Women of the UA Tech Park

Throughout the month of March, the world reflects on women who furthered women’s rights, equality and representation. But, how do we celebrate the women who aren’t in the spotlight? At Tech Parks Arizona we celebrate the women who usually don’t get the acknowledgment they deserve like the woman sitting next to you, the one who signs your paycheck, and most importantly, the one reading these words right now - You! The mighty women of the UA Tech Park 2024 will be showcased nearly every day. Read their inspiring stories about beating the odds and how they pave the way for future generations. Take time to appreciate personal accomplishments and reflect on how we individually overcome obstacles. So, in our celebration of Women’s History Month, we’d like to remind you why today—and every day forward—isn’t just for the big names out there. It’s for all of us. Celebrate your greatness. Remember you can do anything!

Join the conversation and empower these women by engaging on the Tech Parks Arizona social media pages: 
LinkedIn | X (Formerly Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram

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Angelique Budaya

Program Director, IBM

I am a woman of tenacity.

I’ve been thoroughly inspired by my fellow Women of the UA Tech Park throughout this month. As Women's History Month draws to a close, I’m making a promise to continue celebrating the achievements of women everywhere, never forget the strength my struggles taught me, and to unapologetically embrace every aspect of who I am.

As I sit here, reflecting on my journey, I can't help but feel a sense of pride. Despite any challenges that arose, I have made it. I’ve carved out a place for myself in a field that had once seemed impenetrable. As I look toward the future, I know that I have a responsibility to pave the way for others like me, to break down barriers and challenge the status quo. Everyone should have the chance to be true to themselves and be accepted for that. Our hold on our identity inspires our passions and leads to amazing innovations and breakthroughs that can better our communities, and even the world if we’re allowed to dream big enough.

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Vanessa Sobik

TS7700 Development Manager, IBM

I am a woman of harmony.

Growing up in Tucson, I was surrounded by both technology and music, thanks to my parents' influence. Despite my initial passion for music, my exposure to technology ignited a curiosity within me. Eventually, I made the bold decision to transition from music to Computer Science at the University of Arizona, believing that my love for both fields could intertwine. As I reflect during Women's Month, I stand as a testament to the strength and resilience of women who dare to break barriers and pursue their dreams unapologetically. Despite the challenges I faced, I persevered, and my journey has led me to become a successful manager in the tech industry.

As a mother of two, I see so much value in exposing my children to STEM education early on the way my parents did for me. Providing them outlets to experiment, explore and create is helping them grow and tackle challenges while they are still in a learning space. Reflecting on my experiences, I'm reminded that everyone has the power to shape their own destinies and that my unique blend of interests has propelled me to where I am today—a true embodiment of the harmony between music and technology.

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Nichole Adams

Service Sr. Supervisor, Citi

I am a woman of inspiration.

Growing up as an Air Force dependent, I was surrounded and influenced by technology and mathematics at a young age. I was raised by a single mother, who was a rarity in her own right. As a young African American enlisted person, she built her career in the Air Force as an electronics technician working on F-16 avionics systems. My mother taught me to analyze and research circuitry schematics and encouraged me to learn the inner workings of radios and other everyday communication devices. This ignited the spark for my passion in math, particularly accounting and finance.

My mother, with her warm smile and unwavering determination, is my guiding light through the maze of life's complexities. She understands that knowledge is power, and she made it her mission to ensure that I was equipped with the tools necessary to navigate through the challenges that lay ahead. Whether it was discussing politics, dissecting the latest news headlines, or delving into the pages of history books, my mother has always encouraged me to engage with the world with a sharp mind and an open heart.

Today, as I look back on the path I have traveled, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible woman who shaped me into the person I have become. My mother's advice and legacy lives on in every decision I make, in every word I speak, and in every heart I touch. She remains a constant source of strength and inspiration in my life, guiding me forward as I continue to navigate the world with a critical mind and an unwavering resolve.

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Christina Orosco

Director, Spectrum Scale & Elastic Strorage Server Development, IBM

I am a woman of encouragement.

