Are you interested in a potential career path in the field of mechanical engineering? Do you want to learn about being an aerospace engineer and working in the field? Are you curious what resources and activities are out there for future engineers? Read this interview with Jocelyn Mendoza!
Jocelyn Mendoza is the third child of a first-generation Mexican American family to attend college. Mendoza grew up in Lincoln Heights, a small part of the East Los Angeles area. She graduated from Cal State Los Angeles in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering. Her vibrant personality and unique perspective create a vivid picture of this exciting career path for young students interested in entering the field.
Through her own words, Mendoza provides readers with an encouraging outlook and shares her experience and tips for students to succeed when following this career path.
This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.
Interview by Lola Ravid
When did you decide to become an engineer? How old were you?
In high school, I remember I wasn’t doing well. My older brother took me to his college, Cal Poly Pomona, where I met his friends. They helped me with math because it was a subject I struggled with. How ironic, right? I could see their projects and what they were working with, which got me engaged. I was in 10th-11th grade.
What skills do you need to become a mechanical engineer?
You need to focus on math skills, science, and English. You will write a lot. It’s not only about numbers; it’s about processes. When you get out into the field, you will need to type memos and emails, so being able to communicate with others is essential. However, I would say the focus should be on English, math, and science.
Are there a lot of programs in Los Angeles? Is it competitive to get into a mechanical engineering program?
Many universities in Los Angeles and Southern California offer the program. I have to say that it doesn’t matter from where you get the degree— what matters is that you get the degree. You can start in one college and transfer to another; as long as you have a good GPA, a good network, and a mentor, you will succeed.
What was fun and challenging about the college experience?
The fun part was working with people and projects. I still network with them. The challenge was taking a lot of difficult classes. It caused setbacks and lowered my motivation a little, but I think you need challenges in life to push yourself.
How do engineers keep up with continuous learning?
Engineers can go to a graduate program to complete their master’s degree. They can complete certifications, too. In my experience as a new graduate, I began as an intern, then started an associated job. After that, I enrolled at Cal Tech for a project management course, which helped me land my current job. So certifications can help a lot.
Where do you work now? What type of work does your company do?
I currently work for Northrop Grumman. I am in the aeronautical sector, the science of rockets and aircraft. I hold the title of project manager.
In what other areas can you find mechanical engineers?
Mechanical engineering is a vast major. You can find engineers working in the aeronautics sectors, like me, in the medical or biomedical fields, and even working on roller coaster rides for Disney. You can find engineering in other aspects as well, not only in STEM areas.
What do you enjoy the most about your job?
I have been working at Northrop for almost five years. I enjoy working on the floor, like in the factory, and working with people, equipment, and machinery. I enjoy observing how one little thing starts very small and then becomes a large component. For example, I work on the F35 Jet and see the middle part. This part is called the fuselage of the aircraft. I can’t get too close to it, but I get to see and work on that component. It makes me proud to work on such a project.
What type of activities would encourage thinking like an engineer?
Students should engage not only in math, but in activities like the science bowl. The Jet Propulsion Laboratories (JPL), a research institute owned by NASA in Pasadena, California, is another great activity. JPL, which has built Mars Rovers, has annual open houses, free public tours, and virtual tours. You can also visit the science center or places like the Griffith Observatory. Any activities from other majors that relate to engineering are great.
What was your favorite activity stimulating the scientific mindset when you were young?
When I was a kid, my father drove us to the observatory and we sometimes walked up to see the telescope. My siblings and I would go up and make a line just to look at the planets. It was free, after all. I still remember looking at Saturn; I think that’s why I love Saturn so much—the rings. This experience stimulated the scientific mindset in me.
Any great resources that can encourage curiosity in this career path?
I would encourage you to visit the library and look at science books. Back in the 90s, when I was a kid, there were shows called Bill Nye the Science Guy and The Magic School Bus. The local library and internet are resources that will enhance your learning. Northrop, for example, has this famous telescope called the James Webb telescope, and they put together packages for kids with coloring books, puzzles, and activities about the telescope.
Any final advice for students interested in the field?
I would say the road is not easy in any field. Colleges have a lot of resources. Your family is going to be your backbone as well. I went through many roadblocks along the way, like so many others, but I persisted. If you need help, ask for help. Use your resources like the internet and libraries to do your research. You can also use LinkedIn, where you can easily reach out to someone in the field for advice. Stay persistent. It will surprise you what you can do.
What is in store for you in the near future as an engineer?
One of my goals was to get a master’s degree. I am currently completing my master’s degree in business administration (MBA). I am looking to work more in depth with technical work. I currently manage engineers, but want to return to the technical field. Hopefully, one day, I’ll become a director.
Editorial Note:
If you enjoyed this interview, we encourage you to check out some of the cool resources and activities on the NASA STEM Engagement page.
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