Building Trust Through Numbers
How one electrical engineer is breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation of women in STEM.
Breaking Barriers: My Journey as a Woman in Engineering
My name is Marilia Ribeiro. I'm 35 years old, a wife, and a proud mother to a beautiful 3-year-old daughter. I'm also an electrical engineer with 12 years of specialized experience in instrument transformer design and R&D at GE Vernova. But my story isn't just about credentials—it's about persistence, passion, and proving that technical excellence knows no gender.
Navigating a Male-Dominated World
From my first day in engineering college to every project meeting throughout my career, I've been surrounded by men. At first, it felt intimidating. But I made a choice early on: I would let my technical expertise speak for itself. Instead of fighting against the environment, I focused on becoming undeniably good at what I do. That focus became my superpower.
My career has taken me across continents—from Brazil to the US including Georgia, Pennsylvania and now to Clearwater, Florida—all with GE Vernova. Each move brought new challenges, but also new opportunities to prove that dedication and technical skill transcend any bias or preconception.
The Power of Support
Behind every successful woman is a support system that believes in her dreams. My husband has been my rock. When my career required relocation, he made the incredible decision to pause his own professional path to follow mine. That kind of partnership—where both people champion each other's dreams—is invaluable.
My father has been my guiding star professionally, he was my main influence to become an engineer in the first place. His wisdom shaped how I approach challenges. His two most powerful pieces of advice? Stay motivated, don`t lose the enthusiasm and trust your instincts. These simple words have carried me through countless difficult decisions and moments of doubt.
Standing Your Ground
Here's what I've learned: in technical fields, being right matters more than being loud. There have been many times when male colleagues disagreed with my analysis or approach. In those moments, I had a choice—back down or stand firm. When I knew my technical reasoning was sound, I held my ground. Each time I did, I built not only my own confidence but also earned the trust and respect of my peers.
That confidence didn't come overnight. It was forged through preparation, continuous learning, and the courage to defend my expertise even when it felt uncomfortable.
My Message to Women in Technical Fields
To every woman working in a male-dominated environment, I want you to hear this:
Trust yourself. Your technical knowledge is valid. Your perspective is valuable. Your voice matters.
Stay focused on excellence. Let your work quality, technical depth, and problem-solving abilities define you. When you consistently deliver results, respect follows.
Don't let anyone diminish you. There will be moments when people underestimate you or dismiss your ideas. Stand firm when you know you're right. Your conviction will build both your confidence and your credibility.
Seek support, and be support. Find mentors, partners, and colleagues who champion your success. And when you can, be that person for another woman starting her journey.
Balance is possible. Yes, I'm a mother, a wife, and a dedicated engineer. These roles don't compete—they complement each other. The organizational skills, empathy, and resilience required in motherhood make me better at my job, and the confidence I've built professionally makes me a better role model for my daughter.
The Future is Inclusive
Every day, I work to design and innovate in my field, but I'm also helping to design a different future—one where my daughter won't have to be "the only woman in the room" as often as I was. Where her technical aspirations will be encouraged without question. Where support systems for working mothers in STEM are the norm, not the exception.
To the young women considering engineering, to those in the middle of their technical careers wondering if they belong, to the mothers balancing it all: You belong here. Your perspective is needed. Your contributions matter. The technical world needs diverse minds to solve complex problems.
Stay motivated. Trust your instincts. Focus on your technical excellence. Stand your ground.
The path isn't always easy, but it's absolutely worth it.
