International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) is June 23, 2024. INWED provides an important opportunity to raise the profile of women engineers and highlight the amazing career opportunities available. This year’s theme is Enhanced by Engineering, so we are celebrating by learning more about how our women engineers are building a brighter future.
Meet Janhavi Datar
Janhavi Datar joined our Minnesota team six years ago and currently is a Program Consultant. She works on electric and natural gas utilities to help implement energy conservations programs for commercial and industrial customers. “My work drives a positive environmental impact by identifying and implementing process improvements to enable energy savings and reduce carbon emissions. I work with customers daily to help reduce their energy bills and secure rebates from local utilities,” she said. She loves to perform energy saving calculations for projects along with communicating with customers to advise them on smart choices to save money and energy on their facilities.
Janhavi is driven by curiosity. “I always dig into how an equipment can be utilized at its maximum scope and efficiency throughout its product life.” Her curiosity inspired her to become a mechanical engineer. Janhavi said, “The best advice I can give young women that want to become an engineer is to create a solid foundation for math and physics. Also, stay focused and learn from mistakes.”
Meet Kelli Pavelchik
Kelli Pavelchik joined our California team this year and is currently an Engineer. She works on research and compliance codes for energy usage and efficiency. “Assisting to develop and enhance energy codes helps to create a more efficient and sustainable environment for everyone,” she said. She loves to learn, solve problems, and overcome challenges in her work.
Kelli graduated early and was the top of her class from college with her degree in mechanical engineering. “I always loved math and science growing up, so I knew that I wanted to utilize those skills in my future career. I decided on engineering as it has many applications, and what you can do with it is endless,” she said. She supports young women and encourages them to think about a STEM related career. Kelli said, “Never let others discourage you. Now, more than ever, we have the opportunity and access to do anything. It will be challenging nonetheless, but the reward is worthwhile.”
Learn more about INWED: https://www.inwed.org.uk
