From Building Blocks to Blueprints: An Insider Interview for Engineering Week
- Science, Naturally!
- 9 hours ago
- 4 min read
Calling all parents of tiny tinkerers! This past Sunday marked the start of one of the biggest STEM celebrations of the year: National Engineering Week! In the United States, February 22–28 recognizes engineers of all kinds—civil, chemical, mechanical, electrical, and more—and celebrates their discoveries and innovations that have shaped our world. From the bridges we cross to the clean water we rely on and the technologies that keep us connected, engineering touches nearly every part of our daily lives.
To spotlight the week, we at Science, Naturally! invited civil engineer Kira Harrison to our blog to share a behind-the-scenes look at her career. In her interview, Kira shares the inside scoop on what her job is really like, reveals how she discovered her passion for engineering, and offers advice for kids excited about designing, building, and solving real-world problems. Let’s dive in!
Q: What first inspired you to want to become an engineer?
A: Growing up, I loved puzzles, brain-games, and building intricate structures with LEGO bricks. I was always drawn to activities that challenged me to think critically and create something from scratch. My family later introduced me to civil engineering, and once I realized how limitless the field was, I was hooked. The idea that I could help design cities, strengthen communities, and make a positive, lasting impact on people’s lives truly excited me!
Q: Who are some female engineers that you look up to?
A: I’ve always looked up to Mae Jemison. She was a chemical engineer and also the first Black woman to become an astronaut. I also greatly admire Katherine Johnson, whose groundbreaking work at NASA helped send astronauts into orbit and safely to the moon. You might recognize her story from the featured film, Hidden Figures!
Most of all, my mom, Joycelyn Harrison, has always been my biggest inspiration. She’s a chemical engineer who worked at NASA, and growing up, I loved hearing about her research and accomplishments. Watching her passion for science and innovation first hand made engineering feel both exciting and attainable.
Q: In your words, what is engineering, and what does it mean to you?
A: At its core, engineering is about problem-solving—finding creative, innovative solutions to real-world challenges. I love that engineering combines imagination with action. You can work on exciting projects like designing skyscrapers or developing rockets, but you can also make a direct, meaningful difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s designing water systems to remove harmful lead pipes or improving city infrastructure to address food deserts, the impact of engineering is tangible. You can see and feel the change you help create.
Q: What skills does an engineer need to have?
A: Engineers need to be creative thinkers and strong team players! Solving complex global challenges requires looking at problems from new perspectives and thinking outside the box. Collaboration is also key. Great ideas often come from working together and learning from others. Passion is essential, too. Engineering projects can be demanding and take years to complete, so perseverance and genuine curiosity help engineers push through obstacles and turn ambitious ideas into successful solutions.
Engineering is more than a career—it’s also a way of observing, creating, and improving the world around us. As we celebrate National Engineering Week, we hope Kira’s story inspires the little learners in your life to stay curious, embrace challenges, and imagine the many ways they can make a difference.
For those eager to discover even more trailblazing role models, our book Women in Engineering by Mary Wissinger offers an inspiring look at the female engineers throughout history who have shaped—and continue to shape—the world through innovation and perseverance. Spark your child’s imagination and read along to meet Electrical and Aerospace Engineer Sandra Cauffman, who worked at NASA and helped design and build satellites that gather data about space and our planet. Or hop into a time machine and blast into the past to meet Mechanical Engineer Huang Daopo, who built the world’s first spinning wheel—500 years ahead of her time!
Whether it starts with a puzzle, a set of LEGO bricks, or a powerful role model, the path to being an engineer is universally paved with curiosity, passion, and a drive to help others.
This week, let’s encourage children everywhere to think bigger, tinker bolder, and let their STEM adventures unfold from whatever curiosity sets them in motion.
Meet the book that inspired this post:
Women in EngineeringExplore engineering through the eyes of a spunky, curious girl whose questions spark engaging, scientifically accurate conversations. Along the way, meet six determined women—from ancient times to the modern day—whose imagination and innovations have shaped history! Covering civil, biomedical, aerospace engineering, and more, these inspiring stories show how one person’s ideas can leave a lasting impact. The fourth installment in the Science Wide Open series, Women in Engineering is designed to spark creativity and encourage bold problem-solving in kids. |
