Ines Roman

Interview with Ines Roman

Describe the path you took to end up where you are now.

My interest in STEAM comes directly from my parents. Both of them are engineers and have worked in science related fields for as long as I can remember. Whenever there was work to be done around the house, I was my dad’s helper--whether it was nailing, sanding, soldering, anything--I loved it.

In high school I was involved in a few technology clubs (robotics, TSA) and competed in regional, state, and national conferences. It was through those experiences that I recognized my talent for technology and troubleshooting, which is why when it was time to choose a college, I focused solely on engineering and tech schools.

Rensselaer was an easy choice, as it’s the oldest technology school in the country and had several engineering disciplines for me to pick from. I still consider this my most important and best choice I ever made. It was this school that helped me build a career (through projects and internships) as well as lifelong friendships. I graduated within five years with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and a master's degree in systems engineering.

What do you consider your biggest accomplishments up until now, both in your job and in your life?

I’m most proud of my career path. I have always wanted to work in technology and have an impact in products that make a difference in our world. I feel that with every step, I get a little closer to that goal.

Did you have a role model or mentor when you were in high school/college? How did he/she help you reach your goals?

I’ve picked up mentors mostly throughout my professional career. They’ve all had drastically different backgrounds and have been a mix of male and female. The goals were mine to achieve, but they’ve all helped me be prepared emotionally, strategically, and mentally for challenges ahead.

What are your other interests and hobbies besides your field of study?

I have a 1.5 year old Australian Shepherd dog, so any time I’m not working, we’re running, jumping, or playing with him. If I do have some time to myself, I love trying my hand (sometimes completely failing) at patisserie and baking.

Describe any challenges you had on your journey to where you are now. How did you overcome those challenges, and what influence did they have on you?

An extremely common challenge for women in STEAM is that we feel we have something to prove--that if we don’t excel, we’re failing “the cause." I’ve fallen for that narrative, and it’s completely internal and something that we all experience. I would tell anyone that suffers from this that they need to focus on building a support system--whether it's family, friends, or professional help. You may not overcome it, but you’ll learn to manage it.

Also!! You do not have to be top of your class to deserve to be in that classroom. A mediocre man would never feel like they shouldn’t be studying their subject because they’re not in the top 10%.

Have you ever faced discrimination, peer pressure, or gender bias as a woman interested in STEAM?

Of course. It’s not always obvious, or malicious, but yes, it does happen.

What advice do you have for high school age girls who want to go into your field of study (or STEAM in general)? What skills were most beneficial to you on your path, and what do you wish you had known starting out?

You should have a strong math and science foundation. You don’t have to like it, but you will have to use it. Also, shop around for what is most interesting to you. I always knew I wanted to go into engineering because I loved puzzles and problem solving, but I didn’t know which engineering field would be the best fit for me. You never know, there might be a field that perfectly combines all of your interests.

Why do you think it is important for women in STEAM to support each other? How can young women support and influence their peers?

We’re all going to have the same struggles, so why not share them and work on solutions together?

How do you view art and creativity as a part of STEAM?

I do believe that it’s essential for people in STEM to have some sort of art or creative outlet. Without it, we are robotic, and out of touch with the world we live in. You don’t have to be an artist, but you do have to respect and value artistic expression.