SIE Names Marla Peterson 2019 Alumna of the Year
UA systems and industrial engineering department recognizes Honeywell engineer for decades of promoting inclusivity and supporting fellow Wildcats.
Marla Peterson, center, accepts her SIE Alumni of the Year Award from department Head Young-Jun Son, far left. Past award winners (from left to right) Ted Landis, Cindy Klingberg and Herb Burton join her.
When Marla Peterson from the University of Arizona's Class of 1983 went to get traveler's checks for her first business trip, the clerk insisted the young engineer was just an assistant and told her that the person actually traveling would have to pick up the checks.
“That was the first time it was basically stated to my face: Someone was telling me that I wasn’t an engineer because I’m a woman,” she said. “It really made me think, ‘OK, I’ve got to do something about this.’”
Peterson has indeed dedicated herself to change, and to supporting future engineers, particularly at her alma mater. The UA Department of Systems and Industrial Engineering recognized Peterson with its annual Alumni of the Year Award at the department’s pre-commencement ceremony May 9.
“I am deeply humbled, surprised and honored by this award, because I know a lot of SIE alumni who have done a lot to support the university, as well as done really amazing things in their careers,” said Peterson, who also received the 2006 UA Bear Down Award.
All three past award winners were on hand to honor her: Herb Burton of the Class of 1960, Cindy Klingberg of the Class of 1988 and Ted Landis of the Class of 1990.
“Marla’s contributions have been exceptional,” said department Head Young-Jun Son. “She’s been a mentor and role model for our students, supported student chapters and projects, and served on the SIE industry partner board over two decades.”
Agent for Change and Champion for Diversity
Peterson started her career 37 years ago with Garrett Turbine Engine Co., now Honeywell, and thought she’d stay for a few years and then move on to something else. She’s been with the aerospace, engineering and technology company ever since.
