On International Women in Engineering Day, we celebrated women who help shape the future of our company and the energy industry.
Across Tampa Electric’s operations, female engineers advance innovation, strengthen our electric reliability and deliver for our customers every day.
Meet four Tampa Electric women whose perspectives and expertise help power meaningful progress.
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Jaclyn Meddleton holds degrees in mechanical engineering and engineering management from the University of South Florida. Her early fascination with how things work – especially space travel – initially led her to dream of becoming an astronaut, and she ultimately pursued engineering.
“It’s funny how plans change and now I’m in the utility industry instead,” she said. “Not exactly NASA, but still driven by the same curiosity.”
Today, Jaclyn manages an energy storage system project at our Big Bend Power Station. She’s helping guide the transition to longer-duration battery systems that will further strengthen grid reliability, resiliency and efficiency.
“As an engineer, it is especially meaningful to see these systems move from concept to construction,” she said. “They will have a lasting positive impact on the grid and for our customers.”
Her advice to early-career engineers: be intentional, set priorities and advocate for yourself.
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Shelly Rivera is a chemical engineer who works in our Renewable Control Center (RCC). Her interest in engineering was sparked in eighth grade during The Great American Teach-In, when a guest speaker showed her how the field blends innovation with real-world impact.
“What really stuck with me was his message that anyone willing to put in the effort and commitment could truly thrive in the field,” Shelly said.
Today, she’s helping shape the RCC’s work from the ground up with strategies to improve monitoring of Tampa Electric’s solar and battery energy storage assets.
“It’s incredibly fulfilling to contribute to solutions that elevate situational awareness, improve operational efficiency and strengthen electric reliability,” she said.
Her advice to aspiring engineers: stay curious, embrace continuous learning and don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone.
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Elena Vance has a background in chemical engineering and joined Tampa Electric as a University of South Florida student intern. Early in her career, she earned an MBA, combining technical and business expertise.
Her path took her from our Bayside Power Station to our resource planning and , where she helps schedule electricity generation to meet forecasted demand.
“Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to support many changes throughout the company,” she said. “I am grateful to have worked with amazing people in many different areas, and I look forward to the future.”
Her advice to aspiring engineers: stay confident in your training and remain open to learning.
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Shelly Whitworth has built a career that blends her natural strengths in math and science with a passion for the environment. Initially interested in marine biology, she discovered environmental engineering at the University of South Florida – an ideal intersection of problem-solving and environmental stewardship.
“Looking back, choosing engineering was one of the best decisions I ever made,” she said. “It opened the door to a career where I’ve been able to continuously learn, take on new challenges and contribute to projects that positively impact our communities and the environment.”
With more than 30 years in the field, Shelly now supports solar development efforts, collaborating with environmental teams to advance projects that balance innovation with responsible resource management. She’s seen renewable energy evolve from an emerging concept into a core part of Tampa Electric’s strategy.
“It has been incredibly rewarding to see how an idea that was once an emerging technology has grown into a significant part of our energy strategy,” she said.
Her advice to future engineers: trust your perspective, seek out mentors, and never stop learning.
Together, these four engineers – and many others like them – reflect the talent and dedication behind Tampa Electric’s progress – advancing innovation, reliability and a brighter energy future.