We continue to talk about girls in engineering and how it is possible to easily combine raising three children, defending a PhD thesis in powder metallurgy, and a love for teaching. In a new article, Tatyana Yevtukhova, Associate Professor of the Department of Technology and Teaching Methods at the Faculty of Engineering and Pedagogy, talks about the family dynasty of engineering teachers, the fear of "difficult" science, and the double qualification that saves you if you don't feel comfortable with a particular field.
The Belarusian National Technical University played a significant role in Tatyana Yevtukhova's life long before she chose her university.
My parents met and studied at the BNTU. I studied at a physics and mathematics-focused lyceum, went to engineering graphics classes at the 8th building, and had no doubts about choosing a university. BNTU is my life," Tatiana Evgenievna shared.
In 2010, Tatiana Yevtukhova graduated with honors from the Faculty of Engineering and Pedagogy with a degree in professional education (mechanical engineering). This was a recommendation from her parents, who are both graduates of the Faculty of Engineering and Pedagogy.
— I have a double qualification: it's difficult to decide after high school, but after graduating from the Institute of Physics and Technology, you can choose to become an engineer or a teacher, — said Tatiana Evgenievna.
After receiving her diploma, she immediately enrolled in a master's program in engineering (specializing in the processing of structural materials), and then pursued a postgraduate degree in powder metallurgy and composite materials.
After completing her studies, she realized that teaching was more appealing to her, and the master's program provided the necessary foundation for her professional growth, particularly at the university. I didn't change my perspective on pedagogy much, as my master's degree was in a technical field, and I viewed this period as a preparation for my future scientific career. During my studies, I was more interested in engineering disciplines than in pedagogy, so when it came to choosing a specialization for my postgraduate studies, I definitely opted for a technical field. As for "powder metallurgy," our department had and still has a strong "school" in this field. In my opinion, it is the most interesting technical specialization for a woman.
— What was the most difficult part of your postgraduate studies: the research work or the writing of the thesis?
— Each of these stages is an important step towards the defense of the thesis, and there are always difficulties, I cannot separate them. The most difficult thing for me was to return to postgraduate studies and continue working on the thesis after a five-year maternity leave. The support of my loved ones was especially important for me during this time.
Today, Tatiana Evgenievna works at the Faculty of Engineering and Pedagogy, Department of Technology and Teaching Methods.
— The transfer of knowledge and experience is the foundation of education, and competent young professionals who can perform their work with high quality are our future, the future of our country. The feeling of contributing to this future is a source of inspiration and happiness.
When asked if she would recommend pursuing a PhD, Tatiana Evgenievna's response was straightforward:
— Absolutely. The key is to find a topic that you enjoy and a good supervisor.
For Tatiana Evtukhova, the quality of education is the most valuable aspect of a leading technical university in the country. The secret to maintaining interest in work is simple: three children.
"I haven't experienced burnout yet. I've taken maternity leave, and I have three children. With such a large family, I don't have time to worry about burnout. Every time I return to work, I feel a surge of energy and inspiration," said Tatiana Yevtukhova.
— What would you wish for a high school girl who wants to enter the BNTU, but is afraid that engineering is too difficult and “not for her”?
— To enter the Faculty of Engineering and Pedagogy: if you can’t be an engineer, you can become a teacher, and vice versa!
The story of Tatiana Yevtukhova is another proof that an engineering university is suitable for everyone who has the main thing — the desire. It doesn't matter if you're a girl or a guy, if you're a future metallurgical scientist or a natural-born teacher. BNTU provides a solid foundation, dual qualifications, and the support of mentors. Sometimes, the "difficult" specialty turns out to be the most interesting, and family and work don't clash but complement each other.
