The Next Generation of Engineers: How I Found My Path

My name is Dasia Jackson, and I am a senior pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering with a concentration in Computer Engineering at Lawrence Technological University (LTU). Today, as I prepare to graduate and take the next step in my journey, I look back on the experiences that shaped my path, from high school to college, and the people who have supported me along the way.

How the High School Years Helped Me Find My Path

Inspiration for My Next Steps

What first sparked my interest in engineering was my natural curiosity for problem-solving and technology. I loved taking things apart to see how they worked and figuring out how to put them back together. But it wasn’t until I watched the movie Hidden Figures that I truly saw the power of engineering, particularly in the contributions of women in STEM.

The story of Mary Jackson, the first Black female engineer at NASA, struck a deep chord with me. Her determination and groundbreaking achievements, despite the challenges she faced, motivated me to pursue engineering with the same passion. It made me realize that engineering wasn’t just about solving technical problems — it was about breaking barriers and creating a lasting impact on the world.

Opportunities That Prepared Me

There are two opportunities that played a major role in my discovery of engineering.

1. Mechatronics program at Advanced Technology Academy - This program exposed me to a wide range of disciplines and was the perfect blend of hands-on learning and technical knowledge, which helped me develop a deeper understanding of how different engineering fields overlap and work together to create functional systems.

2. Conceptual Physics Course - This course allowed me to explore the fundamental principles of physics in a way that was both theoretical and practical. It helped me grasp core concepts such as energy transfer, forces, and the behavior of materials, and challenged me to apply abstract concepts to solve real-world problems, giving me the confidence to dive deeper into engineering.

Mentors Along the Way

The support I received from mentors, teachers, and peers played a huge role in encouraging me to pursue this field. One of the most influential mentors was my Mechatronics teacher, Mrs. Ferguson, who shaped my path from 10th to 12th grade. Her unwavering support and encouragement pushed me to believe in my abilities and explore engineering with confidence. She taught me technical skills, fostered resilience and problem-solving, emphasized perseverance, and encouraged me to participate in competitions, internships, and projects.

My College Years

Internships That Shaped My Career Path

Internships have been pivotal in shaping my engineering journey, providing me with hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the diverse applications of Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering.

At American Axle, I was able to gain hands-on experience in the automotive industry, working on the design and development of critical vehicle components.
At Molex, I was able to dive into electrical components and connectivity solutions, which further expanded my technical skill set.
At TE Connectivity I’ve worked on various engineering projects that allowed me to integrate my skills in electrical engineering, systems design, and data analysis to help improve product performance and drive innovation.

These internships have given me a strong understanding of mechanical systems and the importance of precision and reliability in engineering design, the importance of electrical systems in modern technology, and gaining valuable experience working in a fast-paced environment, collaborating with engineers. They’ve given me a clearer sense of where I want to focus my efforts and how I can use my skills to contribute to innovative technologies in the future.

Choosing My Specific Pathway

My decision to pursue Electrical Engineering with a focus on Computer Engineering was influenced by my passion for technology and problem-solving, as well as my experiences in high school and college. Initially, it stemmed from my fascination with how things worked, then the Mechatronics program gave me a solid foundation in multiple engineering disciplines, from robotics to electronics. It allowed me to see firsthand how mechanical, electrical, and computer systems work together. This exposure to a variety of technologies made me realize how much I enjoyed working with electrical components and programming, which led me to explore Electrical Engineering.

Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to explore different subjects. The more you explore, the clearer your passions will become.

Future Plans

So, What’s Next on My Journey?

My goal is to change the world by applying my skills in Electrical and Computer Engineering, focusing on Aerospace Engineering. I'm excited about satellite technology, communication systems, and energy-efficient propulsion. By combining electrical systems with aerospace concepts, I aim to advance space exploration, air travel, and sustainable technologies. I hope to work on projects that push technological boundaries, improve aviation systems, and enable space travel, ultimately driving innovation and shaping the future of earthbound and space technologies.

Shaping the Future of the World

Engineering plays a critical role in addressing global challenges like carbon emissions and climate change. Engineers can design sustainable technologies to reduce our environmental footprint through renewable energy, energy-efficient systems, and carbon capture. As we innovate, engineers will create smarter, sustainable cities, improve transportation, and develop technologies for environmental conservation. By advancing green technologies, engineering can lead us toward a cleaner, more sustainable future, preserving the planet for future generations.

My Advice for High School Students

For high school students discovering their passions, my advice is to start early and invest in yourself. Visit colleges and talk to professors to understand the academic environment and what excites you. Take advantage of dual enrollment to experience college-level courses and get a head start. Seek internships or volunteer opportunities to gain hands-on experience and clarify your interests.

If you're considering a career in engineering, my advice would be to stay curious and embrace challenges. Engineering is all about problem-solving and innovation, so don't be afraid to ask questions, seek help when needed, and tackle complex problems head-on. Focus on building a strong foundation in math and science, as these are the core skills that will support your engineering journey.

My other advice:

Start exploring scholarships and other funding options early to ease the financial burden.
Travel and see the world, whether through school trips, study abroad programs, or personal travel. Experiencing different cultures and environments broadens your perspective and helps you appreciate diverse viewpoints.
Seek mentorship from teachers, professionals, or anyone who inspires you. A mentor can provide guidance, support, and insight that can shape your future decisions.

Resources and Opportunities I’d Recommend

There are several valuable resources and organizations for high school students exploring engineering, and many of them provide mentorship, hands-on projects, and networking opportunities.

Here are a few that I highly recommend:

NSBE Jr. (National Society of Black Engineers Jr.)
First Robotics
ACE (Architecture, Construction, and Engineering) Mentoring Program
Science Olympiad
SWE (Society of Women Engineers)
IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)
Project Lead The Way (PLTW)
Junior Engineering Technical Society (JETS)

Hear from Arriea Bonds, a first-generation college student pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering.