MESA Impact Story

Mónica Tejeda – California MESA

Civil Engineer, Water/Wastewater
Tetra Tech

Mónica Tejeda’s journey through STEM is a testament to resilience, passion, and a commitment to empowering underrepresented voices.

She was born to immigrant parents from Jalisco, Mexico, In middle school, Mónica’s father was deported to Mexico without due process, a challenging experience that deeply impacted her adolescence and impacted her academics.

Mónica encountered MESA at Hawthorne Middle School where she first discovered her love for STEM. Her early involvement in MESA provided her with a foundation in teamwork, troubleshooting, and resilience over the course of numerous regional and state competitions. These foundational skills would pave the way for her eventual journey through graduate school.

As a first-generation college student, Monica’s path to higher education began at El Camino College. Once again she found a supportive home in MESA. As part of MESA’s programming, Mónica was encouraged to continue her studies at the university level. This journey led her to California State University, Long Beach where she earned a double Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and Applied Mathematics. Her educational journey continued further with a Master’s in Civil Engineering (Environmental and Water Resources Program) and the near completion of a second Master’s in Applied Mathematics – both at CSULB.

Mónica dedicates her achievements to her late father, who inspired her resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Throughout her academic and professional journey, Mónica’s identity as a Latina woman has fueled her drive to succeed. In college, Monica was a member of SHPE (Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers) receiving two scholarships from the organization. Today she mentors aspiring engineers and advocates for diversity in STEM, aiming to empower women and underrepresented groups. She is actively involved with the CSU Long Beach MESA Center. She worked there as a tutor and continues to be involved by having given keynote speeches and volunteering her personal time at monthly Saturday Academies.

Mónica’s career journey included a pivotal internship at the Orange County Water District’s R&D department, where she gained hands-on experience in water treatment engineering. Her roles in construction and water treatment underscore her commitment to environmental sustainability and community well-being. She currently serves as Civil Engineer, Water/Wastewater at Tetra Tech.

Outside of her career, Mónica finds solace in running, playing the piano, and cherishing moments with loved ones. Her journey is a testament to perseverance, embracing imperfections, and transforming personal challenges into opportunities for growth and advocacy.

As she continues to pave the way in STEM and advocate for diversity, Mónica Tejeda remains steadfast in her mission to inspire future generations and create lasting change in her community and beyond. Her greatest inspiration begins at home with her daughter – who she encourages to believe in limitless possibilities.

Learn more about California MESA