Ursula Monaghan '17

I graduated from Swarthmore in 2017, with a B.S. in general engineering, and a CS minor. After Swarthmore, I joined Turner Engineering Corporation (Tenco) in New York City, where I work as an electrical engineer in wayside train control and railcar electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) design and testing.

In my current role, I get to do lots of electrical simulation work, as well as planning, performing, and reporting on qualification tests for railcars, railcar equipment, and energy storage. I also prepare project proposals and budgets, and occasionally try my hand at project management. Working at an engineering consulting company has allowed me to delve into the technical and analytical work, while also gaining an understanding of the “big picture” in my industry.

While at Swarthmore I studied natural systems for wastewater and storm water treatment with Professor McGarity. Swarthmore taught me the engineering basics, but more importantly it taught me how to learn. I definitely felt like a small fish at Swat and am still grateful I got to be around so many bright and hardworking students, professors, and staff while I was a student.

Outside of work, I’m active in the Society of Women Engineers New York chapter (SWE-NY), my neighborhood community garden, and rec field hockey, soccer, and biking.