Becca Brader – Engineer Your Own Path
This seminar traces one engineer’s unexpected journey through STEM. Learn how a love for problem-solving and the scientific method led to an engineering degree—without fully knowing what engineers actually do! Students will discover how engineering education builds logical thinking and resilience (even when the career path takes surprising turns), try on real PPE from various roles, and hear what it’s like to almost give up—and why it was worth staying the course.
Becca is a seasoned professional in engineering, quality and project management. She graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1999, as a proud first-generation college student, with a BS in Environmental Chemical Engineering and in 2022 from Rockhurst University with an Executive MBA. She has held positions/received certification in several fields including Control Systems Engineer, Improvements Engineer, Quality Manager, etc. She has had the opportunity to work in a variety of industries including environmental remediation, ag chemicals, plastics, industrial filtration, apparel, and pharmaceuticals. Currently she is employed by Catalent Pharma Solutions as a Senior Engineering Manager and is a active member of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). Becca is also an active community STEMM volunteer and mentor. Each year she serves as a category head judge for the Greater Kansas City and Engineering Fair, where she recently celebrated her 10th year of service. Throughout the year she mentors students of all ages and young professionals. In 2022 Becca was recognized by Catalent as a Global STEMM Volunteer of the Year.