and the Holidays!
Happy Holidays! In this episode, we are discussing practicing sustainability during the holidays, including why we should practice sustainability, as well as ways to be sustainable with holiday food, gifts, wrapping gifts, decor, and more! We hope you enjoy, and we will see you all again in the new year!
Please check out our previous sustainability episode and our previous gifting episode from la
Hiking Tips and Tricks
In this episode, we discuss our backgrounds in hiking, our favorite hikes, and some hiking and safety tips! We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
Your Safety in Mountain Lion Habitat - Point Reyes National Seashore (U.S. National Park Service)
How to stay safe if you encounter a moose
https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/crampons-snow-ice-climbing.html
4th Podaversary + Remarkable Women in STEM Part 7!
Hi all, this episode is a special one, as it is our 4th Podaversary (aka marking 4 years of publishing this podcasts)! In this episode, we talk about 3 remarkable women in STEM - Adele Goldberg, Barbara McClintock, and Beatrice Hicks. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
https://www.extremenetworks.com/resources/blogs/women-who-changed-tech-dr-adele-goldberg
https://computerhistory.org/profile/adele-g
Getting Your Professional Engineering License
In this episode, we discuss the requirements for obtaining your PE license, the PE exam, and the PE application process. Shannon also discusses her own PE license journey! We hope you enjoy!
We have included a YouTube Channel that was particularly helpful with practice questions/explanations:
Series Introduction - Episode 0 | 52 PE Exam Problems in 52 Weeks - YouTube
Sources:
PE Exam | NCEES
Se
The Residency Match Process
In this episode, we talk about The Match for medical residency programs, the timeline, materials needed, and an overview on how applicants and programs are "matched" together. We hope you enjoy! If you have any questions about the process, leave them in the question section below, or reach out to us directly!
Women & Field Work
In this episode, we discuss our experiences with field work and the manufacturing floor, problems when working in the field, and ways to improve the field work experience for women. We hope you enjoy!
Introduction to Stormwater Management
In this episode, we introduce stormwater management, why it is important, permitting, standards for design, and stormwater infrastructure. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
Urbanization and Stormwater Runoff | US EPA
Green Infrastructure Design and Implementation | US EPA
NPDES: Stormwater Best Management Practices, Stormwater Wetland (epa.gov)
6PPD-quinone | US EPA
Sustainable Architecture
In this episode, we discuss the benefits of sustainable architecture, its characteristics, as well as examples of sustainable architecture. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
https://www.barker-associates.co.uk/service/architecture/what-is-sustainable-architecture/
https://www.thespruce.com/what-is-sustainable-architecture-4846497
https://www.thespruce.com/eco-friendly-building-materials-1821766
https:/
How it Works: Pickling/Fermentation
In this episode, we discuss the science behind pickling and fermentation, as well as how you can pickle/ferment foods yourself! We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
https://asiasociety.org/education/science-pickling-and-fermentations
https://nchfp.uga.edu/how/pickle/general-information-pickling/general-information-on-pickling/#gsc.tab=0
https://www.foodandwine.com/vegetables/pickled-vegetables/science-vin
Skyscrapers: The Race to the Sky (Part 2)
In this episode, we discuss skyscrapers in the late 1920s, and the race to the sky. In this episode, we discuss 40 Wall Street, the Chrysler Building, and the Empire State Building. We hope you enjoy!
A Brief History of Skyscrapers (Part 1)
A note from Shannon and Emma: We have changed our logo! Please check it out!
In this episode, we discuss skyscrapers, the history of skyscrapers, and notable skyscrapers. In part two, we will discuss the race to construct the world's tallest building. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
Home Insurance Building (history.com)
Manhattan Skyscrapers | American Experience | Official Site | PBS
BUILDING B
Natural Disasters: Earthquakes and Volcanoes
In this episode, we discuss the science behind earthquakes and volcanoes, as well as the history of earthquakes and volcanoes in the US, including currently active volcanoes.
Sources:
https://www.space.com/earthquakes-facts-science
https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/how-do-volcanoes-erupt
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/volcanoes/anatomy-of-a-volcano.htm
https://www.usgs.gov/programs/earthquake-hazards/cool-
Coffee Chats Episode 2: Work/Life Balance and Hobbies
In this episode, we discuss our hobbies, and how we allocate time for hobbies, friends and family, and self-care when we have busy schedules! We hope you enjoy!!
