Women’s History Month: Women in STEM at Trillium Engineering
March is not just any month—it's Women's History Month, a time to celebrate the remarkable achievements and contributions of women throughout history. While progress has been made over the years, women continue to be underrepresented in STEM fields. According to recent statistics, women make up only around 28% of the workforce in science and engineering occupations in the United States.
At Trillium Engineering, we are proud to highlight the incredible women who play pivotal roles in our company's success and contribute significantly to the field of STEM. Join us as we shine a spotlight on these trailblazers and explore the importance of Women's History Month in recognizing their invaluable impact.
Honoring Our Leading Ladies at Trillium Engineering
Trillium Engineering is fortunate to have a talented and diverse team that includes outstanding women making significant strides in STEM. Here are some of these remarkable individuals and their roles in driving innovation and excellence within our company:
Jhoan Perras
Tell us about your role at Trillium.
I'm the new Project Manager for Trillium. Basically, I help our awesome engineers and AI whiz kids work together on projects to make our Trillium gimbals even more incredible!
How did you become interested in gimbals (or UAS)?
Well, gimbals themselves are pretty cool tech, keeping cameras super stable for amazing shots. But what really hooked me was the AI side of things. It's about using smarts to make these machines even better!
Why is it important to have women in STEM fields?
Having women in STEM is like having a whole new perspective in the room! We bring different ideas, and approaches, and maybe even catch some blind spots. It's all about making the best tech possible, and that means having everyone on board!
What advice would you give to young women pursuing careers in STEM?
For all the young women out there: STEM is amazing! Don't be discouraged if it seems tough. Embrace the challenge, ask questions, and find something that sparks your curiosity. Your unique perspective is your strength, so bring it to the table with confidence!
Jackie Wolcott
Tell us about your role at Trillium.
I am the Accounts Payable Coordinator.
How did you become interested in gimbals (or UAS)?
I became intrigued by the UAV industry once it became such a heavy presence in the Pacific Northwest. There are so many facets to it in terms of what goes into a single system; fabrication, GPS, camera, software, etc. that it is hard not to become fascinated with how all of these things come together and what they can do.
Why is it important to have women in STEM fields?
It is important to have women in STEM fields because it provides those fields with a diversity in background, knowledge, skills, ways of processing information, problem-solving, and outcomes.
What advice would you give to young women pursuing careers in STEM?
Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t do something that you truly set your mind on. Take that negativity and use it to fuel your drive, passion, and perseverance as you work toward your goals.
Catrina Quantrell
Tell us about your role at Trillium.
I am the Master Scheduler at Trillium Engineering and have been in my current role for three years.
How did you become interested in gimbals (or UAS)?
I was blessed to have a mother who worked in the high-tech industry in Silicon Valley. I spent many long nights with her in the office charging engineers to come into her office to speak with her! We later moved to the Columbia Gorge area and after graduating from college the area no longer was known for windsurfing but for the UAS industry and I just kind of jumped in feet first.
Why is it important to have women in STEM fields?
Women have a different perspective, and attack problems differently – provides a different level of perspective and opens the door to different kinds of solutions. Women generally put more emphasis on people versus the objective which allows a much larger discussion to take place when making decisions.
What advice would you give to young women pursuing careers in STEM?
Be perseverant, Be yourself. Know that your voice matters and you will not be alone. I have been blessed with amazing mentors in this industry both male and female and there are people out there that are willing and ready to step up and support you in your role and your growth. It is worth it!
Jennifer Kennedy
Tell us about your role at Trillium.
Production Manager at Trillium
How did you become interested in gimbals (or UAS)?
Started small at a local cable and wire harness company. I jumped on any opportunity to learn more about the end use of our product eventually got me to where I am today.
Why is it important to have women in STEM fields?
Woman in STEM is a MUST! They play a vital role in ensuring that the needs of all in society are represented. In addition, diverse perspectives provide unique insight that ultimately leads to improved research outcomes.
What advice would you give to young women pursuing careers in STEM?
Gender equality in STEM is a necessity and possible! Take the opportunities, ask the questions, and don’t be afraid to bring the perspective that we need in the industry. We’re here to support you.
This Women’s History Month, let's celebrate the remarkable contributions of women in STEM and continue working towards a more inclusive and diverse future. Trillium Engineering is committed to supporting initiatives that encourage women to explore STEM disciplines, break barriers, and reach their full potential. We are proud to stand alongside inspiring women as we drive innovation, foster creativity, and shape the future of engineering and technology.
Happy Women's History Month from all of us at Trillium Engineering!