I am a Tucson native through and through. I was born and raised here, attended University High School, and graduated from the University of Arizona with my bachelor's and master’s degrees. I feel extremely fortunate that throughout my education I had amazing teachers, coaches and mentors who made STEM careers feel obtainable rather than distant dreams. In middle school I had several instrumental math teachers who took their personal time outside regular school hours to host daily classes for anyone interested in applied math concepts and accelerated course work. This was genuinely the spark of my education that made school not feel like a chore. I was given a true opportunity to explore the power of STEM in an extremely supportive and nurturing environment.

Today, as a Woman in STEM I appreciate and feel the importance of taking time to really network and share your own journey and experiences to ignite that spark for someone else. Because of this, I believe that it is imperative to be active in mentorship and lead as a role model. I see one of the key challenges for women in STEM is a lack of self-confidence. It is invaluable for women with successful careers in STEM take on mentorship and role model opportunities and make time to share experiences, advice and provide a window of opportunity for women emerging in the field to ask any and all questions. This will help our emerging female leaders feel less ostracized, encourage their confidence, and foster a community and network where we are physically present and available to engage with one another.

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Mindy Gentry

Logistics Supervisor, Raytheon

I am a woman of who is a force to be reckoned with.

Throughout my childhood, I was always told to grab life by the horns and go for what I want. Coming from a single parent household, I learned early on what some of the challenges life will throw at you are, especially as women. I challenged everything I came across. When I went into college, I pursued a drafting and design field, a very male dominated area. I was one of two females in my class. From there, I knew it was going to be tough. I graduated top of my class and kept going. From there, I went to project management, another male dominated field. Again, I was one of two females in my class. But again, I graduated top of my class. I wanted to show that women can do anything a man can. When I entered the workforce in drafting, it was made clear that women were not respected. I faced daily challenges of discrimination. It took months to earn the respect of my coworkers and clients. I’m fortunate to currently work in a company that encourages diversity and supports it. I have met amazing women along the way in my career here who have mentored me and taught me valuable skills. They didn’t have to, but they invested in me, something I will always appreciate. This is the example we need to lead with. We need to help and support each other.

Women are strong. We can do anything we set our minds to. It is our responsibility to remind each other of that every chance we get.

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Sarah Seaman

Laboratory Supervisor, Eurofins CellTx

I am a woman of admiration.

If there's one person who has shaped my life more than anyone else, it's my mother. She's the epitome of strength, a woman who defies all odds with unwavering determination.

Growing up, we moved around a lot; Mom and Dad worked tirelessly to provide for us. Dad was the backbone of our family, working long hours as an engineer. But Mom was the glue holding us all together with her boundless love. When my parents decided to start a family, Mom set a dream aside but as we grew older, she felt the pull to pursue it once again.

I watched in awe as Mom embarked on her journey to achieve a long-harbored dream – to become a nurse. She was my superhero, balancing the demands of motherhood with the rigors of nursing school. She woke up before the sun rose, studying late into the night after we had all gone to bed, never giving up despite the challenges that arose. Through the demands of school, Mom still found time to always be there for us, cheering at cross country races and track meets, helping with homework, and picking us up when we were down.

Years passed and Mom graduated from nursing school. Freshly out of school, she started in the odd shifts that were readily available for new graduates and often worked late into the night. My dad would come home from work, make dinner, help with homework, and help get us ready for bed. Their support of each other and teamwork through difficult times helped show me what a loving and supportive relationship looked like. It also shows me that hard work wasn’t the only thing that helped you reach your dreams. It was hard work, but it was also love, sacrifice and support. To this day, Mom is a registered nurse, making a difference in the lives of others with her compassion and expertise.

Looking back, I realize that the strongest woman I've ever known wasn't just a nurse or a mother - she was MY mother. I am forever grateful for the lessons she has taught me about the power of perseverance and the importance of never giving up on your dreams.

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Heidi Calderon

Founder, Berry Cultured

I am a woman of diversity and culture.

I started Berry Cultured because growing up as a young kid and walking down the toy aisle, I did not see any toys that represent me or the people that made up my world. That’s why I created a kid’s brand that celebrates diversity, play, and inspires kids to be uniquely themselves. I strongly believe all kids need to hear “representation matters; you matter”. Prior to starting Berry Cultured I worked at Mattel, and I saw the opening to introduce more of my culture and my history into the toy market. I knew that if I wanted to see that change, I needed to be a part of making the change.

