Ana Torres-Vazquez - Research Fellow, EPA

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I first became interested in the weather when I was five years old and Hurricane Georges made landfall in Puerto Rico. This interest quickly became a passion and led me to study meteorology. Unfortunately, by the time I was ready for college, there were no meteorology programs in Puerto Rico, so I instead decided to get a Bachelor's degree in physics at the University of Puerto Rico. Why physics? Because physics is at the core of atmospheric sciences and meteorology and I knew that understanding physics would help me better understand the weather. After completing my degree in physics, I decided to pursue a Master's Degree in atmospheric sciences at the North Carolina State University, where I would have the opportunity to study hurricanes and climate change alongside great scientists and professors.

While the initial spark to my career had to do with hurricanes, nowadays I am hard at work trying to improve air quality in the United States. I currently work as a Research Fellow for the Office of Research and Development at the US Environmental Protection Agency. As a Research Fellow, my main goal is to add to our understanding of how the weather can impact air quality and to look for ways to improve scientists' ability to predict the weather and pollution events in the United States.

Why is diversity in STEM important?

Because the questions and problems tackled by STEM are universal, and impact everybody regardless of race and gender, but the STEM workforce is still mostly white and male. By bringing diversity to STEM, we give a voice to those who are impacted by these issues but have never had a seat at the table, and also bring in new perspectives and experiences that can help answer the problems in creative and innovative ways. Doing so also paves the way for the future, so that up-and-coming students can see people like them in the field and be inspired.

What is your greatest career accomplishment?

Completing my Master's Degree in Atmospheric Science.

What advice would you give to youth interested in your career field?

Never be afraid to challenge yourself, even if it seems like the challenge is too big and impossible. Always try! Additionally, never be afraid to reach out to the people who inspire you to ask for help and guidance.