Inspiring women of color to pursue STEM careers

When Sydney Hamilton was growing up in Plano, Texas, her parents encouraged her to leave her mark on the world. Little did she realize that she would one day return to the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area as a 3D-printed statue.

Hamilton, who actively promotes women in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering and math, recently was selected by the American Association for the Advancement of Science IF/THEN Ambassadorship to be represented in #IfThenSheCan — The Exhibit, a collection of more than 100 3D-printed life-size statues depicting female professionals and role models in STEM.

As part of the satellites team in El Segundo, California, Hamilton supports shop-floor build and integration as well as the development of satellite reflectors. “Satellites help keep the world connected,” Hamilton said. “Connectivity is more important than ever and I am truly proud to be a part of something bigger that impacts the entire world.”

Hamilton began her career at Boeing in 2014, immediately after graduating from Spelman College and the University of Michigan dual degree program with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and aerospace engineering, respectively. She started as a structural design engineer on the 767, 777 and 777X aircraft and then worked on the 767 and 777 wing repairs and 777X repair manual as an airplane service engineer. In 2019, she moved to Defense, Space & Security to work on advanced 3D designs as a mechanical systems engineer before joining the satellites team.

Hamilton is rapidly becoming a familiar face of Boeing satellites. She has been interviewed in multiple media outlets, including the CBS “Mission Unstoppable” TV show and Marie Claire magazine. She was featured in July as a virtual camp leader on the online “Curiosity Camp” show for GoldieBlox. She also has been featured in NPR’s “Wow in the World” Scientist Saturday feature for children, which covers science, technology and innovation.

When not building satellites or serving as an IF/THEN ambassador, Hamilton volunteers for civic and community organizations. She also has been actively involved and held leadership positions in Boeing Resource Groups, including the Boeing Leadership Association in Southern California, the Boeing Black Employees Association, Boeing Generations 2 Generations and the Southern California Volunteer Council.

Hamilton‘s advice to young women and others seeking a career in engineering: “Explore and ask questions, but don‘t think that you have to have it all figured out right now. Life is a journey. Take time to enjoy it.”