Now I have my own daughter and I feel a sense of pride knowing I’m giving her an opportunity I didn’t have as a kid; to immerse herself in a world of products inspired by childhood imagination and rooted in culture that tells her story and makes life feel a little sweeter. The name Berry Cultured came from a place of finding symbolism for diversity that was relatable to a children’s brand. We’ve got raspberries, strawberries, blueberries; they’re all different, but they’re so similar at the same time. Humanity is "berry" (very) cultured and I’m glad to share that with the world.

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Lisa Jensen-Long

Co-Founder, Reparvi

I am a woman of resiliency.

I grew up as the third child and competitive swimmer, understanding from a young age that competition and challenge are part of life, but resiliency is a key to success. I also learned winning isn't always guaranteed. However, regardless of winning or losing, meaningful rewards can be found through effort, hard work, and passion.

Despite not having a STEM background in my family, I pursued education and career paths that challenged me and allowed me to share my knowledge. Graduating as a marketing major from USC, I excelled in pharmaceutical sales, utilizing my curiosity and communication skills to succeed. Life took a challenging turn as my husband battled gastric cancer while I raised our twins. His passing motivated me to shift my career focus towards diagnostics, where I could contribute to early detection and treatment.

Over a decade at Ventana Medical Systems, I worked tirelessly to develop diagnostic solutions, driven by personal losses to cancer. As a single parent, I dedicated myself to creating a better future, both for my children and cancer patients worldwide. My innate curiosity and refusal to accept "no" as an answer led me to co-found Reparvi, a cell-engineering startup focused on innovative technologies for public good.

Our company's first offering—a biological cryopreservative technology—aims to revolutionize cell and gene therapies, making them more accessible to those in need. I am grateful for the scientists and researchers who continue to educate and inspire me, and I hope that our efforts will contribute to making cancer a manageable, if not extinct, disease for future generations.

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Lacey Rao

Co-Founder, BFC Med

I am a woman of kindheartedness.

My journey has been fueled by a passion for STEM and compassion for people. Starting with a biology degree, my fascination with anatomy and physiology led me to medical school, specializing in orthopedic surgery—a field where women are rare, making up just 6% of Board-Certified surgeons. I was welcomed to a 5-year residency by smart, thoughtful, kind teachers, who never made me feel any different because I was a woman. Through that I found a sub-specialty in hand surgery, which I’ve been practicing in Tucson, AZ for 12 years now. I love being able to return the use of someone’s hands to them; helping grandmothers hold their grandchildren, giving people the ability to sleep through the night without the pain of carpal tunnel syndrome, putting hands and wrists back together after the trauma of motor vehicle accidents.

My love and understanding of the STEM that goes into the medical field is one of the reasons my husband and I started our company, BFC Med. After my mother was hospitalized at a time we lived in different states, I sympathized with the fear and frustration someone may have understanding care plans and the hospital experience in general, especially if you are trying to help a loved one from far away. Our solution is our smartphone app that patients download when admitted to the hospital that provides a wealth of information, such as diagnosis, doctor profiles, and alerts for planned visits every day. The app also connects the patient’s approved friends and family to the care team for clearer, recorded communication. We have completed our prototype, obtained 2 patents to protect our technology, and will begin alpha testing in a local hospital this spring.

Being a woman in medicine or business can be daunting. As a woman finding success in both industries, I strive to be a role model, proving we can excel professionally and personally. I mentor women, including my own daughters ages 7 and 11, nurturing their STEM talents daily. I believe in being a resource for all and fostering collaboration which benefits us collectively.

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Marjorie Rinaldo

Site Coordinator, Jacobs

I am a woman with no limitations.

I owe everything I am today to the man who raised me – my father. As we celebrate Women's Month, I find myself reminiscing on memories I share with him and the profound impact he had on shaping the woman I have become. For as long as I can remember, my father encouraged my sisters and I to chase our dreams and believe that there were no limits to what we could achieve. He never imposed traditional gender roles on me and instead encouraged me to pursue my passions relentlessly. Whether it was sports, academics, or creative endeavors, he stood by my side, cheering me on every step of the way.

