Her Story
About Emily
Emily Skipworth is a Mechanical Engineering student at California State University, Northridge with a strong focus on biomedical applications, particularly prosthetics and robotics. Originally interested in medicine, she shifted her path toward engineering after realizing she wanted to help people through design and innovation rather than clinical practice. This led her to mechanical engineering, where she has built a solid foundation in manufacturing, systems thinking, and applied problem-solving.
She is currently engaged in a senior research project with the Smart Prosthetics team at CSUN, contributing to the development of assistive technologies aimed at improving mobility and quality of life. Alongside her academic work, she is employed in a logistics and estimating role at Calmont General Engineering, where she supports project estimates, bids, dispatch coordination, and operational tracking. Her experience also includes leadership and service roles in tutoring, special education support, and team management in fast-paced environments.
Emily’s professional interests center on the intersection of mechanical engineering and biomedical innovation, with a long-term goal of designing advanced prosthetic systems. She is known for her collaborative approach, strong work ethic, and commitment to using engineering as a tool for meaningful impact. Beyond her technical work, she values teamwork and continuous learning, and plans to further her studies in biomedical engineering to deepen her expertise in prosthetics research and development.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Emily
01What do you attribute your success to?
My family is a huge help. They support me in any way that they can. And then I would say, just being patient with myself.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that where I am today is not where I will ultimately end up.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to trust that they belong and to approach opportunities with confidence. A lot of success comes down to mindset—showing up, putting in the work, and allowing your results and growth to speak for themselves. Instead of questioning whether you fit in, focus on developing your skills and consistently delivering strong performance, and let that be the measure of your place in the field.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is navigating a male-dominated environment where women often have to work harder to prove credibility and be taken seriously. At the same time, it’s an opportunity to stand out through performance, break barriers, and help create more inclusive spaces for those who come after me.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My religious values are very important to me, and they guide how I show up in both my work and personal life. I also place a strong emphasis on basic morals—being a good person, staying true to my word, and helping others whenever I can.
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