Ep 339: Stories of Visible and Invisible Disabilities in Engineering

What is it like to navigate STEM while living with a visible or invisible disability? In this episode, Haylee Mota, a recent engineering graduate who is blind, shares how she found her path to aerospace through robotics, hands-on research, and self-advocacy — overcoming barriers like inaccessible course materials. Angelie Vincent, a mid-career aerospace engineer living with autism, diabetes, and celiac disease, reflects on lessons learned from a late diagnosis, masking in the workplace, and the power of mentorship. In conversation with Jenevieve Surkin, lead of SWE’s DisAbility Inclusion Affinity Group (DIAG), hear how universities and workplaces can do better and why requesting accommodations is about creating equal access and opportunity. DIAG was formed to build a supportive, safe community for differently abled/disabled engineers, caregivers, and allies to network and develop themselves professionally. Get involved and find out about upcoming events at sites.swe.org/diag/. — The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting 50,000 members of all genders spanning 85 countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.