As I grew older, my father continued to be my guiding light. When I faced obstacles or doubts about my abilities, he was there to remind me of my worth. He taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of staying true to myself, even in the face of adversity. It was through his encouragement and mentorship I pursued jobs in construction or concrete work. I loved working with my hands like he did! I became a successful site coordinator, breaking into male-dominated industries and paving the way for other women to follow. And every step of the way, my father was there, beaming with pride at the woman I had become.

Today, as I stand tall in my accomplishments, I know that I owe it all to the lessons my father taught me. His love, guidance, and unwavering belief in me have shaped me into the strong, independent woman I am today. And as we celebrate Women's Month, I honor his legacy by continuing to strive for equality and empowerment, just as he did for me.

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Chanda Storer

Factory Support/Value Stream Lead, Raytheon

I am a woman of courageousness.

I am a compassionate Dine’ woman, belonging to the Kiyaanii (Towering House) clan and born for the Ashiihi (Salt People) clan. I was raised on a ranch surrounded by horses and cattle, and quickly understood the value of hard work. I knew from a young age, putting hard work and critical thinking into my goals would help me achieve. As a young girl, I aspired to become a veterinarian. Education has always been a priority in my family, and I discovered that I thrive as a hands-on learner. I eagerly anticipated classes that offered practical labs and found that actively engaging in tasks ensures a deeper understanding that stays with me longer. Agricultural and animal science courses were particularly captivating for me during my academic years, leading me to pursue a background in Animal Science, culminating in a Masters in Reproductive Physiology. My journey into my current field was unexpected; however, taking a chance on applying for my current position led me here, fifteen years later. The environment has been conducive to both learning and professional development.

Reflecting on my decision to relocate to Tucson, I recall the wise words of my mother, who encouraged me not to shy away from opportunities that invoke fear, as they often signify avenues for personal growth. Her advice to be brave resonates deeply with me, and I urge fellow women to embrace courage and strive to make a meaningful impact. You never know whose life you might inspire along the way. I believe in the significance of sharing experiences with women who may find themselves in similar situations or seeking career advancement. Discovering and connecting with women from diverse backgrounds and varied journeys is invigorating. A shared challenge I see in womanhood is being labeled as emotional and not taken seriously for it. It’s important that we recognize both the individual and collective strength we have as women to tap into an emotional side and connect with one another, it’s not a weakness to be passionate, caring and attentive of those around you.

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Mercedes Fuentes

Operational Manager for Bankruptcy Strategy, Citi

I am a woman of personal and professional growth.

I am a first-generation Mexican American woman. My mother and four sons serve as my primary sources of inspiration and drive, their unwavering support has empowered me to overcome challenges. Raised in Tucson, this city has been my home since childhood. Working at Citi Bank has provided me with a platform to advocate for and shed light on the community I hold dear.

Thirteen years ago, my team lead approached me about stepping into a leadership position. At the time, I couldn't envision myself as a leader; the idea had never crossed my mind. Doubts plagued me, asking what could I possibly offer? The reassurance from me team lead made all that fade away, suggesting that I possessed qualities I might not recognize. He encouraged me not to fear trying something unfamiliar. I took the plunge and accepted the leadership opportunity. That decision altered my entire perspective and gave me newfound confidence to more easily assert myself and contribute actively.

I became involved in company groups dedicated to community service, aligning with my own interests. Particularly noteworthy are the remarkable Women of the UA Tech Park, whose strength and influence inspire me daily. I actively seek avenues for personal growth when supporting and uplifting my female colleagues at the park. This includes attending workshops centered on inclusivity and any opportunities for self-improvement. My ultimate aspiration is to continually evolve as a person, striving to be the best version of myself. I understand the importance of being a guiding voice for others, offering encouragement for them to embark on their own journeys. Witnessing someone's progress and development brings me immense joy and a sense of fulfillment. I remain committed to being a beacon of hope and encouragement for those around me. For it is through our collective journey of growth and empowerment that we truly thrive, leaving a lasting impact on our communities and the world at large.

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Carolyn Hutchins

Lead Engineer for Small Tape Libraries, IBM

I am a woman of legacy. The UA Tech Park is in my blood.

