In this episode, I talk with Danielle Passaglia, PE, LEED GA, a senior mechanical engineer at SmithGroup, about the transformative power of STEM outreach and practical strategies to close the gender gap in engineering are key to driving architectural engineering success and empowering the next generation.

***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:



Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Danielle:

How did growing up in a family of teachers shape your decision to pursue architectural engineering, and how has your understanding of the field evolved from your early experiences, like your high school drafting course, to your career today?
Can you tell us about your books, Lucy Goes Green and Lucy’s Engineering Adventure, and what inspired you to write them?
What lessons or experiences have you gained from classroom outreach, and what advice would you offer engineers who want to incorporate outreach into their careers, especially with the support of their employers?
What do you find most rewarding about working in architectural engineering, and what challenges have you faced along the way?
How do you balance sustainability and functionality in specialized building design, and why is achieving this balance important?
Can you share any challenges you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame them?
What final piece of advice would you give to engineers, particularly women, who aspire to lead or start their own ventures?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Architectural Engineering Success: Timely Tips That Will Make You Thrive:


Early exposure to high school engineering programs and drafting ignites a passion for architectural engineering. Analytical skills and strong social abilities enable success in STEM, while a foundation in hand drafting and AutoCAD support a multidisciplinary approach to solving real-world challenges.
Lucy’s Engineering Adventure introduces children to how buildings work through simple, visual storytelling. Its success as a top-selling STEM resource highlights the demand for engaging materials and inspires a series on topics such as sustainability and carbon footprints.
Working with children in classrooms provides fresh perspectives and the opportunity to simplify complex ideas. Activities like school presentations, career fairs, and office events strengthen communication skills and build connections with the next generation of engineers.
Seeing designs take physical form is a rewarding aspect of architectural engineering, where teamwork and creativity lead to innovative solutions. Challenges such as external biases and self-doubt are overcome by recognizing individual strengths and collaborating effectively within diverse teams.
Balancing sustainability and functionality in building design requires early collaboration to align goals with innovative and cost-effective solutions. Energy-efficient technologies, government incentives, and creative strategies deliver environmentally responsible buildings that meet performance and budget expectations.
Overcoming challenges such as external biases and imposter syndrome involves setting clear goals, tracking achievements, and identifying areas for growth. Constructive feedback builds confidence and drives continuous improvement in professional development.
Identifying personal strengths and contributions is essential for building confidence and achieving professional growth. Measurable goals, progress tracking, and collaborative environments create opportunities for leadership and career advancement.

More Details in This Episode…
About Danielle Passaglia, PE, LEED GA
Danielle Passaglia, PE, LEED Green Associate, is a licensed senior mechanical engineer and project m...