Emily Burnett is the Manager of Global Programs for the Society of Women Engineers. No stranger to the non-profit sector, Emily started her career as a grassroots community development leader in Ecuador where she managed volunteer programs across the country. Most recently, she worked for an international community service association leading the development of young adult programs in more than 100 different countries.
When she’s not in the office, Emily likes to spend time outside – whether that’s working in the garden, going to the beach, or camping out. One of her bucket list items is hiking the 4-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu in Peru.
Who is your role model and why?
I draw a lot of inspiration from Michelle Obama. She exhibits incredible ambition, resilience, and a deep commitment to doing the right thing even in the face of adversity.
Where are you from/where were you raised?
I grew up in Naperville, IL, a suburb of Chicago.
What is your favorite sports team?
Da Bulls!
What is your go-to karaoke song?
Sweet Caroline, but I’ll sing almost anything at karaoke! I love humiliating myself.
If you could eat one thing the rest of your life, what would it be?
Grilled cheese
What is the best piece of professional advice you’ve received?
I love the quote, “We rise by lifting others.” There are so many opportunities to practice this in the workplace.
What is your favorite place in the world?
Ecuador
What movie or TV quote are you most likely to use in conversation?
Anything by Chris Farley
What was the inspiration that made you get into your field?
There isn’t a single event or inspiration that drove me to this field. I think it’s a result of the values that were instilled in me growing up and the passions that I have developed as an adult. Working for SWE is the perfect opportunity for me to act on my passion for supporting and empowering women across the globe.
What is your favorite thing about your job?
I love learning new things so having the opportunity to work closely with SWE members who are leaders and innovators in their field is very exciting to me.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Jennifer Scott.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Dolores Mannella.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Vanessa Velasco.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Rosalie Kapanga.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Monica Cutrone.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Carol Polakowski.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Darcy Andersen.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Sinead Gaffney.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Camryn Wagner.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Trish Kolar.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Angelica Beresheim.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Rebecca Wheeler.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Honna Eichler George.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Briana Aviles.
Read our SWE Staff Spotlight on Valerie Bland.
