Salay Stannard

Technical Sales Manager, Material Science Engineer, Joining Technologies, Inc., USA
Country of birth: USA

Educational background: MS, BS Material Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut, USA

Who or what inspired you to work in science/engineering?
My father has been my biggest supporter. I remember visiting his laboratories, discovering mazes of glassware and poring over collections of precious metals. I was hooked. He showed me science could be fun and exhilarating, together we've climbed glaciers, invented new materials, explored the world around us, and all the while he has been my biggest fan.

What are the primary responsibilities of your current job?
As the Technical Sales Manager for Joining Technologies, I am responsible for setting strategic goals for sales and implementing creative research strategies for laser welding, electron beam welding, and additive manufacturing. Whether it be joining together two components by welding, or adding a wear and corrosion resistance layer with laser additive manufacturing, having a sound understanding of material properties is key to working in the high-energy fusion and optics field.

What do you wish you had known when first starting out?
Cultivate your voice. Being able to express your opinion in science is your most valuable tool, and even more so when done with grace!

Do you have advice for young women considering a career in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics)?
To borrow from Gayle Hagler, "Go ahead and start breaking stuff!" Continue to challenge the laws of physics and mathematics, explore the world around you and don't be afraid to break a few things along the way!