Back in 1982, my parents moved from Laramie, Wyoming to Tucson so that my dad could start an engineering job at IBM. At that time, the tech park was only IBM and full of young families new to Tucson. I was born a few years later and spent my childhood at IBM Family Days, Take Your Kid to Work Days, and playing on the scorching hot playground at the Rec Center.

While earning my mechanical engineering undergrad at the U of A, I myself started at IBM as a co-op. I learned so much more about engineering than I could have ever learned in a classroom. When my husband (then boyfriend) graduated from college, he started at Raytheon, also at the UA Tech Park (Hi, Dan Gurney!). Later, when I graduated from grad school, I had a difficult decision to make between IBM and Raytheon. I stayed at IBM and have been there ever since, 13 years this week and counting.

My career has grown and evolved in ways I never could have predicted (For several years, I was also the UA Tech Park Zumba instructor). I am now the Lead Engineer for Small Tape Libraries, a role I took over from an old family friend when he retired.

I'm really grateful for the variety of opportunities the tech park has offered me and my family and I can't wait to see what happens next! Can we bring back the petting zoos, though? My son would really love to touch a goat.

Carolyn as a kid at the UA Tech Park!  

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Hillary Ullrich

Program Manager, Raytheon

I am a woman driven by gratitude.

As a woman in STEM, I am extremely grateful and proud to contribute to fields that shape our world. At Raytheon, I am specifically honored to deliver capabilities that create a safer, more secure world. In the ever-evolving landscape of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), women play a crucial role. Our unique perspectives and problem-solving abilities lead to groundbreaking innovations. Whether it’s developing life-saving medical devices, creating sustainable energy solutions, or advancing artificial intelligence, women contribute significantly. As a STEM enthusiast, I take pride in being part of this transformative community.

Historically, women faced barriers in STEM; I am so grateful to the women who came before me and persistently shattered those limitations. By pursuing STEM careers, we inspire future generations. When young girls see women excelling in fields like computer science, aerospace engineering, or biotechnology, they envision their own possibilities. I am constantly reminded of how important this is as I raise three daughters of my own. As a woman in STEM, I’m passionate about building a sense of community in how I show up as a leader. I thrive on collaborating and working in teams to find solutions to the most complex challenges. I am inspired every day by the community that surrounds me. During International Women’s Month, I hope that the stories of amazing women in history serve as inspiration for everyone to self-reflect and pursue their passion.

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Addie Richards

Tape Automation Development Manager, IBM

I am a woman who breaks boundaries.

I grew up in a rural area outside Columbus, Ohio where early exposure STEM programs were non-existent and female role-models in STEM were hard to come by. In college, I found I was one of very few women in my MIS program, making it more challenging to build out my network and establish connections early on. But rather than letting that deter me, I used it to motivate my own successes and inspire change in the industry.

As I look back on my development and 23-year career at IBM, I appreciate now more than ever the advantages of advocating for diversity in the workplace and the strength inspired by a good role model. When the table is filled with a variety of backgrounds and viewpoints, there’s a breath of fresh air that challenges us to think in new ways and achieve better business outcomes.  The support and mentorship of my trusted female colleague gave me the courage to take on my first product management role. She motivated me to push beyond my comfort zone and it changed the trajectory of my career.  Now, as a people manager it's important to me to empower other women via inclusive hiring practices as well as early exposure to STEM edification. I share my story with K-12 students and my own daughters to inspire bravery so they can envision a future where they are also powerful female leaders in STEM.

I implore women to have the courage to speak up against bias and for leaders to create inclusive environments in STEM. We all must make it our goal to uplift, champion and support talented women to take chances on themselves and continue pushing for progress.

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Shae Sonderer

Project Engineer, Jacobs

I am a woman of ambition.

From an early age, I gravitated towards the STEM field due to the influence of my parents, both of whom are professionals in this area and strongly encouraged me to pursue engineering. Upon entering college, I immediately declared mechanical engineering as my major. That feeling felt so natural that I cannot imagine myself doing anything else. With the support of those around me, I navigated through challenges and found my true calling. This empowerment enabled me to gain an internship and then a full-time position after graduation with Jacobs Engineering at the UA Tech Park. Stretching the mind and solving today’s problems is amazing. Knowing that my contributions have a tangible impact on society adds to this sense of fulfillment.

