As we head into 2010, more and more women are becoming doctors, lawyers, CPA’s and politicians.  However, science and technology are still fields where men continue to outnumber the women.  I work for a government agency within the Department of Navy that employs approximately 2,200 scientists and engineers.   Female engineers and scientists make up only 11% of our technical workforce.  When I graduated college in 1991, 12% of my graduating class of engineers was female.  And, according to the National Science Foundation, only 18% of all undergraduate engineering degrees awarded in 2007 were awarded to women. 

In my 19 year career as an electrical engineer with the US Navy, I have successfully participated in and led many shipboard design and installation projects,  not only working with the men in my organization but dealing with either all or predominately male crews on board Navy ships.  My experience has given me significant insight on how to be successful in a male dominated career field.  Some of this insight includes:

Be a team player.
Most jobs and projects involve working on a team.  Working on a team helps build trust and respect and also requires strong communication and listening skills.  It’s important to voice your opinions, but to also respect the opinions of your teammates.  If your job requires travel or if the guys like to get together after work, be sure to occasionally join them to help build a rapport.

Maximize your strengths.
Frequently, women in technical fields feel the need to “prove themselves” to their co-workers.  However, everyone has strengths and weaknesses.  By maximizing your strengths and working on what you are good at, you will be happier at the end of the day and you’ll do a better job. 

Don’t be intimidated by challenges. 
A difficult task or project may seem overwhelming at first.  Keep trying until you get the results or answer you’re looking for.  Don’t panic when there is a problem and don’t be afraid to ask questions.  Take a step back and determine what you need to do to resolve the issue, and then follow through.  Working through challenging situations will earn respect from your co-workers, clients and, in my case, the Commanding Officer or Chief Engineer of Navy ships.

Keep your emotions in check.
Women tend to be more emotional than men.  It’s important to learn to handle emotional situations properly even when things don’t seem to be going your way or when you encounter a frustrating situation.  Take a deep breath or go for a short walk to clear your head, and then re-evaluate the situation.  

Dress professionally.  
Dressing professionally will assist in earning respect.  Even if your office is casual, refrain from wearing jeans with holes in them, revealing clothes, tank tops, and flip flops.  If you look and behave like a trained and well groomed professional, you will win respect from your co-workers and clients.