Women of WSMR Leading the Way: Lupita Soliz

Note: This interview was conducted in celebration of Women’s History Month.

Lupita Soliz: Computer Scientist

(Technical Director Action Officer)

How long have you been working at WSMR and what was your starting job?

“I have been working at WSMR for 28 years. My starting job as an intern programmer contractor for Drone Formation Control System (DFCS) was a stepping stone into the federal service fifteen years later.”

What is it like to be a female in your profession?

“Highly technical females in my profession, while still a very elite group, is growing rapidly with digital natives who are proving to be firecrackers. It is fascinating to watch.”

Have you faced any challenges as a female in your profession?

“Every day is a rewarding challenge at WSMR. After the first ten years, I stopped saying, ‘Nothing will surprise me today’, because every day at WSMR, inevitably, something will surprise me.”

Do you think it is easier to be a woman in the workplace now than in years past?

“To some degree, absolutely. Previous generations have opened doors for my generation and we need to continue opening different doors for the generation coming up behind us.”

What advice do you have for women coming into the workforce at WSMR?

“Be willing to listen, stay trainable, stay relevant.”

What is the best advice you've ever received?

“Question everything.”

What contributions do you feel you have made that will help other women coming into the workforce?

“It is sometimes necessary to swim upstream in order to bring awareness to the status quo.

I would like to think the times I have had to swim upstream was recognized for a just cause

and that my mentorship helped develop noble leaders. Being a role model to my daughter, her peers and brethren alike is a legacy I hope will follow me someday.”