The world of engineering has long been perceived as a male-dominated field, with certain stereotypes dictating what an engineer should look like.
However, the tides are changing, and a new generation of diverse and inspiring young engineers are breaking down these barriers. In this blog, we will showcase a selection of young engineers from different backgrounds who are shaping the future, challenging the traditional image of engineering, and making a positive impact on the world.
Gitanjali Rao:
At just 15 years old, Gitanjali Rao was named TIME’s first-ever Kid of the Year in 2020 for her extraordinary achievements in science and engineering. Gitanjali invented a device called Tethys, which quickly and accurately detects lead in drinking water. She has also developed an app to combat cyberbullying and a service to help diagnose early-stage opioid addiction. Gitanjali’s ingenuity and dedication to using her engineering skills to solve pressing global issues are truly inspiring.
Kelvin Doe:
Kelvin Doe, also known as DJ Focus, is a self-taught engineer from Sierra Leone who began creating electronic gadgets and radio equipment from discarded materials at just 13 years old. His resourcefulness and determination caught the attention of MIT, where he became the youngest visiting practitioner in the university’s history. Kelvin’s story shows that with passion and perseverance, anyone can become an engineer, regardless of their background or resources.
Brittany Wenger:
Brittany Wenger is a trailblazing computer scientist and engineer who, at the age of 17, developed an artificial intelligence system to detect breast cancer and leukemia with a 99% success rate. Her innovative approach to using machine learning and cloud-based technology has the potential to revolutionise cancer detection and save countless lives. Brittany’s work is a prime example of how engineering can be used for the betterment of society.
Boyan Slat:
Boyan Slat, a Dutch inventor and entrepreneur, founded The Ocean Cleanup at just 18 years old. His innovative engineering solution uses advanced technologies to remove plastic waste from the world’s oceans, helping to address the global issue of marine pollution. Boyan’s commitment to environmental sustainability and his inventive approach to problem-solving demonstrate the powerful impact that young engineers can have on the world.
Sabrina Gonzalez Pasterski:
Sabrina Gonzalez Pasterski is a Cuban-American physicist and engineer who gained recognition at just 14 years old for building her own single-engine airplane. She has since earned a degree from MIT and is currently pursuing a PhD at Harvard, focusing on high-energy physics. Sabrina’s impressive achievements in both engineering and physics challenge the traditional image of an engineer and show that there are no limits to what young people can accomplish.
These inspiring young engineers represent the new face of engineering, breaking stereotypes and proving that passion, innovation, and determination know no bounds. By showcasing their incredible achievements and the positive impact they are making on the world, we hope to encourage more young people from diverse backgrounds to consider a career in engineering. The future of engineering is bright, and it’s in the hands of these trailblazing individuals who are redefining what it means to be an engineer.