Natasha (she/her) earned her BS in mechanical engineering from CU Boulder. She worked as a civilian nuclear engineer for the US Navy in Honolulu, Hawai’i, before returning to CU Boulder. She is currently an Engineering Project Consultant with the Integrated Teaching and Learning Program (ITLP), engaging students in the engineering design process and offering feedback to improve the student experience with hands-on engineering activities. Welcome to the CEAS community, Natasha!Â
Where is the best place you’ve traveled to and why?
I lived in Madrid for six months in 2018, and it’s still my favorite city. It combines all the perks of city life with gorgeous architecture and an eclectic, friendly population.
Which TV show do you never miss?
Doctor Who! The message of hope and kindness at its core really resonates with me – plus it has some truly silly and fun episodes.
What is an ordinary moment in your life that brings you joy?
Making drip coffee in the morning.
What is a motto or quote that you hold dear and why?
“One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a boy picking something up and gently throwing it into the ocean. Approaching the boy, he asked, “What are you doing?” The youth replied, “Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll die.” “Son,” the man said, “don’t you realize there are miles and miles of beach, and hundreds of starfish? You can’t make a difference!” After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it back into the surf. Then, smiling at the man, he said… “It made a difference for that one.”
– Common adaptation of The Star Thrower by Loren Eiseley
I heard the “starfish story” when I was in high school, and it made me realize that I could pass along the help that had been offered to me, even when the underlying issues seemed overwhelming.
One thing you’re willing to spend way too much on...
Any kind of survival gear! Do I really need to carry rope or flint and steel? Probably not! But what if…
What has been your favorite work or personal project so far?
I got the chance in 2020 to work with some incredible people to found Pearl Pride, Pearl Harbor Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility’s first LGBT+ Employee Resource Group.