Welcome to ’10 Questions with Root3 Labs’, a Root3 series where we take some time and give the spotlight to one of our team members to share a little about themselves, their work, and a little advice for other engineers. This month’s edition features Mechanical Engineer Christina Krueger.
Christina is a graduate of the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and is a licensed commercial sUAV pilot and drone builder. While in school, Christina traveled to Suma Ahenkro, Ghana on UMCP’s Engineers without Borders team to install solar panels on a boarding school. She also worked in the BioInspired Advanced Manufacturing Lab with Dr. Ryan Sochol creating 3D printed microscale structures to study cell mechanobiology. Outside of work, Christina enjoys training for marathons, hiking, skiing, crafting, and bringing her puppy to work.
Ms. Krueger…
1. What led you to this career?
I have always loved math and art. Engineering is a unique combination of analysis and creativity.
2. What’s one professional skill you’re currently working on?
Staying mindful of project budgets and scopes of work despite my excitement and desire to become fully emersed in them.
3. If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick?
Messaging, Calendar, Browser. I primarily use my phone for communication, scheduling, and looking up random facts. Honorable mentions include a camera (for pictures of my dog), Overlook (the Maryland library app for audiobooks), and Spotify (for jams of course).
4. When working remotely, how do you manage your day?
For me, working from home resembles working from the office minus the commute and the easy access to workshop tools. I am fortunate not to have any distractions working from home (except for my dog, but he is a welcome distraction). I try to lay out my schedule 1 week in advance to help myself stay on track. I typically sandwich my day with walking my dog or a run. This isn’t any different from pre-quarantine, but it’s become significantly more important since it’s often the only time I leave my house.
5. Do you prefer coffee, tea, or both? What is your favorite?
It depends on my mood. In general, I prefer iced coffee in the summer and hot tea in the winter.
6. What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit of?
Taking time to relax. I love activities and efficiency, but I am realizing it is also important to take time to do nothing.
7. What’s something you’ve done, but will never do again?
If the opportunity presented itself I would do it again, but I am content only bungee jumping once in my life.
8. Would you rather be able to play 10 different instruments beautifully or speak 10 different languages fluently?
Speak 10 languages fluently.
9. If you could eliminate one weakness or limitation in your life, what would it be?
The physical distance between me and my friends. Technology helps with long-distance friendships, but it’s not the same.
10. Any advice for aspiring engineers?
Never lose your desire to learn.
Thank You to Christina Krueger for participating in this month’s ’10 Questions with Root3 Labs’ series and stay tuned for more interviews with other employees with Root3 Labs.
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