On February 11, 2025, over 100 students from Armwood High School, Yosemite High School, McMinnville High School, and Shelton High School joined an inspiring IGNITE Virtual Mini-Panel focused on Women in Automotive. The event featured an incredible lineup of Panelists: Natalie Flores, Lead Program Manager at Rivian; Sulagna Bharati, Senior Staff at Infineon; and Jenna TenBrook, Senior Technical Trainer – Auto at Rivian. The discussion was skillfully guided by Fethiye Starmach as the Facilitator, with behind-the-scenes tech support from Anusha Musunuri, Data Scientist at Snap Inc., and Sai Krishna Khanday.
The students heard firsthand about the Panelists’ journeys into the automotive industry, learning how STEM shaped their careers and how they found roles that fit their skills and interests. Panelists shared valuable advice on selecting high school courses, exploring different educational pathways, and seeking out workplaces that foster a supportive, inclusive environment. One standout piece of advice encouraged students to stay resilient — reminding them that even if they face setbacks or feel like imposters, they’re more capable and deserving than they realize.
Students asked thoughtful questions about salaries, job benefits, and how to break into the automotive field. They were curious about the cool technology inside Rivian vehicles and wanted to know how to prepare for a career in the industry. Inspired by a keynote speaker from the California STEAM Symposium, some students asked how the Panelists overcame discrimination and roadblocks. Panelists emphasized the importance of perseverance, authenticity, and believing in their own abilities, regardless of who might doubt them.
For Shelton High School students, the experience extended beyond the panel — after the virtual session, sophomores led hands-on automotive workshops for younger students, covering everything from tire rotation and brake checks to working with test lights and a vehicle hoist.
This event empowered all students to envision themselves in the automotive industry, proving that courage, curiosity, and confidence are key to driving their futures forward.
“Today’s event inspired me by seeing women in fields that are typically filled with men. Seeing representation made me believe that I can do this.”
9th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me to pursue what I want to be and dedicate myself to in the future. At today’s event, I liked the confidence that each of the participants had about their careers. I thank them because, thanks to that, I have learned a little more about STEM and the different careers.”
10th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me to pursue a STEM career. It also opened my eyes to how many STEM careers there are.”
9th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me to try new things and showed me opportunities I never knew about. My favorite thing that I learned today was about all of the benefits I could possibly get from STEM if I choose to pursue it.”
8th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me to get a job in STEM and motivated me to keep going. My favorite thing I learned was how to get into programs I would want to do and how to do it.”
11th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
60%
INTERESTED IN STEM
63%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
60%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“It inspired me to learn more about auto technicians. It also inspired me to learn more about education and benefits. I learned how to be a better instructor. It was very interesting helping out with younger students.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“It was very inspirational and motivating to know that the career choice has evolved. My favorite thing I learned today was the benefits of working at Rivian and how much the career has been involving more women. It will be more comfortable for women to join the automotive pathway.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“It showed me that there is hope for women to go into this career path. I liked learning about the benefits.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me to try more things. It showed me how many amazing options I have. My favorite thing I learned today was the wages!” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Natalie Flores
- Sulagna Bharati
- Jenna TenBrook
- Fethiye Starmach
- Anusha Musunuri
- Sai Krishna Khanday
- Marcella Huang
- Mehjabeen Awan
- Jeff Rivero
- Ted Newfield
- Mike Beyer
- Shad Morrow
- Chip Ford
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.