Meet Isabel Rodriguez

How did you learn about PDXWIT?

I’d first heard of PDXWIT while I was a physics undergrad at Portland State University, but I didn’t attend my first event until June of 2019. At that time, I had just finished a very challenging first year in graduate school at Oregon State where I was navigating being an “only” in my department. When I saw that PDXWIT was holding a mixer for women of color, I got together a group of friends––then made some more! I was grateful to have found a safe space, and it was the first time I felt comfortable claiming a place, and envisioning a future, in tech.

Background on your career? Did you intend this career path?

I’m an (astro)physicist and data analyst by training who has a passion for understanding (and disrupting) oppressive power structures. After I graduated with my Master’s this past March, I knew that no matter what role I ended up in, data storytelling and transforming STEM culture would be critical pieces of my career. I was referred to a contractor role with PDXWIT by my friend and former colleague Rihana Mungin, and after just a few weeks I knew I had found the right path and place for me. I’ll officially be joining the crew as Communications Specialist on October 18th! I could not be more thrilled to help shape the future of tech as part of this incredible community.   

What’s an activity you pursue in your free time?

Since it’s October, I’d be remiss if I didn’t name watching horror films as one of my favorite pastimes! If the film has aliens, paranormal activity, and/or is set in space, I’m all about it.