Chris H.’s dream is to become an engineer in the aerospace industry. “Ever since my first plane journey at 12 years old, I have been fascinated with flying,” this New Face of Tech winner says. “It was astonishing to me that a piece of machinery so heavy could take off and soar thousands of feet into the sky and, as I grew up and studied the physics and math behind it in college, I became even more interested in aeronautics!” Chris is currently studying computer engineering at The College of New Jersey.

What does being the New Face of Tech mean to you?

It means showing girls that they can succeed in their chosen career paths. It also means showing girls that there are young women — like me and the other New Face of Tech winners — who share their passion for technology and will support them on their journey to achieving their dreams.

Women are underrepresented in STEAM. How can we change this?

A study funded by the National Science Foundation in 2018 showed that girls and boys do equally well in science and math in high school, but only a fraction of those girls go on to study STEM in college — and even fewer end up in STEM fields after graduation. To prevent this drop-off, I think women who are currently studying or working in STEAM need to act as mentors and actively support and encourage girls who are considering these fields of study.

What are some of the challenges you have faced along the way?

Some of the challenges I have faced along the way include pursuing a degree in a very male-dominated field and financial difficulties in funding my projects.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

I stay motivated by reminding myself how far I’ve come and how fortunate I am to have the opportunity to pursue the career I want.

How will funding from the 1,000 Dreams Fund and HARMAN help you reach your goals?

It allows me to buy the equipment I need to continue working on projects related to aerospace engineering. This will hopefully prove to potential employers my dedication to and passion for aeronautics.