She Strengthens

Embracing Uncharted Territory: A Woman’s Journey in Engineering

As I reflect on my high school days, a mix of memories floods my mind. While some are better left forgotten, others remain dear to my heart, like the countless hours spent listening to Vitamin C’s iconic song “Graduation” and envisioning my future.

For many, choosing a career path is a daunting task. I, too, navigated through multiple majors in college before finding my calling. However, there are individuals like Adrienne Williamson who knew their passion from the start. During her senior year of high school, Adrienne discovered her affinity for working with computers, which led her to explore engineering as a potential career.

Pursuing a Dream

Adrienne’s curiosity about engineering grew as she sought advice from friends already in the field. “When I started looking for colleges, I talked to some friends who were in engineering school, and it sounded like something that might be a good fit,” she recalls. This intuition proved correct, as Adrienne is now a successful Validation Engineer at General Motors (GM) at just 25 years old.

Breaking Down Barriers

In a male-dominated industry like engineering, Adrienne’s experience is a beacon of inspiration. When asked about working in a field where women are underrepresented, she shared her thoughts on navigating this environment.

Confidence is Key

Adrienne’s unwavering confidence has been instrumental in her success. “I was never intimidated by being the minority gender in the office,” she emphasizes. “It never even crossed my mind until I went off to college and found out that women were a minority in the field.” Fortunately, her colleagues have always treated her with respect and fairness.

Authenticity Matters

Adrienne believes in being true to oneself, even in a male-dominated environment. “Everyone wants to fit in, but you can still fit in without compromising who you are to be one of the guys.” By embracing her individuality, she has found a sense of belonging at GM.

Doing What You Love

Adrienne’s passion for her work is evident in the projects she’s undertaken, including the innovative Volt. “It was really cool when I got to volunteer for ride and drives and teach consumers and even other GM employees about the Volt, how it functions, and what it has to offer.” Her expertise has earned her recognition, with colleagues seeking her advice on various matters.

Embracing Opportunities

Adrienne’s journey serves as a reminder to pursue careers that bring us joy, despite any perceived obstacles. “Don’t turn down a career you’re interested in out of fear. Think of it as an opportunity to better yourself.” By following her heart, Adrienne has crafted a fulfilling career that aligns with her passions.