International Women’s Day!
In this episode, we discuss the history and origins of international women’s day, as well as how it is celebrated around the world.
Introduction to Project Management
In this episode, we discuss the role of a project manager, skills needed for project management, and tips on how to get into project management if you are interested. We hope you enjoy!
Happy Lunar New Year!
Happy Lunar New Year! In this episode, we discuss lunar new year traditions, legends, and foods eaten. We hope you have a prosperous Year of the Dragon!
Long-Term Goal Planning
In this episode, we discuss how to create long term plans ( 5 and 10 year plans), the questions to ask yourself, and resources that may be useful. We also discuss our own long-term plans, as well as tips for organizing these plans. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
https://hbr.org/2023/09/how-to-develop-a-5-year-career-plan
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-make-a-5-year-pl
Women in Flight
In this episode, we discuss notable women in flight such as Amelia Earhart, Geraldine Mock, Willa Brown, and more, celebrating and discussing their lives and their achievements.
Sources:
(1) https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/amelia-earhart
(2) https://sterlingflight.com/7-famous-female-aviators-besides-amelia-earhart/
Holiday Cheer: Some Gift Ideas!
Welcome to our last episode of 2023! Before we take our annual holiday break, we're going to discuss some gift ideas for friends, significant others, parents, siblings, and coworkers/supervisors. We hope you enjoy! Happy holidays and happy new year! See you all in 2024.
Engineering/Medical Consulting 101
In this episode, we discuss the roles of engineering and medical consultants, as well as pros/cons, and the project process. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
(1) https://physiciansthrive.com/physician-consultant/#:~:text=Physician%20consultants%20can%20work%20as,practicing%20medicine%20and%20seeing%20patients.
(2) https://www.physiciansidegigs.com/medical-consulting-101
Coffee Chats Episode 1: 3-Year Podaversary
Happy Halloween everyone! In this episode, we give updates on our professional and personal lives, talk about our favorite podcast episodes from the past year, and our goals for the upcoming year. We hope you enjoy!
Changes in Seasons: Fall/Winter Plant Adaptations
In this episode, we discuss why leaves fall, how plants prepare for winter, how leaves change colors, and where to find the best fall foliage. We hope you enjoy!
Fall Foliage Map:
2023 Fall Foliage Map & Nationwide Peak Leaf Forecast (smokymountains.com)
Sources:
https://www.si.edu/stories/why-do-leaves-change-color-fall
https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Forestry/Foliage/Why-Leaves-Change-Color
ht
Joining Professional Organizations
In this episode, we discuss joining professional organizations, and the benefits of doing so, during college and post-college. We hope you enjoy!
History of Women in Medicine
In this episode, we discuss the current demographics of women in medicine, and some notable women in medicine from history. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
https://www.beckersasc.com/asc-news/states-with-the-highest-percentage-of-female-physicians-report.html
https://www.merritthawkins.com/news-and-insights/blog/healthcare-news-and-trends/women-in-medicine-a-timeline-of-15-pioneers-and-innovators/
Changing Jobs
In this episode, we discuss the process of changing jobs and leaving your job, as well as Shannon’s own experience in doing so. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
1. https://hbr.org/2022/02/6-signs-its-time-to-leave-your-job
2. https://www.today.com/money/reasons-to-quit-job-rcna79211
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/burnout/art-20046642
Women and the Civil War
In this podcast, we continue our women in history series, and talk about the role of women in the civil war, with a special guest, Robbie Suriano. We explore the work of Harriet Tubman, Harriet Beecher Stowe, various women soldiers, and General Order 28. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/harriet-tubman
https://www.battlefields.org/learn/a
My Career Path (thus far): Shannon
In this episode, we delve into and reflect on Shannon's childhood interests, role models, high school and college, and graduate classes and experiences that led her to major in civil engineering, and then pursue the field of environmental engineering. We discuss more about her decision to switch companies/roles.
My Career Path (thus far): Emma
In this episode, we delve into and reflect on Emma's childhood interests, role models, high school and college classes and experiences that led her to major in bioengineering, and then pursue the field of medicine. It's still a work in progress, but we are all still growing and learning!
Women and the American Revolution
Happy Fourth of July! In this episode, we discuss the role of women before, during, and after the American Revolution.
