How to Overcome Bias and Discrimination as a Woman Engineer: A Personal Reflection

Today, I had a heartfelt coaching session with a young female engineer who reached out for guidance. As we wrapped up, she hesitated, then said she had one last question. We were out of time, but I sensed it was important, so I encouraged her to share.

She asked, "What do you do to deal with biases and discrimination as a woman engineer? Have you ever experienced it?"

I paused—not because I didn’t have an answer, but because her question stirred a wave of memories. Memories of hurtful experiences, of challenges I’ve worked hard to rise above.

Yes, I’ve Experienced It—A Lot

Bias and discrimination have been a reality for me as a woman engineer, and as an Asian minority. In fact, being both a woman and an Asian creates a “double whammy,” meaning I’ve encountered discrimination and biases rooted in both my gender and my race. Each layer adds complexity to the challenges, as stereotypes about women and Asians intersect, sometimes amplifying the mistreatment.

Bias, I explained, often comes subtly—when people treat you differently without realizing it, or thinking they’re doing you a favor based on stereotypes. Discrimination, on the other hand, is intentional mistreatment due to your gender or race.

In school, I felt supported by my classmates and professors, even as one of the few women in my electrical engineering department. But the workplace was different.

As an entry-level engineer, I was told I was "too stupid to be an engineer" and that I should “throw my degree away.” My colorful outfits were criticized as unprofessional, and my smile was deemed too friendly to be taken seriously. Even as I climbed the ladder to senior leadership, the attacks didn’t stop. I was publicly questioned, ridiculed for my intelligence, and even called names like “smarty pants.”

Being Asian added another layer to this dynamic. I was sometimes perceived as quiet or submissive, assumptions that undermined my leadership abilities. I had to work even harder to be taken seriously, to make my voice heard, and to assert my place at the table.

How I Overcame It

I had a choice: let these experiences defeat me, or use them as fuel to grow and thrive. I chose the latter.

1. Turning Pain Into Growth: To overcome the earlier discrimination, I pursued two additional master’s degrees and earned my professional engineering license—all while raising two kids under four and working full-time. I joined professional networks to expand my connections, honed my public speaking skills, and attended conferences to share my voice.
2. Finding Allies and Expanding Networks: It’s easy to focus on the negativity around us, but the more we grow and expand our network, the more we attract people who believe in us. As I’ve learned, the law of attraction applies here: what we focus on grows.
3. Flying High: One of my favorite lessons comes from Michelle Obama’s words: “When they go low, we go high.” I’ve learned that there’s less traffic the higher we fly. We can’t control others’ actions, but we can control our responses. By acting with purpose and integrity, we rise above the pettiness and continue growing.

My Advice to Women Facing Bias or Discrimination

• Use Challenges as Fuel for Growth: Let the biases and discrimination motivate you to thrive. Prove the doubters wrong—not for them, but for yourself.
• Seek Allies: Build a strong network of people who uplift and support you. They’ll help you see the possibilities when the challenges seem overwhelming.
• Focus on Your Flight: Aim higher, grow stronger, and focus on your own growth. Let your actions and success speak louder than words.

To the young engineer who asked me this question: remember, you’re not alone. These challenges are tough, but they’re also opportunities to shine. Keep growing, keep fighting, and keep flying high. Because the world needs your brilliance—and the higher you fly, the brighter you’ll shine.

If you’re facing similar challenges or need guidance navigating biases and discrimination, I’m here to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—I’d be honored to support you on your journey. 
Apply for a free coaching session here: https://www.theencourageteam.com/applyforcoaching