During my studies, I struggled with confidence and staying true to myself, often feeling pressured by societal expectations that defined success in rigid terms. As a transgender individual, pursuing a career in engineering felt like a bold choice in a society where many people saw us primarily in stereotypical roles. Despite these challenges, I remained determined to break free from these constraints.My journey began with an internship at IM Digitals, where I learned the intricacies of manufacturing. I was introduced to quality inspection, tack timing, and strategies to minimize downtime, although my time there was limited. This opportunity taught me the importance of precision and efficiency in meeting customer demands.The following year, I interned at JFA Constructions, a local firm, where I gained experience in creating Bills of Materials (BOM), understanding bidding processes, and inspecting electrical installations. Despite the challenges of working in a predominantly male environment, where I often felt underestimated, I remained focused and committed to my tasks.Graduating from college and passing the Philippines Electrical Board Exam on my first attempt was a significant boost to my confidence.Shortly after, I joined Standard Units Supply Corp. as a Junior Sales Engineer, where I provided customer quotations, conducted site visits, and worked on projects to improve operational efficiency. Unfortunately, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I was laid off. However, this setback led to a new opportunity through a friend’s referral to Sunpower Corporation.A former Technical Support Engineer at Sunpower Corporation, where I was part of the Product Support Engineering Team. My role involved remote troubleshooting of solar products, working with Product Engineers, and learning new products such as Tesla and Enphase systems. Throughout my career, I have learned that self-belief and resilience are crucial. The opinions of others are less important than staying true to oneself and embracing one's unique path. My journey has reinforced that regardless of societal expectations or stereotypes, confidence and authenticity are key to achieving personal and professional success.