Happy International Women in Engineering Day!
Happy International Women in Engineering Day! In this episode, we are joined by guest host Tiffany Smith, to discuss the purpose of international women in engineering day (INWED), and the history of INWED. We also discuss the history of the Women's Engineering Society (WES), who helped found INWED, as we as the role of women engineers in World War 1 and beyond.
Here's where you can join t
Thoughts on Changing Your Surname After Marriage
In this episode, we have guest host Tiffany back on the podcast again for coffee time! We first discuss the history of women changing their surnames after marriage, as well as some current statistics. During coffee time, we discuss the process of changing surnames (from her maiden name to her husband's surname) after marriage, as she has been going through this process, as well as her reasonin
Remarkable Women in Stem: Part 6
In this episode, we continue our "Remarkable Women in STEM" series, discussing the lives and accomplishments of Mary Anning and Nettie Stevens. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
(1) https://www.britannica.com/biography/Mary-Anning
(2) https://publish.illinois.edu/womeningeology/mary-anning/
(3) https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/mary-anning-unsung-hero.html
(4) https://www.britannica.com/biograph
What I’ve Learned: Moving out West
In this episode, Shannon discusses everything she’s learned after moving out west from the Midwest/PA/OH region. We also give some tips and tricks from our Zion trip last year!
Engineering a Rollercoaster: History and Design
In this episode, we discuss the history of rollercoasters, its origin, and how they are designed, built, installed, and tested. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
(1) https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/coney-century-screams/#:~:text=The%20roller%20coaster%20has%20its,with%20wheels%20for%20summer%20use.
(2) https://attractionsmagazine.com/how-are-roller-coasters-built-infographic/#:~:te
Engineering the Perfect Garden
In this episode, we discuss planning, planting, and the maintenance of a garden, as well as companion planting. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
https://www.burpee.com/blog/gardening-101.html
https://www.burpee.com/blog/what-plants-grow-well-together-a-road-map-to-your-garden.html
https://www.burpee.com/blog/companion-planting-guide_article10888.html
https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/
History of Women in Biking
In this episode, we have Matt Steele on as guest host to discuss the history of women in bicycling, including the role it played in the women's suffrage movement. We hope you enjoy!
Sources:
https://www.kittelson.com/ideas/womens-bikes-an-intersectional-look-at-the-history-of-women-and-their-bicycles/
"Two Wheels Good" By: Jody Rosen
An Overview of the Ohio Train Derailment (An Environmental Engineer's Perspective)
In this episode, we discuss the Norfolk Southern train that derailed in East Palestine, Ohio on February 3rd, 2023. We discuss the cause of the derailment, the initial actions by the EPA and the State of Ohio, the chemicals of concern that were onboard the train, the effects of contamination, as well as the path forward.
Sources:
https://www.npr.org/2023/02/23/1158972561/east-palestine-train-dera
Alternative Uses of Biosolids (AKA Poopcast Part 2 of 2)
In this episode, we discuss current biosolid management and application, as well as alternative uses for biosolids in the home and in municipalities.
Sources:
1) https://www.epa.gov/biosolids/basic-information-about-biosolids
2) https://www.biosolids.com.au/info/what-are-the-different-forms-of-biosolids/
3) https://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/materials_minerals_pdf/facts.pdf
4) https://extension.missouri
Introduction to Municipal Wastewater Treatment (Part 1 of 2)
In this episode, we discuss what happens to water once you flush the toilet or wash your hands in the sink! This is part 1 of a two-episode miniseries discussing wastewater and biosolids. Hope you enjoy!
Sources:
(1) https://www.oconomowoc-wi.gov/270/Treatment-Steps
(2) https://www.coleparmer.com/tech-article/eight-stages-of-wastewater-treatment-process
(3) https://www.coldwater.org/272/The-Waste
Goal Setting and SMART Goals
In this episode, we discuss goal-setting and the criteria for SMART goals. We also include a few examples of our own goals - personal, professional, and for the podcast. Hope you enjoy!
Physical Health and Wellness!
Happy new year!
In this episode, we discuss ways to stay physically healthy with nutrition and exercise, as well as ways to stay mentally healthy, both personally and professionally.
An Interview with an Experienced Civil Engineer
Happy New Year everyone! In this episode, Shannon interviews her father, Mr. Ralph Kronz about his career in civil engineering. We hope you enjoy!
