Sandra Peters
Sandra Peters is a seasoned Electrical Engineer serving as a civilian with the United States Air Force at the 412th Test Wing, Edwards Air Force Base, where she is the lead engineer for design in the 812th Aircraft Instrumentation Test Squadron. In this role, she manages multiple projects simultaneously, overseeing the design and implementation of modifications on aircraft used for testing purposes. As the only female member of her small design team, Sandra has distinguished herself as a skilled leader and problem-solver, leveraging her expertise to advance mission-critical testing operations. With nine years of engineering experience, including over four and a half years at Edwards AFB, she combines technical acumen with a deep commitment to excellence in aerospace engineering.
Sandra’s journey into engineering was unconventional. She began college as a nursing major but found her true passion after taking an Introduction to Engineering course at the encouragement of a family friend. The course ignited her love for problem-solving and design, prompting her to switch her career path. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from California State University, Bakersfield, and has built a career marked by both technical proficiency and innovation. Her early focus on mastering engineering fundamentals has evolved into a broader interest in leadership and management, as she enjoys not only designing solutions but also collaborating with and mentoring others to solve interpersonal and team challenges.
Beyond her technical role, Sandra is deeply committed to education and professional development. She serves as an Adjunct Professor at Bakersfield College, teaching AutoCAD Electrical and inspiring the next generation of engineers. She is also Vice President of the IEEE CSUB Student Branch, where she promotes student engagement and growth in engineering and technology. Fluent in Spanish, Sandra brings cultural insight alongside her technical expertise, and her dedication to mentorship, collaboration, and innovation makes her a valued leader in both aerospace and academic communities.
• California State University, Bakersfield - BS, Electrical and Electronics Engineering
• California State University, Bakersfield - BSN
• IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) - Former Treasurer and Vice President of local chapter
• Guest speaker for Society of Women Engineers events
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my passion for what I do and my desire to inspire other women in engineering. The passion is what drives you through those hard courses and difficult moments in your career. I don't necessarily think I'm doing anything groundbreaking, but I hope my presence just being there allows other girls to see that you can also take up space in this field. I'm the only electrical engineer on my team, and there are only a few of us women in my office. We all kind of band together and have the same conversations about being in a male-dominated field. I hope some other girl gets to see me and gets to be inspired. That's what keeps me going and what I consider my most notable achievement - being a presence that shows young women they belong in engineering and aerospace.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important value to me is helping others and paying it forward. When I was younger in college, I wanted to meet people to see how I could get ahead, but now my mindset has shifted to seeing who I can help. I like to pay forward any way that I can, even if it's just a conversation that gets you thinking. I want to help and guide others the same way that I was helped and guided in the career that I'm currently in. I also value passion in my work - it's what drives me through the hard moments. I love talking to people and solving interpersonal problems, which is why I'm gravitating toward management. And I value being a presence for other women in my field, hoping that my being there allows other girls to see that they can also take up space in engineering and aerospace.