The Lounge by Sarah Kalmeta

Episode 38 - Women in STEM - Aerospace Engineering Innovation & Education

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“We need the brilliance and innovation of all people to face today’s challenges and to succeed at our extraordinary ambitions. Be part of the solution!” — Nancy A. Levenson, Deputy Director, Space Telescope Science Institute

In this episode, Sarah chats with Samantha Dolski, a third-year aerospace engineering student at the University of Texas at Austin and the Director of Operations at the Texas Rocket Engineering Lab. Samantha shares her journey in aerospace engineering, her work on the lab's mission to send a liquid bipropellant rocket to space, and how her passion for climate research is shaping her career. Alongside her engineering endeavors, Samantha explains how the creative arts, like playing the piano, help develop the skills necessary for success in STEM.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Why it’s important for young girls and women to consider STEM careers, especially in aerospace and engineering
  • How creative arts and left-brain activities, like music, support technical study and innovation
  • Insights into the work of the Texas Rocket Engineering Lab and their goal of launching a liquid bipropellant rocket into space
  • The intersection of climate research on Earth and other planets and how Samantha is working to refine our understanding


    • Guest Spotlight:

    Samantha Dolski: A driven aerospace engineering student with a passion for space exploration, climate research, and uplifting women in STEM, Samantha is also an active member of her sorority and the Director of Operations at the Texas Rocket Engineering Lab. She envisions a future where STEM is more inclusive and accessible for everyone, especially women.


    Fun Facts:

    • Samantha enjoys playing the piano and is passionate about using music as a way to enhance her problem-solving skills.
    • She's fascinated by global dust storms and dedicates part of her research to studying them.
    • Samantha dreams of visiting Paris, home to the European Space Agency, and immersing herself in the rich history of space exploration there.


      • Episode Highlights:

      [00:00:00] Introduction to Samantha’s background and passion for aerospace engineering

      [00:15:00] The work being done at the Texas Rocket Engineering Lab and their goals for the future

      [00:30:00] How Samantha incorporates the creative arts, like music, into her technical studies

      [00:45:00] The importance of encouraging young women to pursue STEM careers and the need for more diversity in the field

      Podcast Description:

      Welcome to The Lounge by Pivot Point, where we explore new perspectives, personal growth, and leadership lessons with inspiring guests. Hosted by Sarah, this podcast aims to help you pivot towards success and enjoy the journey of life, no matter the turbulence you may face.

      Call to Action:

      • Date: Join us live today at 2:15 PM Central to hear from Samantha Dolski and learn about her inspiring journey in aerospace engineering and the innovative work happening at the Texas Rocket Engineering Lab.
      • Share: Know a young woman interested in STEM? Share this episode and inspire her to take the leap into aerospace engineering and beyond!
      • Subscribe: Don’t miss future episodes of The Lounge by Pivot Point—subscribe today for fresh insights and inspiring stories!


        To Learn More about Samantha and the Texas Rocket Engineering Lab:

        • Website: Texas Rocket Engineering Lab
        • Instagram: @texasrocketengineeringlab


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