My generation was the first in the family to attend college. I wasn’t sure what engineers did, just that they needed math and science skills, and that there were a lot of opportunities. I had math and science abilities, but it took a while to find a subject that I really liked. The more I learned about light, the more it amazed me. My senior elective courses were optics-related, and I told a recruiter that I wanted to work in that area. He told me that those positions needed an advanced degree, not to “limit yourself so much.” I decided two things: 1) I would go to graduate school, and 2) he didn’t know what he was talking about if he thought optics was limited!
As an application engineer, I help customers apply our optical-software products to design lens and illumination systems. I teach these engineers how to use the software and help them resolve any issues. I’ve worked with CODE V customers as they design systems ranging from cell phone cameras to the James Webb Space Telescope. Our customers design leading-edge systems, so they have challenging questions and require precise answers. Technology keeps evolving, so there are always new problems to solve.
My biggest challenge and greatest accomplishment in my career are the same: getting my PhD in optics. In the middle of my program, I had health issues which interrupted my studies. With the support of my advisor, family, and friends, I was able to persevere and complete my degree.
When I was starting out, I wish I’d been advised to find a mentor. There’s always a lot to learn about your job, but another perspective can help you prioritize and see the bigger picture.
I’d advise others considering a STEM career to explore various opportunities: choose a field that you enjoy. There will be subjects and problems that are difficult; learn when to persevere, and when to ask for help. Become comfortable asking questions, even when you feel that you should know the answer. Ask the question so that you do know the answer.
More women are working in science and engineering now, but these are still male-dominated fields. A lot of engineers are more introverted than extroverted, and women’s voices are generally quieter than men’s. Get comfortable speaking up: your thoughts and contributions are important and needed.
Mary Kate Crawford
Staff Application Engineer, Synopsys
Born in United States / Resides in United States
Educational Background: BS in Electrical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University; MS in Electro-Optics, University of Dayton; PhD in Optics, University of Rochester, United States