Demi Ruiz
Senior Engineer / Analyst
JHU/APL
“If you don't like the first thing you do, keep trying new things!”
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
In high school I took auto mechanics and my dad told me I should be an engineer.
I got a degree and worked for the Navy.
I left engineering while I had kids, started my own education business and got another degree.
I returned to engineering and began working in a professional capacity with STEM students.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Graduate
Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs
Johns Hopkins University
Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs
Johns Hopkins University
Career
Senior Engineer / Analyst
I develop and validate simulations of complex systems to provide analysis of their performance.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Armed Services
Engineering
Problem Solving
Day to Day
I primarily work at my desk connecting with my colleagues via audio / video connection. My work centers on developing simulations using systems engineering techniques so I develop system architecture diagrams and descriptions that are used to write simulations themselves. I also develop mathematical descriptions of physical phenomena to be used in simulations. So I write code, test the code and then send that to other developers to incorporate in their code base.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for high school students
Solid basic education in mathematics and science particularly geometry, algebra and physics! Take any available engineering curriculum or activities—after school robotics, STEM academies, Project Lead the Way. And find a mentor—somebody you feel comfortable talking to and who is in a field that you find interesting. But remember, your options are still open! If you don't like the first thing you do, keep trying new things!
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Peers:
"When I left my first job my boss congratulated my on deciding to quit working and stay home to raise kids."
Challenges I Overcame
Gender Discrimination
