STEM Field of Dreams

In this episode Araceli Hernández Granados, an industrial engineer and doctor of engineering and applied science, shares her journey from studying engineering in Mexico to her current position as a senior engineer at TG Recycling. Acarceli works on recovering metals from electronic waste through circular chemistry. She discusses the challenges she faced in her career, the importance of resilience and self-belief, and her perspective on balancing work and motherhood. Araceli also offers advice for those interested in pursuing a career in engineering and sustainability, highlighting the importance of finding your passion and not comparing yourself to others.

In this episode with Patrick Grubbs, we dive into the fascinating world of a closed ecological life support system. Patricks shares his journey from a career in online publishing and search engine optimization to his passion for closed ecological systems. He discusses how his background in ecology, biology, and physics has come together to explore terrariums and ecosystems capable of sustaining human life in space and other planets. Patrick’s career transition serves as a testament to the importance of pursuing one’s passion and making opportunities where they don’t yet exist. Hear how Patrick co-founded The Spring Institute for Forests on the Moon. Learn about the challenges of managing long-term projects and maintaining knowledge continuity within a team, particularly in the context of space research. Patrick offers valuable insights into how to tackle these issues effectively, emphasizing the importance of thorough documentation and onboarding processes.

In this episode Tyler Krage, a seasoned traffic signals engineer, shares a wealth of experience in managing traffic systems across various cities. Tyler discusses his journey from working in Chicago to his current role in Dakota County, Minneapolis-St. Paul. He delves into the intricacies of signal timing and optimization, highlighting the challenges and rewards of his profession. Tyler also discusses the evolving landscape of transportation engineering, emphasizing the importance of incorporating big data and prioritizing inclusivity in infrastructure design. From managing diverse teams to navigating communication barriers, Tyler offers valuable insights and advice for both aspiring and seasoned professionals in the field.