Natalie Panek

Natalie Panek is a Canadian working in aerospace engineering. She works in the robotics and automation division of the space technology company MDA.

Early life and education Panek grew up in Calgary, Alberta. She competed in the North American Solar Challenge in 2005. Panek completed a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Calgary in 2007. She earned a masters in aerospace engineering at the University of Toronto in 2009. In summer 2008, she worked at Goddard Space Flight Center.

Public engagement In 2012, Panek created the STEM mentorship blog The Panek Room, which offers career advice to girls and connects them mentors. She spoke at the 2016 Women of Influence and 2017 Girl Talk Empowerment conferences.

Alongside her work and advocacy, Panek enjoys backpacking.

Awards and honours 2013 - University of Calgary Graduate of the Last Decade Award

2015 - Flare magazine's 30 under 30

2016 - Wings Magazine Top 20 under 40