Today we’d like to introduce you to Joan Melendez Misner.
Hi Joan, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
It is an honor to speak with you too. My name is Joan Melendez Misner and I am a Mission Integration Engineer working in the space industry. I am an Orlando, FL native, but originally from Barranquitas, Puerto Rico. I graduated with a dual Bachelor’s of Science degree in Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, and have a Master’s in Science degree in Systems Engineering.
My story is a little unique because I didn’t think I was going to be an engineer growing up. I wanted to be a doctor. However, after volunteering at a local hospital and seeing a lot of blood and needles, I quickly realized it was not for me. If it wasn’t for my amazing guidance counselors and support system, I wouldn’t have found my love for STEM, and that is because when you picture an engineer, you don’t typically see a Latina woman in those roles. And that is why I think it is so important to showcase to young minorities everywhere that you CAN be an engineer and a scientist.
I started my career in aviation working on fighter jets and engines, and then recently moved over to the space sector and now work on space hardware. I still pinch myself thinking that I get to launch rockets and spacecraft to space that explore not only our planet but other planets as well.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Where to begin? I am very open about my journey on social media because I want others to feel seen and heard. When I was in college, I failed several classes and I struggled with imposter syndrome and sometimes depression. It is so important to talk about your mental health because you have students that think they are a failure and won’t be successful if they fail classes or do not have that perfect grade point average. I am here to tell them, that you will be ok and everything will work out in the end if you work hard and persevere. Just know that failure is not the opposite of success; it is part of every success story!
As I mentioned, Imposter Syndrome is where you doubt your accomplishments. I had this throughout college and even my career. I had to take a step back several times and begin a “brag sheet” to write down all of the obstacles I have overcome and how I overcame them. It gave me perspective and made me realize that I do belong and I do deserve my success.
Finally, the most recent challenge I’ve had to overcome was rejection. I applied to NASA (my current job) 13 times before I got an interview. Each rejection hurt, but instead of giving up, I learned and tried to gain new skills to make me more competitive. And here I am, with my dream job, because I persevered!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As I mentioned, I currently work as a Mission Integration Engineer for the Space Industry. Specifically, the management of space and aeronautical flight systems for all non-crewed and scientific missions. My missions include the Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART), Europa Clipper, GOES-U, and Dragonfly missions.
I love being able to work for the Space Industry and get to work on space hardware. As someone who grew up near the Space Coast of Florida, rocket launches were in my backyard, so space was always in my blood. However, I never really thought I could be a “rocket scientist” because I didn’t have the perfect GPA. It wasn’t until I networked and started applying to these positions that your GPA was not the only factor they look at. They want a well-rounded individual and that includes internship/work experience, passion for space, volunteer, and organizations you are a part of.
What matters most to you?
I strongly believe in the power of your network/mentors. One of the motto’s that I live by is “Network to Get Work”. I went to a NASA networking event and after touring a NASA facility and connecting with NASA engineers, I stayed in touch with them. They guided me by providing me with upcoming job announcements, as well as resume tips. I truly believe that networking can help you get on the right path, which is another reason I am so open on social media. If you need resume help, I got you. If you need someone to give career advice, I got you. A lot of people helped me along the way to help me get to where I am, and I want to extend a helping hand to anyone who was in my position several years ago.
Finally, I think it’s important to showcase STEM careers to young girls at a young age. One of my favorite quotes from a fellow STEM friend is “My biggest fear is that the cure for cancer is in the mind of a young girl that is told from a young age that science is for boys.” It is a powerful quote that I have repeated several times. We need to encourage young girls who may have an interest in science by showcasing female role models in those careers. It is much easier to show them what they can become if they can see themselves in those positions.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://beacons.ai/yourfemaleengineer/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourfemaleengineer/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourfemaleengineer/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourFemaleEng
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@yourfemaleengineer
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