In celebration of International Women in Engineering Day, we sat down with proHNS Environmental Engineer Lexi Rodriguez-Padilla to learn more about her path into engineering, the mentors who shaped her journey, and the advice she has for the next generation of women considering careers in STEM. From studying abroad in India to supporting projects across Alaska and Washington, Lexi’s story reflects the curiosity, resilience, and community-minded spirit that engineering can foster.
1. What first sparked your interest in engineering, and what led you to pursue engineering in college?
Honestly, I think my grandpa first sparked my interest in engineering. My grandpa is one of the youngest of 14 kids, and he’s always had an incredible ability to take things apart and put them back together. Whether it was fixing a car, building furniture, or troubleshooting a broken appliance. His confidence and problem-solving mindset taught me that with a little grit and curiosity, you can fix just about anything.
I remember one of the first projects he helped me with was when I was in 4th grade, where we had to come up with an invention. My grandpa helped me design a hot dog cooker powered by a car battery, which was both a fun experience and a lesson in creativity and hands-on troubleshooting! Beyond that, his craftsmanship and passion for building inspired my curiosity about how things work and how they’re made. This foundation led me to pursue engineering in college, where I could combine my love for design, problem-solving, and creating tangible solutions.
2. Can you tell us a bit about your career journey up to your current role?
I graduated in 2024 with a degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of Washington with Honors and a minor in Chemistry. My senior year took me on a study abroad program in India, which completely shifted my perspective on engineering. I realized that engineering is beyond just finding the right answer; it pushes you to solve real problems with creativity and resilience.
In India, I saw people constantly faced with challenges, but instead of being deterred, they were inspired. They approached problems creatively, learned from setbacks, and leaned on their communities for support. This experience made me value my own support system, my husband, friends, and family, even more. It also reinforced the importance of work-life balance, which drew me here.
My journey to proHNS began with an application for a Civil Engineer-in-Training (EIT) position. After what I’ll politely call “persistent follow-ups” with Garret, he offered me an interview. When he asked if I was open to travel, I jumped at the chance. A year later, I’m still here, designing projects and growing alongside this amazing firm.
3. What do you enjoy most about your job today?
proHNS fosters a culture where authenticity is celebrated. I love that I can be myself here, whether it’s asking questions, sharing ideas, or just enjoying the camaraderie.
Beyond that, I really enjoy the community here at proHNS. Working alongside people who are passionate, knowledgeable, and willing to mentor inspires me daily. Learning from senior Civil Engineers has inspired me to pursue my own Professional Engineer (PE) license. Their guidance has shaped my experience here and motivates me to pay it forward one day.
4. Have you had any mentors or role models who influenced your career path?
Absolutely. I’ve been lucky to have many mentors and role models who’ve shaped my journey.
Graciela, one of my best friends from the University of Washington, is a force of nature. She’s always pursuing new opportunities, whether in higher education or professional growth. Her relentless drive reminds me to keep reaching for opportunities that excite and challenge me. She recently obtained her master’s degree in health informatics, and I can’t wait to see where her journey takes her next.
I’ve been fortunate to learn from many inspiring women throughout my academic journey. Two PhD students who taught my Engineering in Developing Communities course left a lasting impact. Both were young women in their mid-20s who were far from home and using their education to create change:
One focused on electric boat motors in rural Africa, aiming to reduce environmental damage from gas motors in waterways, and the other worked on engineering solutions for rural Alaska, ensuring communities had access to essential services. Their work exemplified to me how one person can truly make a difference and how I can use my skills for meaningful impact.
And of course, my mom. She is my biggest role model; her grit, strength, and ability to lead by example inspire me to take charge in my life and embrace challenges head-on. She’s also my biggest cheerleader, and I wouldn’t be where I am without her support.
5. What’s been one of the most rewarding projects or moments in your career so far?
One of the most rewarding projects was here at proHNS in my role as a Consultant Inspector I on Prince of Wales Island in Alaska. We were resurfacing and widening a road connecting Whale Pass to the main road, and it was my first time on an active construction site.
What made it especially meaningful was seeing the positive community impact. The locals were incredibly grateful for the improved road, and I got to see firsthand how engineering can directly enhance lives.
I also learned so much from the team:
Amy Price, a coworker at proHNS, was my rock. She is both supportive and encouraging, she believes in my abilities, and she motivated me to step out of my comfort zone.
Chad Ensminger, the Project Engineer, gave me the freedom to try new things and build my skills to learn by doing.
Jeanette Brucker, our SWPPP lead, was a powerhouse of knowledge about stormwater control and Alaska’s ecosystems. Her passion was contagious, and I still carry much of what she taught me into my work today.
This project wasn’t just about construction; it was about collaboration, learning, and making a tangible difference, and that’s what makes it unforgettable. This was truly such a beautiful and unique project that reminded me why I chose to pursue engineering.
6. What advice would you give to young women or girls considering a career in engineering?
Never give up, even if you have to work twice as hard as those around you. You deserve a seat at the table just as much as anyone else, and your perspective is valuable.
Advocate for yourself fearlessly. Speak up, ask questions, and don’t shy away from sharing your ideas. Your hard work will pay off, but remember failure is part of the journey. Every mistake is a lesson, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow.
As a Mexican-American woman, I’ve faced my share of trials, but I’ve also found strength in the women who paved the way before me. Take up space. Be bold. Use your voice. You’re not alone, and the engineering world is better when you’re in it. Lean on your resources, trust your instincts, and keep going. The future needs your leadership, and I hope to see more young girls stepping into roles where their voices are heard and valued.
7. Outside of work, how do you like to recharge or spend your time?
I love surrounding myself with the people who matter most, my friends and family. They’re the heart of my life, and I honestly don’t know where I’d be without them.
When I’m not with loved ones, I enjoy listening to new and old music (like Olivia Rodrigo’s new album ‘You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love!’), thrifting, upcycling, and crafting. As an Environmental Engineer, protecting the planet is one of my core values. It’s fulfilling to combine my passions for creativity and sustainability in these ways.
I also cherish my role as a Girl Scout Troop Leader and Volunteer. Working with young women and watching them grow into confident leaders is incredibly rewarding. Their journeys remind me why I do what I do: to inspire and be inspired, and to help make the world a better place.
