What was your first job and what did you learn from it?

My first real job was at age 14 in the position of "retail counter sales." Making the decision to apply for this job emphasized the importance of setting priorities based on your values - I had to choose between continuing to play on a state championship basketball team and working so I could buy a car! I seemed to sell a tremendous amount of chocolate mousse cakes, which I loved. I realized that when you truly believed in something that people believed you and would take your counsel.

What inspired you to choose your current field or the position you currently hold?

My father was an engineer and I was fortunate enough to be inclined towards math and science. I had earned a term of college credit in calculus, physics and English in high school, so my direction in college seemed obvious. Quite frankly, when I had to make a decision about my major, I consulted surveys on the highest paid degrees and the jobs with the most growth potential - electrical engineering was the answer in both cases.

Why would you encourage other women or young women and girls to choose careers in your field? What advice would you give someone who wanted to choose your career?

Go for it! I like to explain to young people that a college degree is proof of your tenacity and dedication to a project. Just because you obtain a degree in engineering doesn't mean you can't pursue other goals in your life. A tough science degree shows your perspective employers that you have what it takes to succeed.

What motivates or inspires you on a daily basis in your field or job?

Challenge. I used to think it had something to do with money, but when I turned down another job that included a substantial raise a couple of years ago, I realized that my paycheck gets deposited automatically into the bank and then it gets spent automatically.

What do you see as the single most interesting element of your work?

I find the technology of infrared imaging very intriguing. My day-to-day job is diverse and each day is full of such a variety of tasks that I am never bored. Also, my coworkers are very enjoyable.

Why is your field or industry important to society?

Infrared imaging equipment has been utilized for many years to provide night vision for aircraft and ground surveillance. Our equipment was critical in the success of the Desert Storm Operation. We are currently involved with a project called ALG which will enhance the safety of aircraft landing in conditions that obscure normal vision, such as darkness or fog. In the commercial sector, our equipment is used to predict and prevent failure in a variety of electrical and mechanical equipment - the utility companies employ our imagers in their substations to avoid the loss of power to millions of people. Product development in automotive and microprocessor industries benefit from the unique view of heat that infrared cameras visualize.

What is your vision for your industry's or field's future? What are some of the exciting things to watch for in your field or industry?

The equipment is better, prices are lower and applications are expanding as a result. Each day something new and exciting is discovered. We are active in new technology research and integration into specific applications, such as machine vision. Our broadcast products produce the most impressive gyro-stabilized visible images available today.

What values are the most important to you and what do you value in others? How do you prioritize these values in your daily life?

Quality of life is what I am striving for - trying to make enough time in each day to work hard, exercise, talk to family and friends and pursue personal development. In relationships, both business and personal, I value an honest, direct approach to problems and solutions.

What do you think are the most important character traits to develop in order to succeed professionally?

Tenacity. Never take "no" as the final word. This is not only critical for success in business, but everyday life. Dedication, honesty and a positive mental attitude will provide the springboard for success.

Who is your hero, mentor or person you most admire and why?

My parents forced me to be responsible at a young age - which I hated then but has resulted in my success. My grandma was a dynamic influence in my personal development, especially a love for socializing, traveling and cooking.

What is your favorite book and why?

I am enthralled by "Taming the Atom" by Hans Christian Von Bayer. Every summer I sit under a tree, re-read this book and enter the invisible world of atomic structure and energy. Since I spend most of my time traveling, I read magazines like crazy.

What book would you recommend to someone who knows nothing about your field or industry but would like to know more about it?

To my knowledge, there is really no book that would do justice to infrared imaging or women in engineering. Wow, maybe I should write one!

What technology has changed your life professionally or personally for the better?

The microcomputer is responsible for so many technological advances that have changed our lives - many would argue whether the change is for the good or the bad. Personally, a cellular phone has increased my security when traveling. I am also grateful for home espresso machines.

What are your future goals?

To balance my life more and stay healthy.

What do you do to relax?

We live on an island in a river surrounded by sailboats and beautiful views. When I get home (after 12 hours away each day or a few weeks of travel), I like to be at home with my husband or visiting with our good friends the Johnstons and Kaysers. I also enjoy gardening, reading and anything outdoors near the water.