This week’s Wednesday’s Women in STEM series features Emily Torrealba. Read on to see how Emily uses her degree in engineering to help modernize public housing in NYC. She also shares how she competed in pageants during college, combining her love of STEM and her femininity.
When did you first become interested in STEM?
When I was eight years old, I loved creating things. I built dollhouses and sewed dresses for myself and my stuffed animals. My mom encouraged me to consider engineering with a focus on design. It was a natural fit!
Where did you go to school and what did you study?
I studied at Arkansas Tech University and got a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Fun fact: I was one of only two women in the 2019 graduating class of all engineering majors. While in school I started a Women in STEM organization to provide resources for other students. We hosted guest speakers, organized study groups, and traveled abroad to Japan for two summers!
What is your current career and how do you use your interests in STEM on a day-to-day basis?
I work in engineering project management for the New York City Housing Authority. Our focus is to modernize public housing in NYC. I love my job. I get to be part of improving the standard of living for so many individuals and that is truly rewarding. I have always wanted to be in an industry that focused on improving the community. On a daily basis I use my knowledge of building and machine systems when coordinating projects with contractors.
What do you like most about your current job? What do you find most challenging?
I love working each day to modernize public housing. It’s a task that has a real impact on the lives of the residents living in the buildings. The most challenging part is how big the job can seem at times. This is when it’s important to remember that each phase of every project is important and will make a difference. I try to focus on things one step at a time and love looking back at the results when a project is completed.
What advice would you give to young girls who are interested in pursuing STEM activities or careers?
“Hold Your Head High” I experienced so many moments of self doubt while I was in school and beginning my career. It’s a challenge to pursue a career in STEM let alone do it while being different from everyone else around you. Remember that your dreams belong to you and you have every right to pursue them. During my time in school, I received criticism from male students at times. One thing I realized was that their comments were coming from a feeling of insecurity on their end. Once I realized this, I stopped taking their criticism to heart and worked to create a great future for myself!
Anything else our girls would be interested in knowing about you?
Throughout college and even now, I have competed in both the Miss America and Miss USA pageant systems. It has been a fun way to keep a balance in my life. I have often been the only woman on a team or in an academic class. Pageants have been an exciting way to express myself and embrace my femininity.