S2 E6: Eradicating Gender Bias with Mechanic Angeline de Luca
There is an unconscious and inherent bias against women that exists in our society that results in women getting passed over for opportunities and advancements on simply the basis of gender.
In this episode, I’m joined by Angeline Deluca. She is a power generation technician at a major diesel engine and power systems manufacturer. After completing a two-year tech program, she entered the Cummins Engine Program where she graduated with a 4.0, being the top-scoring student in 14 of her classes, and obtained the sought-after Roger Penske Student of the Year scholarship.
I had to admit that when I was introduced to Angeline as a possible guest for The 6%, the field of mechanics hadn’t even crossed my mind. This is exactly what makes her perfect for this show.
We talk about her motivations and challenges, encounters she’s had with contemptuous customers and coworkers, how she’s able to push through and rise from trials, what she would say to young women who aspire to be in her field, and many more.
If you want to catch Angeline, she will be in one of her favorite events in her now-homeland Oregon at the Oregon Tradeswomen’s Career Fair. The second day is open to the public. Angeline will be there to teach how to work with engines together with other women in working in carpentry, electrical, roofing, and etc. More information about the fair can be found here.
Episode Highlights:
- Angeline’s childhood and upbringing
- What inspired her to pursue this profession
- Her father’s initial reaction to her career choice
- People who supported her ambition growing up
- How she handles sexist feedback from customers
- Her internal and external approach to dismissive coworkers
- How she controls her anger and frustration
- The different certifications and levels for mechanics
- The mentors and cheerleaders in her journey
- Why women need both male and female allies and advocates
- The importance of He-ForShe movement in male-dominated arenas
- What keeps her going despite the challenges
- Confidence and passion: Angeline’s recipe for success
- The value of having outlets for anger
- Why doing what you love is worth all the trials
- How earning your accomplishments makes you more resilient
- Countless harassment she experienced in school
- Stories about coworkers who didn’t want her in the job
- Her relocation and how she’s happier where she works now
- Her public speaking opportunities
- Advice she would give to women who want to get in her field
About the guest:
Angeline Deluca is a generator technician at Cummins Sales and Service in Portland Oregon.
She acquired her Associate’s degree in Diesel Mechanics Technology from the Universal Technical Institute of Arizone Inc.
She’s also completed the Ford Accelerated Training program along with the Cummins Engines program where she was an Awarded Student of the Course in 14 courses.
Aside from her mechanic background, she’s also done some public speaking and mentoring in the past, being present on podcasts and sharing with audiences what it’s like being in the field.
Angeline’s path wasn’t an easy one but it was worth it.
From the beginning, she faced objection by some members of her family upon opening up about her career choice.
She’s also met so many employers, clients, classmates, and workmates who were against having a woman working with them.
In spite of all of these, she’s able to continue doing what she loves with the help of her loved ones, solid supporters and her confidence and belief in her own skills.
Now, Angeline educates other women interested in her field. She imparts her knowledge and wisdom in her passion and urges them to not give up because the prize awaits them.
Connect with Angeline:
Resources mentioned:
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