Women in Engineering Profile: Sarah Straub
This new profile series introduces leading materials scientists from around the world who happen to be females. Here we speak with Sarah Straub, materials contact engineer for ExxonMobil Chemical.
What does your typical workday look like?
As a materials engineer at one of the largest manufacturing complexes in the world, every day is busy. I provide materials support for refining and chemicals processing, which includes failure analysis, materials selection, and risk assessments. I also have the opportunity to participate in site and global initiatives to improve safety and reliability.
What part of your job do you like most?
Every day I am fulfilled in my work by knowing that I have a direct influence on the safety and reliability of my site. Having the opportunity to work with passionate and smart people who are working toward the same goals is inspiring.
What is your engineering background?
I have a Bachelor of Science in materials engineering and a minor in management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. My concentration was in electrochemistry and corrosion, which applies directly to my current job.
What attracted you to engineering?
Although I had always been a problem solver, I thought engineering was boring when I was young. It wasn’t until I was in high school that I even considered pursuing a STEM education. My father, who is a civil engineer, offered to bring me to an engineering outreach program for female high school students. Following a day of presentations, design challenges, and career discussions, I knew engineering would be a good fit. Fortunately, there were some metallurgists that attended this event so I was aware of the discipline early on. Attending my first materials class was like “love at first sight.”
If a young person approached you for career advice about pursuing engineering, what would you tell them?
Engineers are problem solvers, communicators, and collaborators. Anyone with these characteristics has the potential to be a great engineer!
Hobbies?
Traveling, playing tennis, and watching hockey.
Last book read?
“The Fire Starter Sessions” by Danielle LaPorte
Would you like to be featured in an upcoming Women in Engineering profile? Contact Vicki Burt at [email protected].
