The Purdue University North Central Women in Engineering and Technology organization recently awarded scholarships to Michelle Figueroa, of Portage, and to Haley Solar, of Porter, students in the PNC College of Engineering and Technology. Both expect to graduate in May, 2015.
Figueroa, a Mechanical Engineering major, believes that through engineering "advancements that can better the lives of everyday people and those of generations to come."
As a student she found, "As I learned more about engineers and the way they mold the entire world around us, I knew it was going to be my way of helping."
She volunteers with Nativity of Our Savior Parish in Portage and previously worked at the New Innsbrook Country Club in Merrillville. She recently served an internship with Chicago Faucets in Michigan City, aiding with in production improvement and assembly/packaging requirements.
Solar is majoring in Construction Engineering and Management Technology. When she graduates, she will be the first person in her family to earn a college degree. She was a member of the PNC Construction Club and took part in the National Association of Home Builder's Residential Construction Management Competition. "It was a great learning experience that I will never forget," she said.
She served an internship with Walsh Construction. "I am grateful to have this opportunity to gain on-the-job experience that is unlike anything that can be taught in a classroom," said Solar. "This internship helped lead me to the conclusion that I would like to become a construction manager after I graduate."
The Women in Engineering and Technology program was started on the Purdue North Central campus during the 2002 spring semester. The program is designed to enrich the professions of engineering and technology through the full participation of women from all backgrounds. The program's main objective is the retention of female students in engineering and technology programs, offering a variety of activities and vehicles in which students can feel supported and encouraged.
For more information about Women in Engineering and Technology, contact Martha Garcia-Saenz at 785-5200 ext. 5522, or at mgarcia@pnc.edu.