Rachel Carter Snoddy is changing the landscape for women in STEM
By: Sieanna Hart
As a full-time software engineer and part-time graduate student at The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), Rachel Carter Snoddy is redefining roles for women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Snoddy obtained her bachelor of science in computer science from Troy University in 2018. Being only one of three women in all her computer science classes, she faced challenges that ultimately changed the trajectory of her life.
“One day, I went to a professor of mine for help and instead he looked me straight in the eyes and told me I would never be anything in computer science because I was a woman.”
Instead of feeling discouraged, Snoddy says, “This lit a fire in me, to not only succeed, but to support and encourage young girls to challenge the stigma surrounding women in STEM.”
After graduating, Snoddy became a software test engineer. She currently works for The Boeing Company in the payload software integration and verification test group for the International Space Station, helping to ensure its success.
While working full-time, she is also involved in the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) organization. Recognized for her impact and contributions to the engineering community, Snoddy recently received the SWE Distinguished New Engineer Award.
“Thousands of women from all over the world apply to this award every year, and only 20 are selected. I was honored and am so grateful to have been selected and see all my hard work pay off.”
Through SWE, Snoddy also volunteers at First ROBOTICS and is the North Alabama section’s data officer, where she engages with community outreach and fosters curiosity in future engineers and leaders.
Through her work and volunteer experience as a leader, Snoddy decided to pursue a master of business administration (MBA) with a concentration in engineer management at UAH in January 2023. She is the first in her family to attend college and will be the first to graduate with a master’s degree.
“I hope one day to be an engineering manager and be a support system for new engineers and let them know that they can be successful in the field. I also want to encourage young women to believe in themselves and understand that they are capable of achieving anything they set their mind to.”
Throughout her journey, Snoddy has been loved and supported by her family, especially her husband, Coty. Snoddy is excited to graduate with her Professional MBA, start a family and take in every new opportunity that comes her way.