Taboada took the helm this Spring
For the first time in the over 85-year history of the university’s College of Engineering, a female is now serving as Dean.
Dr. Heidi A. Taboada was hired as the Dean of the Frank H. Dotterweich College of Engineering, and took the helm at the beginning of the Spring semester.
She is making history. Women’s History Month was started in 1987, to celebrate women who have contributed to history, culture and society. It is observed in march to recognize women who have greatly contributed to history.
“I am very humbled and it is an honor to serve as the first female Dean of the College of Engineering. I am very proud to lead a college with such standing tradition in academic excellence,” she said.
Taboada said she always wanted to be an engineer. Stating the influence of her father and his fellow coworkers led her to pursue a degree in engineering.
“There are many reasons but perhaps the strongest are, the lack of role models, especially in leadership positions, and the gender stereotypes in the different STEM fields,” she said.
Taboada believes that any individual, especially a female, can pursue a degree in engineering, saying it is possible if you set your mind to it and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
“Work hard, be focused and follow your dreams, and do not let someone else’s opinion derail you from achieving your dreams and never hesitate to ask for help when you need it. There will always be people who are willing to help,” Taboada said.
Taboada received her bachelor’s degree in Biochemical Engineering from Instituto Tecnologico de Zacatepec and her Ph.D in Industrial & Systems Engineering from Rutgers University.
“Dr. Taboada has promoted the College of Engineering by expressing a true and enthusiastic interest in the College of Engineering. She asks questions, truly listens and is excited to share that information with others not only locally but statewide. She is a great promoter of the College, and I can truly tell she is invested in the success of the College and its students,” Doctoral in Engineering Corando Gallegos said.
In more than 85 years, the College of Engineering has had men as Dean.
“I think that she is looking to identify our strengths and see how we build on those strengths and also what should our new vision moving forward be because there’s just so much potential here and I think that she is trying to help shape that potential,” Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering Interim Chair Dr. Breanna Bailey said.
Bailey is currently the only female chair in the College of Engineering.
“I am currently interim chair for civil and architectural engineering and I am the only woman in an administrative role other than for the Dean so it’s very nice to have two of us now; it’s about time,” Bailey said.
As Taboada settles into this position she looks forward to the possibility of leading change to impact transformation and to impact students’ lives and the reward it will be.