Milhouse Celebrates National Engineers Week

The National Society of Professional Engineers recently promoted “Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day” (February 25, 2016) and asked members to share activities with girls that showcase the creativity and possibilities of engineering. A few Milhouse Engineering & Construction, Inc. employees and their daughters recently discussed how they feel about girls in the field, traditionally dominated by men with a penchant for pipes and precision.

Engineering a Legacy

Growing up, Melanie Milhouse needed no introduction to Engineering.

The daughter of Milhouse President/CEO Wilbur C. Milhouse III, Melanie was raised with a man so deeply involved in the industry, she knew she would impact the field in some way.

A recent grad school graduate, Melanie now works with Organizational Sciences at Milhouse, where she studies processes and systems as she rotates through each department. Like an Engineer, she looks at how everything works together. “How do I make it (all) tick,” she said.

Now, mom to a six-month-old girl Sophie, Melanie said she will encourage her little one to pursue Engineering or another leg on the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) table.

“Introducing girls to Engineering is vital in diversifying the industry, creating new dynamics and ideas. It demonstrates to the world that women have the mental and physical capabilities to do what men have done and more!”

Engineers Keep it Moving

Malki Brown is Director of Asset Management for Milhouse.

He introduced his daughter, Titilayo, (Tee-Tee-Lye-Oh), to Engineering years ago to expand her mind.

“I want her to see all disciplines and not limit herself to something she thinks girls should do,’’ Malki recently said.

Though 13-year-old Titilayo, Yoruba for Joy Forever, doesn’t think she wants to be an Engineer, she recognizes their importance in the world – especially Construction Engineers who oversee the construction of infrastructure. Titilayo pointed to street repairs, building and bridge renovations.

“If we didn’t have Engineers, the world would break down. Engineers keep everything running smoothly,’’ she said.

Hard Hats and High Heels

Milhouse Associate Electrical Engineer Andraya Parrish, EIT, says her 2 ½ year old daughter, Aubrie, began showing all the qualities of an Engineer early on, as most toddlers do.

“She’s naturally analytical and inquisitive. She asks a lot of questions and is very independent in her thinking and behavior. She’s constantly trying to figure out how things work.“

Andraya, said she hopes her daughter’s natural curiosity will flourish and motivate her to challenge traditional boundaries.

Andraya, who always had an affinity for math, science, and physics, was inspired to be an Engineer after meeting a female geotechnical Engineer, she said. “Young girls need to know there are no limitations. They can be detail oriented, think critically, explore a construction site, or work in a lab; all while wearing nail polish and heels if they choose.”