International Women in Engineering Day
June 23, 2025
At Comet, curiosity fuels innovation – and that curiosity thrives when people from all backgrounds bring their unique perspectives to the table. On this International Women in Engineering Day, we’re spotlighting three engineers who are not only helping us build smarter, more resilient technology, but also inspiring the next generation of problem-solvers. Their journeys, shaped by curiosity, determination, and a love for the unknown, remind us of what’s possible when everyone has a seat at the engineering table.
Alexandra Schulz
Data Project Manager
Industrial X-ray Modules Division
Flamatt, Switzerland
Turning data into uptime
Meet Alexandra, who transforms X-ray system data into meaningful insights – helping customers prevent costly breakdowns before they happen.
“The most fulfilling part of my job is when a customer tells us our work helped them avoid costly downtime,” she shares.
Her focus is on outcomes, not gender. “It’s like being a left-handed chef,” she says. “No one’s watching your hands – they just care that the food comes out right.”
When she’s not solving data challenges, Alexandra is training for a marathon. “Some of my best ideas show up when my legs go numb and my brain starts solving problems from work I’ve been stuck on.”
She credits her colleagues at Comet for continuously shaping her thinking. “I get to work with some truly brilliant people. They influence me every day – though I won’t name names, they’d enjoy that too much.”
Her message to young women in engineering:
“Keep asking smart questions and solving the hard stuff. No one cares what you look like when you’re the one who turns chaos into a working solution.”
Lyn Phan
Senior RF Validation Engineer
Plasma Control Technologies Division
San Jose, United States
Growing with curiosity
With over 20 years of experience in RF and test automation, Lyn’s career is rooted in a lifelong passion for learning.
“I’ve always loved math. That naturally led me to software engineering in college,” she says.
Early in her career, Lyn was often the only woman in the room. “Now I’m seeing more and more women in engineering roles, and that’s inspiring.”
At Comet, she’s found more than just a job – she’s found a community. “Coworkers have become like family. It’s a friendly, supportive environment where curiosity is encouraged.”
Outside the lab, Lyn explores the world through travel, often diving deep into the cultural history of the places she visits.
Her message to women in engineering:
“Be open to learning. Surround yourself with people who support your growth. The industry is changing, and we need more diverse voices to shape it.”
Neethu Maliakal
Test Engineer
Industrial X-ray Modules Division
Flamatt, Switzerland
Finding joy in complexity
For Neethu, no two days are the same. One day she’s thinking like a software developer, the next like an electrical or mechanical engineer.
“That’s what I love most – the interdisciplinary nature of the work keeps me learning every day.”
Her fascination with how engineering blends logic and creativity sparked her career path. “You’re building things, solving problems, and always pushing toward better, more sustainable solutions.”
Though she’s had overwhelmingly positive experiences in the field, she notes that some are still surprised to learn she’s an engineer. “There just aren’t that many women in this space yet. But that’s changing.”
She’s been shaped by a variety of mentors and colleagues. “Different people influence the way I think – whether it’s their curiosity, their leadership, or how they approach challenges.”
Her advice to the next generation:
“Go for it! Engineering is tough but incredibly rewarding. Don’t be intimidated by the title – there’s a place for you here.”
Could this be you?
Let’s engineer together.
We are looking for ambitious and passionate people who want to collaborate to make a difference.
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