Ep 383: Engineers in the LGBTQ+ Community Discuss Belonging and Allyship

How can engineers create spaces where people feel comfortable bringing their whole selves to class and work? In this episode, Emma Craig, FY27 lead of the SWE LGBTQ+ and Allies Affinity Group, and Mikayla Moody, FY27 lead-elect of the SWE LGBTQ+ and Allies Affinity Group, share how their experiences as engineers in the LGBTQ+ community have shaped their paths through academia and industry. Mikayla explains how feeling like an outsider in STEM shapes their teaching style now as a professor — including the simple steps they take at the start of each semester to help students feel a sense of belonging. Emma reflects on how finding supportive communities in college and graduate school, including in Greek Life, gave her the confidence to grow as an engineer, advocate, and leader. In conversation with Karen Horting, executive director and CEO of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), they share practical advice for becoming a better ally to the LGBTQ+ community, including why asking questions, listening carefully, and being willing to learn from mistakes can matter more than getting everything right. Get involved with the SWE LGBTQ+ and Allies Affinity Group at https://affinitygroups.swe.org/lgbtq-and-allies/ — The award-winning Diverse podcast from the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) is now Global Voices in Engineering! With nearly 45,000 members in 90+ countries around the world (and growing), we wanted a new name that perfectly captures what both SWE and the podcast are all about: bringing together engineering stories from around the world, because every engineer has a story. SWE is the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women and allies in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit https://membership.swe.org