Written by: Cara McGuinness
At McMaster EcoCAR, STEM education and innovation thrive when individuals bring unique perspectives and skills together. Our team members distinguish themselves through their dedication and expertise, taking on challenges, driving critical projects, and mentoring others. Today, we want to highlight some of these outstanding individuals who contribute meaningfully to our team’s initiatives, goals, and values—not only through their technical work but also through their commitment to our team’s collaborative community.
Meet our Members: Women in STEM Who Drive Change
Let’s hear from some of the members on our team, highlighting the impact EcoCAR has made on them as women in this dynamic and evolving field:
Emily Perica: CAVs Automatic Intersection Navigation Feature Lead
“I started on the Connected and Automated Vehicle (CAV) subteam completely out of my comfort zone, with no prior knowledge of anything related to cars in general. I’ve since advanced to a leadership position as the Automatic Intersection Navigation feature lead, a role where I’ve had the opportunity to explore my interests in V2X technology and contribute directly to CAV deliverables. EcoCAR has shaped my engineering skills, instilled confidence as a leader, and strengthened my commitment to innovative technology. This experience has not only advanced my career but also inspired me to mentor young women looking to follow a similar path.”
Mina Nematian Doost: CAVs Feature Lead
“EcoCAR has provided me with the platform to raise my voice, build connections, and grow both personally and professionally. I am proud to have made significant contributions to my team, helping to shape not only my own vision but also the collective vision of those around me. One of the milestones I am most proud of is stepping up to lead a team within CAVs, which is an experience that has been both empowering and deeply rewarding.”
Emma Martino: SDI Vehicle Refinement & Inspection Lead
“I started on McMaster EcoCAR as a shy engineering student, content to learn by observing the work being done by the team around me. The senior members were able to bring me out of my shell and provided invaluable mentorship to me. From teaching technical knowledge like designing half shafts, to leadership skills like effective communication, The McMaster EcoCAR team has helped transform me into an aspiring engineer and leader. Stepping into a leadership role myself, I only hope I can provide the same mentorship and camaraderie to students entering the program now.”
Laura Giron Bedoya: SDI High Voltage Systems Lead
“When I first joined EcoCAR four years ago as a general electrical member, I spent my time observing, learning, and contributing to small tasks under the guidance of a mentor. Over time, I stepped into a leadership role, overseeing the high voltage systems in the vehicle and guiding other students passionate about this project. Although I wasn’t initially a “car person,” I discovered a love for the advanced vehicle technology and realized the value of hands-on experience in critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. I can confidently say that joining EcoCAR has been one of the best decisions for my life. Because of this competition, I feel more confident than I ever have to go into the workforce. Through EcoCAR I’ve also found my love for hardware design and have plans to pursue a master’s degree. The friendships I’ve made, the skills I’ve gained, and the joys of working on something I love have made this experience feel like winning the lottery. To any woman considering a career in STEM, I say go for it.
STEMpowerment and Beyond
Launched in Year 2 of the Competition, McMaster EcoCAR’s “STEMpowerment” initiative was founded with the goal of highlighting the work and involvement of women in engineering and their abounding skills and impactful contributions. Since this program’s genesis, McMaster EcoCAR has hosted events in collaboration with the McMaster Women in Engineering Society (WiE) to host panels amplifying its members achievements and career development, rooted in mentorship. In Year 3 of the competition, McMaster EcoCAR is eager to rehost a panel with the same goal– broadening our connections with organizations interested in augmenting Women in STEM within the McMaster Community and beyond.
