Learn why Dr. Draguna Vrabie loves her job as a control systems engineer at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.
October 18, 2019
minute read time
Dr. Draguna Vrabie is a control systems engineer with a passion for designing systems that learn from experience. Her work is at the intersection between control system theory and machine learning. As a chief scientist in optimization and control at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Dr. Vrabie uses dynamic systems theory and computer science to design adaptive control systems. Her current focus is on methodologies and algorithms for design and operation of high performance energy systems, as well as robust cyber-physical systems. Draguna holds a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington, and an M.E. and B.E. in Automatic Control and Computer Engineering from the Technical University “Gh. Asachi” in Iaşi, Romania.
What inspired you to work in STEM?
I was always good at math, and I also enjoyed coding. At university, at first I wanted to use that love of math to be an economist and then a computer scientist. I then took an introductory automatic control class. I learned that it is not only a fundamental discipline that underlies all the technology-driven conveniences in our lives, but it also brings together math and computer science. I had found my passion, and I got to work with robots!
What excites you about your work at the Energy Department?
Working at a national laboratory gives me room to explore and apply my expertise in new research areas. I get to learn firsthand about new technological advances, and to think a few years ahead about how to design control systems that can adapt and enable integration of new technology. I can do this by using computing technology and simulation-based testing, so I don’t have to wait for things to be built. I get to collaborate with and learn from world-class researchers in many science and engineering disciplines from across DOE’s national laboratories. We develop and integrate the large-scale, increasingly complex systems of tomorrow, to be robust, safe, and resilient. I can be bolder and take more risks, and work on real challenges to ensure our nation’s energy security.
How can our country engage more women, girls, and other underrepresented groups in STEM?
Growing up in Romania, no one ever told me that girls cannot be good at something. We can first stop biasing young minds to believe that some things are for girls and others are for boys. We can encourage everyone to do what they’re interested in, regardless of their gender.
Do you have tips you'd recommend for someone looking to enter your field of work?
Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity. So first, prepare and be disciplined in your pursuit. Ask for the oportunities you want and make a case for yourself. Find mentors to learn from.
When you have free time, what are your hobbies?
I love rock climbing, because when I am on rock, my mind has only one focus: to figure out what will be my next move. When I can’t rock climb, I often go hiking, and I have thouroughly enjoyed exploring our national parks. I also love watching all forms of ballet dancing.
Learn more about our programs & resources for women and girls in STEM at /women