Anastasia Stoeva from Smart Solar: I grew up with engineers, and I know how important it is for someone to show you that you can succeed

Behind every engineering career there is a history, and sometimes it begins from childhood. For Anastasia Stoeva, her interest in tech began thanks to her family where engineering is a calling passed onto generations. Today, she has close to 10 years of professional experience and continues to develop her career as part of the Smart Energy Group team. In her conversation with us – as part of the “She is an engineer” project – Anastasia shared what motivates her to never stop learning, what projects have left her with the strongest impression and why she believes that engineering is a place for everyone with the knowledge, curiosity and willingness to create.

When did you decide that engineering is your calling?

I grew up in a family consisting of engineers. My grandmother, my mother and my grandfather are engineers.

What was the bravest decision you’ve taken in your professional career?

After close to 10 years working in a multinational company I decided to get out of my comfort zone and take on a new professional path. I left a secure job—where I had gained experience, achieved results, and felt confident—to join a company in the renewable energy sector.

What stereotype regarding women engineers would you like to see gone?

Regarding the claim that engineering is a "male profession": over the years, I have worked in teams where results never depended on gender, but rather on knowledge, preparation, and responsibility. Engineering requires logical thinking, persistence, a willingness to learn, and the ability to find solutions. These are qualities that have no gender. I believe that the more women choose engineering careers and share their experiences, the sooner this stereotype will become a thing of the past.

What project or success fills you with pride even to this day?

The projects that give me the most satisfaction are those that improve the lives of people.

Is there a woman engineer that inspires you?

Yes, there is. Although not an engineer by training but a brilliant mathematician, the woman who inspires me the most is Katherine Johnson.

Photo source: Smart Solar, ©Engineer BG via Canva.com