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Rachel D'Acquisto

Owner & Creator, Cocktail Lab AZ & Ray Ray's Sonoran Spirit Tea

I am a woman who builds community.

I'm Rachel, a.k.a. Ray Ray! I own and operate Cocktail Lab AZ and am the creator of Ray Ray's Sonoran Spirit Tea. I've always earned a living in the service industry, working just about every job from dish washing to general management. The idea for Ray Ray’s came to me while I was bartending, I saw a gap in offerings and created something that wasn’t a beer or cocktail but rather a spiked tea. My favorite part of bartending was making memories with folks and to be part of good times, I became obsessed with doing that on a larger scale, and Ray Ray's Sonoran Spirit Tea was born! My dad came up with the name because my work family nick-named me Ray Ray. As most folks know, we may spend more time with our work family than our actual family. That is a huge reason why a family operated business is so important to us. To have my parents, husband, kids, siblings, and friends be a part of this crazy biz, is proving to be one of my life's great joys.

I started the Cocktail Lab AZ journey during the pandemic, while I tried to figure out how to produce and sell booze safely and legally. With Cocktail Lab AZ I could bartend and do cocktail catering, before I knew it, I was consulting for bar and restaurants. This was the placeholder that allowed me to start my business journey before I had it all figured out, (I'm still learning). You can still find me behind the bar from time to time at the Historic Rialto Theatre Foundation spaces because I just love connecting with people! I can't wait to make Ray Ray's a trusted household name in the craft booze world, because it all comes back to good friends and good spirits.

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Lizeth Celaya

Executive Assistant, Applied Energetics

I am a woman of advocacy.
 
When we think of women in STEM, we think of women who have broken barriers and become successful engineers or scientists. It’s important we keep in mind the women who are running marketing, HR, or legal departments behind closed curtains to ensure the success of a tech company. I am part of the latter group, and I believe that my role will remain essential to the development of our company. I majored in Law at the University of Arizona; I was pursuing a legal career in immigration when I came across this job two years ago. Although the job duties were quite different from what I was doing, I decided to take a shot and landed it. My legal background has helped me assist the company in remaining compliant with different agencies and given me the opportunity to assist Applied Energetics in gaining government funding and advancing business development opportunities.
 
There are many challenges that women in STEM face. For starters, they struggle with representation. Being the only woman, or one of the few women at the table puts extra pressure on everything we do or say. Being in a room where you know everything you say will be challenged only because you’re a woman can be really exhausting. I think the way to address the problem is to encourage more young women to seek careers within STEM industries - no matter their job function. We had a bright female high school intern in the summer of 2023. At the end of the internship, she stated that she would like to become a Mechanical Engineer. She confirmed our beliefs that these internships help young women envision themselves pursuing a career in STEM. With more representation, women in STEM will struggle less to have their voices heard.

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Christine Bradish

Senior VP, Program Management Senior Lead, Citi

I am a woman of faith.

My journey is one marked by both the shadows of uncertainty and the radiant light of hope. As a cancer survivor my life has been a testament to the power of faith and the unwavering support and love of those around me. I could have allowed fear of the unknown to become a constant companion, but I chose hope and perseverance. I found an anchor in my faith. It was a voice of reassurance whispering to me to believe, to move forward. To have faith. I want to share my story, not as a victim of circumstance, but as a survivor who triumphed against the odds. Women's Month is not merely a celebration; it is a reminder that within every woman lies the power to overcome, to rise above challenges, and to illuminate even the darkest corners with the light of hope. May my story serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of women- a beacon for those who, like me, find strength in the embrace of faith and the support of their communities, both personally and professionally.

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Brenna Guzman

Regulatory Affairs & Quality Assurance Manager, Eurofins CellTx

I am a woman of fortitude.

