Shawna Fletcher was recently hired as the director for Women in Engineering for the Dwight Look College of Engineering at Texas A&M University. Fletcher previously served as the director of the Women in Engineering Program at The Ohio State University.
“Shawna’s role is integral in creating an inclusive environment, not only for Look College, but for the engineering discipline overall,” said Dr. Valerie Taylor, senior associate dean for academic affairs.
In this newly created role, Fletcher will initiate, develop and manage comprehensive activities and programs for the recruitment, retention, and success of women in engineering. Fletcher will collaborate with Dr. Sonia Garcia, senior director of Access and Inclusion, working towards the same goals of recruiting, retaining, and placing underrepresented engineering students.
“It is very exciting to have Shawna Fletcher aboard as the director of Women in Engineering,” said Garcia. “Shawna brings a wealth of experience, resources, and expertise to our college. We have already established a good working synergy and look forward to exceeding many goals with our concentrated efforts in recruiting a diverse student body.”
Fletcher believes women play an integral role in the field of engineering and is honored to serve in this new role.
“Diverse teams are important for the U.S. to remain competitive,” said Fletcher. “Many times, women are unaware of opportunities that exist. in engineering or how engineering fits into their career path. When women are included, companies are stronger and better solutions are created.”
Fletcher has over 17 years of experience in the engineering education arena. She previously worked for Arizona State University's Women in Applied Science and Engineering Program (1997–2007). She is a charter member of the Arizona Promoters of Applied Science in Education (APASE), a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization to promote robotics education. She currently serves on the Women in Engineering ProActive Network (WEPAN) board as liaison to the professional development committee. She has also been instrumental in creating new and innovative outreach and community partnership programs.
Fletcher holds Bachelor of Science degrees in microbiology and physiological psychology (emphasis in neuroscience) with minors in chemistry and women’s studies and a Master of Science degree in bioengineering from Arizona State University.