Anna Nguyen is an engineer in training, specializing in environmental engineering. She joined Tetra Tech in 2017 and believes her work at Tetra Tech has provided her great opportunities to collaborate with experts in her field. She received her Bachelors in Environmental Engineering from Michigan State University. We spoke with Anna as part of our #INWED19 campaign to not only celebrate our brilliant women engineers but also to raise their profiles and encourage those who aspire to become engineers and work in STEM. Follow #WomenInStem on social media for more stories.

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What do you like about working at Tetra Tech?

Tetra Tech is a company with extensive opportunities and field types. One highlight is that although Tetra Tech is a large company, my office feels like a small business, which allows the staff to have personal relationships with one another. I’ve met many talented and genuine people here and feel so lucky to be able to work alongside my coworkers.

The company also encourages younger employees to expand their skillset and provides opportunities for younger staff to reach out to our internal experts for advice and guidance.

Tetra Tech works on so many unique projects that are available to those who are interested. It’s a great opportunity to expose staff to a variety of different fields and work types.

What is the greatest advice you could pass onto female students who aspire to have a career in engineering?

If you find yourself questioning something in your career or not finding the right opportunities, don’t be afraid to ask for them. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or speak up—and be proud of your abilities!

What are the greatest qualities you may find in a female engineer?

I believe the greatest qualities are tenacity, inquisitiveness, and confidence.

What would you like to see engineering firms do differently or improve on in the future?

I would like to see firms continue to invest in and promote young female engineers. I believe there is a positive change happening toward female engineers in many firms, but it is important to keep the momentum going and to teach all employees the importance of equality and respect toward one another. Firms should continue improving equal opportunity for staff and exercise transparency.

How can engineering firms be more inclusive and inviting to female engineers?

Support female leaders within the company. Experienced women in managerial positions will encourage younger female engineers to stay and grow within the company.

I also suggest developing an objective performance metric base to avoid an unconscious bias when evaluating employees.

Offer flexible work hours to promote a healthy, family-friendly work environment for employees with children.