Throughout Women's History Month, DB&B continues to spotlight women in our community who demonstrate how they break the bias. This week, we spoke to Alyson Berry. She is a Project Engineer for the New York Power Authority currently working towards receiving a PhD in Biomedical Engineering. 

What steps do you take to "break the bias" as a woman working in a male-dominated industry?

I always go in with confidence to every meeting, field visit, etc. because I know that I belong. And so in doing this, I know that I’m worth being there and I’m not going to allow myself to be intimidated. 

What motivates you to advocate for women’s empowerment?

So, what motivates me to advocate for women is that there just aren’t enough of us. We aren’t supported. And yet when we are given the opportunities, we more often than not excel. So I want to be there to provide mentors and to provide role models so that there are people like myself for the younger generation to look up to.

What advice do you have for women looking to advance their careers?

So… it’s very hard. It’s exhausting honestly. Running up against obstacles that we watch our male colleagues just step right over, right? And so I just want to say, don’t give up. You are smart. You are strong. And I promise you will succeed.

In honor of Women’s History Month, who is an influential woman who has made an impact on your life?

For women role models, honestly it would have to be the women in my family. Honestly,https://careers.nypa.gov/ they are amazing, and they taught me from a young age to just be proud of who I am, to stand up for myself, and to work hard for my dreams because anything I dream I can achieve. So thank you to all those women.

Learn more about the New York Power Authority here.