Candid reflections and real-world perspective defined the Women in Engineering event at UC Santa Barbara, where students gained a clear sense of what it takes to succeed and the confidence to see themselves doing it. Co-hosted by two student organizations, Women in Computer Science (WiCS) and the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), the event brought together students and an all-women panel of industry professionals whose experiences offered a grounded, honest view of engineering careers.  

Now in its second year, the event opened with a panel discussion featuring six professionals representing fields from semiconductors and aerospace to healthcare and sustainable materials. Through personal stories and an engaging Q&A session, panelists spoke about the challenges they faced, the uncertainty they navigated, and the skills they developed along the way. Their experiences provided students with a clearer understanding of how confidence is built, not before entering the field, but through it. 

Among the speakers, Cecelia Gant and Victoria Christensen, both UCSB alumnae, offered complementary perspectives on their journeys from students to professionals. Gant, ASIC digital layout engineer at Teledyne FLIR, emphasized the importance of persistence in moments of uncertainty. “There were times I felt in over my head,” she shared, “but learning how to work through problems that seem impossible is exactly what prepares you for industry.” In professional settings, she noted, engineers are often tasked with challenges without clear solutions, making determination and adaptability essential.

Christensen, principal materials and process engineer at Northrop Grumman, spoke about the importance of communication. “I used to worry about saying the wrong thing,” she said, “but asking questions is actually a strength. That shift in mindset helped me transition into industry, where collaboration and the ability to speak up are just as critical as technical expertise.” 

For students in attendance, hearing these experiences offered a more tangible sense of what lies ahead. “It’s crucial to openly address the challenges women face in engineering while also highlighting the way to success,” said Avleen Gill, a third-year computer science student, and WiCS board member. Reflecting on the panel discussion, she emphasized confidence as her biggest takeaway: “You don’t have to be 110% certain to speak up. Your voice holds just as much value as anyone else’s.”

This message resonated with Sandy Xu, a first-year physics major at UCSB, who asked the panelists about navigating moments of self-doubt and failure. As she considers shifting from theoretical physics to a more applied, engineering-focused track, Xu found reassurance in their honesty. “None of them were perfect, they all struggled and questioned their path,” she said. “But they made it through, and it made me feel like I can too. Struggling isn’t failing — it’s part of the process.” 

Backed by long-standing partnerships through UCSB’s Corporate Affiliates Program, the event reflects a broader effort to connect students with industry and real-world pathways. “The program is designed to benefit both sides — giving companies access to emerging talent while providing students with direct pathways to internships, mentorship, and career opportunities,” noted Alaina McGrath, associate director of corporate partnerships at UCSB.

The evening concluded with a networking session, giving students the opportunity to continue conversations and gain practical insight into life after graduation. For many, the event reinforced that confidence is not a prerequisite for success, but something developed through experience, persistence, and a willingness to engage.