Perspective from an Engineer in Training

• Posted by Pam Hoddinott
• On Wed Feb 19

Happy National Engineers Week! It’s time to celebrate how engineers make a difference and emphasize their contributions to society.

We sat down with one of the engineers on the Chateau Energy Solutions’ team – Kristie Teoh – to learn more about why she wanted to become an engineer. Kristie graduated from Georgia Tech in 2018 with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. She is currently an Engineer in Training (EIT) and plans to pursue her Professional Engineer (PE) certification. Kristie helps in leading Chateau Energy’s efforts in benchmarking, energy audits, sustainability strategies including Energy Star Certification, and Managed Services.

Here is what Kristie had to say about entering the engineering field:

When did you start to think about becoming an engineer?

Growing up I always enjoyed math and science and it always seemed to click. It also helped that Georgia Tech was down the road!

What were some of the major influencers of this decision?

I have five uncles who went to Georgia Tech to study a variety of disciplines in engineering, so I was always surrounded by technical talk.

Who are some engineers that have inspired you?

William Sanford Nye, better known as Bill Nye the Science Guy, was a big influence on me. Despite being “the Science Guy,” Nye was a mechanical engineer. He thought of different ways to make science and engineering relatable and engaging to all types of audiences.

What do you consider some of the most interesting aspects of engineering?

I really like the quote by Chuck Palahniuk: “The goal isn’t to live forever, the goal is to create something that will,” because it embodies the curiosity and creativity engineering requires. Most people think engineering is just math and science and logic, but it is so much more. Engineering provides an outlet for imagination and thinking outside the box – otherwise, we wouldn’t have half the technology we use today.

How did you know engineering was right for you?

The summer before my senior year in high school, I went to a week-long aerospace camp in the upper Midwest. This was the first time I had any hands-on experiences with engineering: experimenting with a wind tunnel, building our own rockets and gliders, and seeing simulations run in a research lab. I thought it was really exciting to see engineering up close.

What would you say to someone right now if they asked you should they study engineering?

Engineering can be difficult and challenging – but it is worthwhile. Being an engineer opens a lot of doors and opportunities in many different industries. You gain the ability and capability to do anything that is important to you.