“Don’t lose confidence in yourself. You are just as capable as everyone in your classroom and lab.”- Katherine Uffer, Software Test Engineer.
A Google search for summer engineering internships introduced Katherine Uffer, a Software Test Engineer Intern, to Persistent Systems (“Persistent”). Intrigued by the job description and the company’s unique NYC location, she quickly applied and began working at Persistent in May 2023. Extending her internship to May 2024, Katherine transitioned to a full-time position as a Software Test Engineer in September.
As an intern, Katherine got hands-on experience testing the MPU5’s GPS functionality, audio, and video capabilities. A detail-oriented person by nature, being a test engineer allows her to use her scientific training to help solve complex problems customers are facing and test new products before they reach the market.
“I enjoy how more rigorous testing goes on for a longer period,” said Uffer. “As a test engineer, I can see first-hand how a product evolves from when it’s in the development phase to when it’s released and how updates are continuously made throughout its lifespan.”
A computer science major at Manhattan College, Uffer received her Bachelor of Science in 2023 and continued her studies as a master’s student the following academic year. Receiving her master’s in computer science this past May, Uffer was the Kakos School of Arts and Sciences graduate valedictorian. Getting her industry start as a civilian contractor for the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Lakehurst, she gained first-hand experience with Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment networking hardware.
Transitioning from a civilian contractor to the defense industry was a natural switch for Uffer, as she learned of this common industry change from her engineering family. Excited to make this switch as an intern, Uffer knew, “As soon as I toured the office, learned of the technology, and met the people I would be working with every day, it was clear that Persistent was the right fit for me.”
While her days are mainly spent coding, Uffer has enjoyed building close relationships with fellow employees across different teams. Casual conversations over lunch led to a possible solution to a problem another engineer was facing.
Positive team dynamics are core to Persistent’s culture, which helped Uffer fully assimilate into the company, even as an intern. Proudly coming in third place at the company’s cake competition, Uffer enjoyed how interns were encouraged to participate in company bonding activities. The supportive environment, cross-team collaboration, and the autonomy given to her when undergoing her 2023 summer intern project contributed to her decision to stay on at Persistent full-time.
Despite women being historically underrepresented in STEM fields, this has never prevented her from pursuing her love of math and science. Her advice to other women seeking a career in engineering is to “not be afraid to dream big and not to allow yourself to fall victim to imposter syndrome. You are just as capable as anyone else.”
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