Dr. Houghtalen joins us to break down the disconnect between academia and industry in engineering, sharing her on going research on what makes (or breaks) a successful transition. We also talk about collaboration in the field, personal passions like music, and the uncomfortable reality of sexism in the workplace—all topped off with a conversation about pizza preferences. Grab a slice and listen in! 

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kendall to dive into her journey in research and engineering education. She shares insights into her experiences, the challenges and opportunities in the field, and her hopes for the future of engineering education. We also get a glimpse into her favorite music and the STEM figures who have influenced her path. Tune in for an engaging discussion that blends technical expertise with personal passion! 

In this episode, we sit down with Ashley Padilla, a senior student-athlete balancing the intense demands of being a collegiate soccer player and an Engineering Leadership major with a concentration in Biomedical engineering. As she navigates her final year and tackles her capstone senior design project, Ashley shares the highs and lows of managing academics, athletics, and personal growth. From game-winning moments on the field to late-night study sessions, she offers an inside look at what it truly takes to excel in both arenas. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about perseverance, time management, and the mindset required to succeed as a student-athlete in a rigorous engineering program!

In this episode, Vanessa and I explore the positives and negatives of AI, discussing its impact on education, industries, and human culture as technology continues to evolve. Plus, we get a special glimpse into the future with Dr. Gonzalez’s very own AI-generated podcast!

In this episode, we sit down with alumni Maximo Gamez, Jesse Espinoza, and Alejandra Garay to explore life after graduation. The guests share their experiences navigating the transition from college to their professional careers, offering valuable advice for current students on how to prepare for success. From practical career tips to insights into their engineering salaries, this episode provides a transparent and inspiring look at the realities of post-graduate life. Whether you’re a student planning your next steps or simply curious about engineering careers, this episode has something for you.

In this episode of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast, We dive into a story of unparalleled resilience, collaboration, and engineering innovation: the 2010 Copiapó mining accident in Chile. After a cave-in trapped 33 miners nearly half a mile underground, the world watched with bated breath as engineers, rescuers, and entire communities worked tirelessly for 69 days to bring every miner safely to the surface. Join us as we explore the inspiring efforts behind the rescue, how El Paso’s own mining history connects us to this event, and the engineering and human spirit that made the impossible possible. 

In this episode, Paola Casas, the program coordinator for the Department of Engineering, Education, and Leadership, shares her journey from studying music in Juarez, Mexico, with dreams of becoming an opera singer, to pursuing a career in public health. Paola discusses her passion for helping the community and her experience as a research assistant working with vulnerable populations in El Paso. She also talks about how her love for UTEP led her to her current role as a program coordinator, bridging her background in public health with the world of engineering education.

In this episode,  Stephanie and Vanessa explore the importance of curiosity in shaping how we think and learn. They discuss how curiosity drives progress, with examples from history like Marie Curie and Albert Einstein. The episode also shares practical tips on how to be more curious in everyday life, inspired by the quote from Voltaire: "Judge a man by his questions rather than by his answers."

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ramirez, the newest member of the Engineering Education and Leadership department. Join us as we explore her academic journey from undergraduate studies to her master's and PhD, and hear about her inspiring return to El Paso. Dr. Ramirez shares her favorite local eateries, insights on transitioning to UTEP, and her experiences in the E-Lead program. Whether you're curious about her educational path or looking for great food recommendations, this episode has something for everyone!

In today’s episode, Vanessa and Stephanie delve into the tragic Hyatt Regency Hotel collapse in Kansas City in 1981. They explore how such a critical engineering mistake could occur and discuss the importance of ethical professionalism. They also offer insights on applying character, competence, and capacity to your everyday career.