Sheila Lopez, PMP

I’m Diné (Navajo) and Mexican from Winslow, AZ. I earned my B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Northern Arizona University and have spent more than 20 years building a career in Engineering and Program Management. Alongside my professional journey, I’ve always carried a deep passion for advocacy and creating space for others.

I’m a lifetime member and former board member of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), where I’ve worked to help more Indigenous students find their way into STEM. In 2011, I founded a PFLAG chapter (PFLAG is the nation’s largest family and ally organization supporting family and friends who are 2SLGBTQ+) which focused on Native American families. It was the only Native American-focused chapter in the U.S. and in 2019 I launched Arizona’s first Two-Spirit Powwow, which has grown into an annual celebration.

At the heart of everything I do is the belief that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and included. I share my story of overcoming challenges, becoming an engineer, and building community because I want others to know they belong too.