My experience through life has been filled with challenges and triumphs. I was born into a world where opportunities were scarce, dreams seemed distant, and if you wanted something you couldn’t just wish for it. Growing up I faced challenges that easily could have defined me. However, against all odds, I carved my own path and fought to become the strong woman I am today.
My original plan wasn’t a STEM-based career, but to support myself through college I took a role as a lab assistant for a local stem cell bank. Over my career there I fell in love with science, and more specifically establishing quality in science. After nearly a 17-year career there, and moving into the quality assurance department, I decided to expand my horizons by moving into the medical device industry. I quickly realized I missed the lab, which has fortunately led me to my current role with Eurofins CellTx!
When I started in the industry there were not as many women as there are today, but as we encourage each other to continue to pursue our passions our presence grows. The coolest part of STEM to me is that there is such a variety of positions that we can all find our space and as a result we are spreading knowledge, discovering new things, and improving the industry. I feel a sense of pride as a woman in STEM, making strides and proving the pursuit of knowledge knows no gender. International Women’s Month is a reminder that our contributions are not just valuable; they are indispensable in shaping the scientific landscape for generations to come.

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Iselda Méndez

Client Services Coordinator, University of Arizona Center for Innovation

I am a woman of compassion.

I carry the love and life lessons I’ve gathered as a mother and grandmother into everything that I do. I take on each day with gratitude and the goal to lift others. Every day I have the honor of meeting entrepreneurs and watching them grow in their journeys. I’m inspired witnessing the excitement and passion in their eyes as they launch their businesses, eager to overcome challenges and reach hard-to-hit milestones. I cheer them on with admiration and I’m grateful to participate in strategizing and goalsetting to ensure the success of our startups. Working alongside dreamers and innovators every day gives me amazing stories that inspire my granddaughters, encouraging them to become leaders and chase their own dreams. Supporting organizations such as SARSEF opens the door to the world of STEM and helps build the foundation for critical thinking and creating innovative solutions to the challenges our community faces.

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Alicia Ramirez

Compliance Business Control Sr. Manager, Citi

I am a woman of authenticity.

The foundation of my personal growth and career advancement is rooted in development, representation, and mentorship. I am a strong Hispanic, LGBTQIA+ woman, and mom steadfast in my goal to standup for diverse women while raising and sharing experiences with my son. I entered the workforce at a young age and was fortunate enough to quickly find a mentor who shared in the way I identify. In taking young 18-year-old me under her wing, giving me opportunities to learn and succeed while remaining true to oneself, I soon became the youngest store manager in my district. If I had not seen someone that was like me, show me that it was possible, I am not sure I would have believed it was. This experience instilled in me the importance of mentorship to encourage others’ self-development as well as how we can use our voice to influence and educate others. Sharing my experiences can act as a ripple effect, creating small changes in thinking that have a larger impact on those around us. I promote diversity and inclusion by always showing up as my authentic self, serving as an example of success that can be obtained through hard work, perseverance, courage, kindness and compassion.

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Beth Megerle

IT & Finance/HR Assistant, Tech Parks Arizona

I am a woman of adaptability.

My career and journey with STEM have been one twist after another, but I wouldn’t dream of trading my adventure. In all honesty, it took me writing this story and speaking with the powerful women who surround me to find my voice in this space. When I was attending college in the 80’s, STEM (let alone women in STEM) was not the topic of conversation- basic equality for women was. After I graduated from the University of Arizona with a General Studies degree in Classics, History and French, I took on my first job (and twist into STEM) as a computer specialist. At the time, computers were not the norm; cell phones did not exist, anyone with a knack for understanding how the machines and software worked was welcomed as a “specialist”. My career evolved as computers did, growing from a specialist to managing the software and infrastructure for the Athletics Ticket Office and Development Office. Here, I found a space in my career where I was able to lift others. I interacted with students, as event attendees and student employees, listening to and advising their struggles while encouraging their interests and goals within their degrees. I valued my time in a mentorship role for these students, offering advice from a perspective as someone who stumbled into her own path and found excitement in the adventure. Now, I see myself having a smaller, more personal impact for STEM. In my current position, I’m no longer a policies/initiatives creator, however, I’m working directly with people and startups in the science and tech space and can encourage and cheer on their successes. I nurture growth by actively networking on site and connecting people to leaders and resources fueling their success.

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Maylee Haverly

Tactical Strike Proposal Manager, Raytheon

I am a woman driven by humanity.

