Angelica Perzan, Sales Engineer, maxon
Angelica Perzan earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Roger Williams University and is currently enrolled at the University of Connecticut pursuing a Masters of Mechanical Engineering. Her professional career began in November 2014 at maxon as an Inside Sales Engineer within the Small Quantities Department focusing on new business development. In September 2017, she was promoted to an Outside Sales Engineer currently serving as the primary technical contact over a four-state territory.
Talk about the culture of your company. What makes it inclusive or supportive of women in engineering and automation?
I am fortunate that my employer is focused on the individual rather than his or her gender. maxon gives me and my male colleagues the same opportunities to be successful and reach new heights in our careers. When approaching my manager and maxon US’s CEO for their support and recommendation to pursue my Master’s in Engineering, their encouragement was unmatched. What sets maxon apart from others is mentorship. I directly attribute my progress to my colleagues’ commitment to ensure I was in an environment to succeed.
What first drew you to engineering and this industry?
My parents are my role models and the largest factors leading to my interest in engineering. Immigrating to the US from Poland in the 80s, they saw a land of opportunity. My mother, a licensed nurse in Poland, worked as a line operator at a factory until she went back to school to receive her license to practice in the US. Likewise, my father founded his own company within the first year residing in the US, without knowing the language. I was raised in a home where your passion is what drove your career, not your gender. I always enjoyed math, so my parents suggested I follow my father’s footsteps and pursue engineering. After my first engineering course in high school, I was hooked.
What career advice would you give to your younger self?
The best advice I would give to my younger self is to be confident and not worry about “embarrassing” yourself. Take the risk, ask the questions that pop into your mind, and do not let other people’s judgments hinder your growth.