Remarkable Women in STEM Part 5
In this episode, we continue our series on remarkable women in STEM/engineering. In this episode, we discuss the lives and accomplishments of three women: Lise Meitner, Elizabeth Blackwell, and Mary Elizabeth Walton. We hope you enjoy!
Additionally, thank you all for listening to our podcast in 2022, we will be taking a short holiday break and will see you all in the new year!
Sources:
(1) https:
The Science Behind Baking Bread
In this episode, we discuss the science and chemical processes behind making bread. We also discuss our favorite and your favorite types of bread! Happy Thanksgiving!
How it Works: Bridge Building
In this episode, we discuss how bridges are built and some popular designs.
2 Year Podaversary Episode! - Our Goals for the Upcoming Year
In this episode, we are celebrating our 2 year podaversary! We also discuss some personal and career goals, as well as goals for the podcast. As we reach these goals, we will be providing updates in future podcast episodes.
First Year of Work/Med School - What We Have Learned
In this episode, Shannon and Emma continue this three-part series, discussing all they have learned in the first year of working as an engineer, and in medical school. Stay tuned for the next episode, in which we will discuss our goals for the next year!
First Year of Work/Med School - FAQ
In this episode, Shannon and Emma answer some frequently asked questions about their jobs and graduate school. This is a two-part series, so stay tuned for the next episode, where we will discuss goal-setting and what we have learned in the past year.
Designing an Energy-Efficient Home/Building
In this episode, our friend Tiffany, is back as guest host! We discuss ways to make your home more energy-efficient, why you should do so, and the certifications that you can receive after designing an energy-efficient building. We hope you enjoy! There will be a poll attached - answer if you would like to!
Sources:
(1) https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2017/03/f34/qtr-2015-chapter5.pdf
(2)
The Plastics Recycling Process
In this episode, we are joined by our friend (and previous guest co-host) Tiffany, to discuss the different types of plastics, the plastics recycling process, and how we can all do our best to contribute to our planet's health! Some of the companies we mentioned in the episode that work on alternative plastics include Origin, and Danimer Scientific.
As always, if anyone has a question, or c
Engineering the Perfect Cup of Tea
In this episode, we discuss the history of tea, how different types of tea are produced, and the ideal brewing methods and temperatures for tea. We hope you enjoy!
Sources used:
https://gracetea.com/history
http://www.coffeeteawarehouse.com/tea-history.html
https://www.artfultea.com/tea-wisdom-1/types-of-tea-a-comprehensive-guide
https://www.artfultea.com/tea-wisdom-1/tea-brewing-temperature-guid
Engineering Design Series: Civil and Environmental Engineering
In this episode, the fourth and final episode of our Engineering Design Series, we discuss the ins and outs of civil, structural, and environmental engineering design.
Engineering Design Series: Mechanical Engineering
In this episode, we continue our engineering design series, this time, discussing mechanical engineering, robotics, and entrepreneurship with our friend, Jack. Hope you enjoy!
Engineering Design Series: Bioengineering
In this episode, Shannon interviews Emma about her experiences with the design process in bioengineering. We hope you enjoy!
Engineering Design Series: Intro to Engineering Design (Ep. 1)
This is the first episode in a series of episodes about engineering design - where we will cover engineering design in a variety of engineering specialties (bioengineering, civil, mechanical, chemical, etc.). In this episode, we introduce the basics of engineering design.
Sources:
(1) https://www.twi-global.com/technical-knowledge/faqs/engineering-design-process#:~:text=The%20engineering%20
How it Works: Tunnel Construction & Submarine Cables
In the first episode of this series, How it Works, we discuss the process of tunnel construction, what submarine cables are, and how they are laid on the ocean floor.
Sources:
1. https://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/structural/build-underwater-tunnel.htm
2. https://wonderopolis.org/wonder/how-do-you-build-a-tunnel-underwater#:~:text=To%20use%20this%20method%2C%20builders,pump%20out%20any
A Brief History of Women in Engineering
In this episode, we discuss how women have played a role in engineering in the past two centuries, as well as notable women and their accomplishments.
Remarkable Women in STEM Part 4
In this episode, we discuss three remarkable women: Sally Ride, Ellen Swallow Richards, and Patricia Bath.