I am no ordinary woman. I have a compassionate soul with a heart for global service, and I have dedicated my life to making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. With the dawn of International Women's Month, I’ve set out on a journey that takes me to the farthest reaches of the globe. With my background in the aerospace sector and spirit for adventure in tow, my mission is clear: to contribute to the wellbeing of communities in third world countries, igniting a spark of hope and resilience.
My journey hasn’t been without challenges; language barriers, cultural differences, and logistic hurdles tested my resilience. However, my unwavering commitment and ability to connect with people on a personal level transcended these obstacles. This adventure has shown me that I could become a symbol of empowerment, proving that one person's dedication truly could make a world of difference.
My dream is that one day, “Maylee Haverly, the woman who traveled the world to contribute to the well-being of communities”, stands as a shining example during International Women's Month and that my story echoes the collective strength of women making a lasting impact, one community at a time. I hope to inspire other women’s journeys as they continue to carry the spirit of compassion, resilience, and empowerment, showcasing the incredible potential within every woman to change the world.
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Stephanie Caro

Spanish Offshore Collections Sr. Supplier Manager, Citi

I am a woman of determination.

I’m driven by the aspiration of success, by applying my task-oriented skill set. From a very young age, my mother taught me to be disciplined, to be independent and follow my dreams. These learning’s have been the foundation of my professional and personal achievements. I am a Latina leader with 15 years of career experience in STEM. I am proud to be a first-generation college graduate within my family. Life is growth and consequently will strengthens us. Only through experiences and accepting mistakes and failures can we draw our own conclusions to move forward without fear of the result. In order to grow, you must move forward and move on. I am a new mother and I am living the best learning experience, motherhood. I admire mothers that have found a life-work balance. I am passionate about mentoring women in pursuing higher education and fulfilling career achievements. I am a dedicated ally within our women’s community in challenging the status quo & expressing my opinion. My aim is to be a role model that will inspire my daughter and other women to define their individual character, to be self-confident and to be passionate about pursuing their ambitions in life and career.

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Henrietta Lukacs

Systems Engineer, Steward Observatory

I am a woman of radiance.

In the quiet expanses of the universe, amidst the glittering tapestry of stars, there exists a story of a woman whose passion for the cosmos ignited a journey of resilience and determination. I am Henrietta Lukacs, a Systems Engineer dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of the universe, and this is my star-studded story. My fascination with the stars began as a child staring up at the twinkling night skies with my dad in our backyard. Carrying this early spark helped me through the challenges during my journey studying astrophysics. As a woman in a male-dominated academic field, I encountered skepticism and subtle biases, nevertheless, I pursued my studies with unwavering determination. I excelled academically and blazed my own trail through a challenging academic landscape. However, the metaphorical meteors I had dodged persisted as I entered the professional realm. I faced the gender gap head-on, consistently proving myself in an engineering field where women were still underrepresented. I encountered instances where my ideas were dismissed, requiring me to navigate a delicate balance between asserting myself while fostering collaboration; I often found myself standing alone, the weight of gender biases taking their toll. Through it all, I sought solace in the night sky, finding inspiration in the vastness that mirrored my own resilience. I began advocating for inclusivity in STEM fields, engaging in mentorship programs to support aspiring female engineers to become a beacon of hope for those navigating similar challenges. I share my story to serve as a testament to the strength of women who persevere in the face of adversity, radiating light for the generations to come.

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Nicola Esposito

Marketing Specialist, Tech Parks Arizona

I am a woman of female empowerment.

I firmly believe in the mantra, "I am enough." Growing up, I was fortunate to have a mother who instilled this belief in me from a young age. Through stories and shared moments with my mother, I was able to navigate life's twists and turns with resilience and authenticity, always knowing that everything I need lies within. Though I stumble along the way, I remember to embrace my flaws, acknowledge my achievements, and navigate life's challenges with a sense of contentment. As a mother to two amazing little girls, I have the honor and privilege of passing on this invaluable lesson, teaching them that they are worthy of being loved, seen, recognized, and accepted just as they are. No matter what challenges they face, I want them to know they are enough. Together, we embrace the journey of self-discovery, knowing that our worth is inherent and that growth comes from embracing our true selves.

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Women of the UA Tech Park – Features From Previous Years

 2023 Women of the UA Tech Park

 2022 Women of the UA Tech Park 

 2020 Women of the UA Tech Park

 2019 Women of the UA Tech Park