Women in CFD with Anna Mir

In an industry propelled by the winds of innovation and the currents of technology, few stories are as compelling and insightful as Anna Mir's. Her recent experience as a key member of the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) crew for the INEOS team in the prestigious America's Cup highlights her dedication to her field. Anna's journey is a testament to the power of passion, education, and the relentless pursuit of one’s interests. I had the pleasure of discussing with Anna her professional journey, her perspectives on women in STEM, and her recommendations for those seeking to enter the field of CFD.

Tell us something about yourself.

I'm from Barcelona, Spain. My life has been a fascinating blend of engineering and adventure, fueled by a childhood spent sailing the Mediterranean waters. Growing up, the sea was my playground and classroom, teaching me lessons in resilience, navigation, and the beauty of nature's engineering. This unique combination of passions has guided my career path and shaped my personal interests. As an engineer, I approach problems with precision and creativity, while my love for adventure drives me to explore innovative solutions and push the boundaries of what's possible.

Can you share your educational background and what sparked your interest in CFD?

My academic journey commenced at the Polytechnic University of Catalunya, where I embarked on a path in aerospace engineering. This initial phase of my education was deeply rooted in theoretical knowledge, a characteristic trait of Spanish degrees, which sparked my interest in seeking practical applications of the concepts I was learning. This quest for a hands-on approach led me to pursue a master’s degree in CFD at Cranfield University in the UK. It was in the concluding stages of my undergraduate program that my fascination with CFD began to take shape, primarily attracted by its unique amalgamation of theoretical rigor and practical problem-solving capabilities.

Anna sailing with her family

Can you describe the trajectory of your career so far?

I began my professional journey at NUMECA, now Cadence, at their Belgium office. Initially, my role involved engaging comprehensively with CFD tools, covering a broad range of applications from analyzing heat transfer processes to studying the external aerodynamics of automobiles. However, the deep-seated passion I've always harbored for sailing gradually directed my career towards a more specialized domain within CFD, focusing on naval architecture and marine engineering.

My most recent experience has been with a small, dedicated team of four members within the INEOS team. Our primary mission as part of the INEOS CFD team was to develop the usability of CFD tools for designers working in high-speed sailing. By enhancing the user-friendliness of these tools, we aimed to empower designers to optimize their designs more efficiently, even without extensive knowledge of CFD. This endeavor aligns with my personal and professional goals, allowing me to contribute significantly to the field I am passionate about.

Anna, as one of the speakers at a round table discussion about the role of engineering in the America’s cup

What would you be doing if not working in CFD?

Had I not discovered the captivating world of CFD, I likely would have pursued a career that seamlessly combines my love for the ocean with my strong interest in technology—perhaps something in marine conservation. The sea has always played a significant role in my life; there's just something about its vast, enigmatic depths and the way it endlessly stretches out that consistently draws me in.

What are some of your favorite hobbies?

Sailing is hands down my favorite thing to do, a love that my dad passed down to me when I was just a little kid. Besides being out on the water, I like to code and create tools that make complicated tasks easier, whether for work or personal projects.

Anna rock climbing in Montserrat, near Barcelona

What are your thoughts on women in technical fields?

The landscape for women in technical fields is gradually evolving, yet the road to genuine fairness remains a work in progress. To continue driving innovation, it is essential for us to support and actively encourage women to pursue careers in STEM. By breaking down entrenched stereotypes and creating nurturing environments, we create a future where everyone has the chance to succeed and thrive.

Three cents from Anna Mir for anyone considering a career in CFD

 ⇒ Read our previous Women in CFD posts.

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