Sources:
https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/sally-ride
https://cfmedicine.nlm.nih.gov/physicians/biography_26.html
https://lemelson.mit.edu/resources/patricia-bath
https://wams.nyhistory.org/modernizing-america/modern-womanhood/ellen-swallow-richards/
https://www.s
16 Personality Types in the Workplace
In this episode, we discuss the 16 Myers-Briggs Personality Types, how it translates to the workplace, and our personal experiences dealing with different personalities on teams at work.
Prioritizing Mental Health in the Workplace
In this episode, we discuss why it is important to institute mental health support programs in the workplace, and ways that you can support your own mental health/lower your stress levels.
Note: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 in a multitude of languages. The number is 800-273-8255. Please reach out to them if you are having thoughts about suicide or self-harm. If you ar
Engineering the Perfect Cup of Coffee
In this episode, we discuss how coffee is made - from start to finish. We discuss the roasting process, grinding sizes and brewing processes. Hope you enjoy coffee as much as we do!
Staying Motivated at Work and School
In this episode, we discuss our tips for staying motivated, whether that be in the workplace, or at school. Hope you all enjoy!
Special Topic: Harm Reduction and Substance Use
In this episode we discuss the principles behind harm reduction as it relates to substance use, as well as Emma's capstone project at the University of Pittsburgh that relates to harm reduction. Please keep in mind that we are not professionals and are still learning and growing - so we welcome any and all feedback!
Finding harm reduction resources: https://harmreduction.org/resource-center/harm-r
Reflections
In this episode, we reflect upon on current and past career goals, and what we want to achieve in our professional lives for the new year. We hope you enjoy!
Special Topic: PFAS Contamination
In this episode, we discuss the Tennant vs DuPont case, as outlined by the book, Exposure by Rob Bilott, as it relates to PFAS contamination and evaluation by the EPA. This topic was also covered by the movie, Dark Waters (which we would highly recommend!)
Remarkable Women in STEM Part 3
In this episode, we discuss three remarkable women in STEM: their lives and their accomplishments. These three women are Florence Nightingale, Edith Clarke, and Lillian Gilbreth. We hope you enjoy!
Rita Colwell's Memoir: A Lab of One's Own
In this episode, we discuss Rita Colwell's life and accomplishments as outlined by her memoir, A Lab of One's Own: One Woman's Personal Journey Through Sexism in Science. We delve into her work as the first female NSF director, cholera research, the history of Title IX, and more.
The 1 Year Pod-aversary Episode!
Hi all! This episode marks 1 year since the launch of She's an Engineer. In this episode, we discuss behind the scenes: how we plan, record, and edit our podcasts, as well as reflect upon the past year: what we have learned since starting the podcast, and what plans we have for the future! This episode also marks the launch of our new music.
We thank you all so much for supporting the podcas
Professional Attire
In this episode, we discuss the standards for professional attire in the workplace, and how to navigate dressing business professional, business casual, engineering casual, and for field work.
Building Your Professional Brand
In this episode, we discuss what it means to build and develop your own professional brand, and what you should and should not do during this process.
Starting a Business
In this episode, we interview one of Root's co-founders, Eric. He discusses how he started Root, gained funding, and eventually, sold the company this past year.
A Day in the Life as an Environmental Engineer: Shannon
In this episode, Shannon and Emma discuss Shannon's daily life as an environmental engineer, working for a consulting firm in Boise. This is our second episode of the series, "A Day in the Life".
A Day in the Life as a Medical Student: Emma
In this episode, Emma and Shannon discuss and go through Emma's daily routine as a medical student. This is the first episode of a series "A Day in the Life", where we follow various engineers and individuals in STEM, to see what a typical work day looks like for them.
Post-College Perspective on Engineering
In this episode, we discuss and compare our perspectives on engineering, engineering classes, and jobs now versus prior to college.
Recommended
English with Olivia | Slow Conversations & Vocabulary
Bible Tea
TED Talks Daily
Pod Save America
Dateline NBC
صداستان: ساعتی با موسیقی
Becoming: HER with Nikki Spoelstra
Exposing Workplace Bullying
Everyday AI Made Simple - AI For Everyday Tasks
FemTech Focus
Not Too Sensitive - Empowering Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) To Own Their Sensitivity
Mother Daughter Relationship Show
