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Lauren, a dedicated FIRST® Regional Volunteer Coordinator in North Texas, proves that with passion, hard work, and STEAM skills developed through FIRST, you can truly #GetAnywhere. An alum of FIRST® Tech Challenge Team 8204, Blue Machine, Lauren learned that there is a lot more than meets the eye when it comes to STEAM, and there are always opportunities to discover new things.
Now a Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Engineer for new construction and renovation projects, Lauren utilizes problem-solving skills, teamwork, collaboration, and innovation in her everyday life to help buildings function how they are supposed to. Dedicated to giving back to FIRST, Lauren spends her free time as a FIRST Tech Challenge judge and volunteer where she helps to inspire the next generation of innovators just like her.
Keep reading to learn more about Lauren; she is living proof that by honing your skills through FIRST, you will have the tools you need to build a successful future in STEAM.
Lauren volunteering at a FIRST event in North Texas
FIRST Staff: Can you share some information about your current role at Purdy-McGuire?
Lauren: I design Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) for new construction and renovation projects. This includes K-12, higher education, office buildings, and commercial work. I specialize in HVAC design but have been learning more about plumbing design in recent years.
FIRST Staff: What is your favorite part of your current role as an MEP Engineer at Purdy-McGuire, a full-service engineering firm located in Dallas, Texas?
Lauren: The variety of projects I get to work on is definitely my favorite part of my current role. One day I could be designing the HVAC system for a new school, and the next I am working on the plumbing layout for a commercial office building. It keeps things interesting and challenging, and I am constantly learning new things. I also enjoy seeing the tangible results of my work when a building is completed and knowing I contributed to its functionality and efficiency.
FIRST Staff: What is the hardest part of your job?
Lauren: The hardest part of my job can be managing tight deadlines and unexpected challenges that arise during a project. Sometimes, unforeseen issues with existing structures, or coordination problems with other disciplines, require quick thinking and problem-solving under pressure. It is also challenging to balance innovative design with budget constraints and client expectations. Ensuring all systems integrate seamlessly and meet complex building codes requires meticulous attention to detail and continuous learning.
FIRST Staff: How do you use STEAM skills in your everyday work?
Lauren: In my everyday work, STEAM skills are fundamental. My role as a MEP Engineer relies heavily on applying principles of physics for mechanical systems, electrical engineering for power distribution, and plumbing design for water and waste.
Beyond the technical aspects, problem-solving, critical thinking, and design skills are essential for finding efficient and effective solutions. In my personal life, I use these skills for home improvement projects, understanding how things work, and even for creative hobbies that involve planning and execution. 
Lauren as a student with her FIRST Robotics Team
FIRST Staff: Can you share your thoughts on the impact of your personal/professional work in STEAM?
Lauren: Through my work in STEAM, I am directly contributing to the creation of safe, comfortable, and sustainable environments. By designing efficient MEP systems, I help reduce energy consumption and environmental impact, which is crucial for a greener future. I also play a part in creating functional spaces for education, healthcare, and commerce, directly impacting communities.
Professionally, I mentor younger engineers and interns, hoping to inspire the next generation in STEAM and make a difference by sharing my knowledge and passion for the field.
FIRST Staff: Who is a “Person of STEAM” who inspires you?
Lauren: A "Person of STEAM" who inspires me is Dr. Katherine Johnson. As a mathematician at NASA, she calculated the flight trajectories that made missions like John Glenn’s orbit and the Apollo 11 moon landing possible. Her story, highlighted in the movie “Hidden Figures,” brought long-overdue recognition to the critical contributions of Black women in the space race. Despite the barriers Dr. Johnson faced, she persevered and proved how powerful mathematics and determination can be.
Katherine Johnson’s legacy reminds me that STEAM is not only about numbers and science, but also about breaking boundaries and inspiring others to dream bigger. 
Katherine Johnson, Mathematician at NASA
FIRST Staff: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Lauren: If I could give one piece of advice to my younger self, it would be to embrace every opportunity to learn and experiment, even if it seems daunting or outside your comfort zone. Do not be afraid to ask questions, make mistakes, or seek out mentors. The journey in STEAM is continuous learning, and every challenge is a chance to grow. Also, nurture your curiosity and passion, as they will be your greatest drivers when faced with complex problems.
FIRST Staff: Do you have a message you want to share for students who are participating in FIRST today?
Lauren: To students competing in FIRST today, my message is to take every moment to learn, to grow, and to challenge yourself. FIRST is more than a competition; it is a community where you can discover your passion, make lifelong friends, and gain skills that will work for you well into the future. Do not be afraid to try new things, to question things, or to fail, because those moments most often lead to the best learning.
Remember, though, that the robot is just a fraction of the process—the real value comes in what you build through collaboration, creativity, and tenacity along the way. Stay curious, keep on moving, and understand that what you are creating today is going to inspire tomorrow's leaders and innovators.
Are you a person of STEAM? Share your story with #PeopleofSTEAM on social media or send us your story at marketing@firstinspires.org. 
Lauren as a student with her FIRST Robotics Team