[wdhilliard]

I have been told many times that I do not look like an engineer because I do not present as a nerdy anime type. I can say with absolute certainty that this perception has caused harm because they believe that my interest in science and computers is purely superficial/for profit, and thus believe that I must not be as skilled as the dungeons and dragons people. This happened when I was in school and continues to happen 20 years later. The upside is I probably get more speaking and social invites and opportunities. The downside is that they chose me because they think I am less skilled, and therefore am more suited to bridge the gap between engineering and non-technical roles.