Dr. Terri Helmlinger Ratcliff, Iota
By Joanna Barrett, Epsilon Epsilon
Dr. Terri Helmlinger Ratcliff, a 1971 initiate of Alpha Sigma Tau, has taken an impressive role in the world of engineering since her college years at Emporia State University (formerly known as Kansas State Teacher’s College).
In 2003, after a 69-year history of male presidents, Terri became the first female president of the National Society of Professional Engineers. In this role, Terri presided over the national operation of the most prestigious organization of professional engineers. In her one-year tenure, she organized and launched new initiatives and broke down the barrier for female presidents to come.
Terri holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering from North Carolina State University, earned an M.B.A. from Duke University as a Fuqua Scholar, and her Ph.D. is in public administration. Today Terri is the Assistant Vice Chancellor of Extension, Engagement, and Economic Development at North Carolina State University and Executive Director of North Carolina’s State’s Industrial Extension Service.
Terri looks back and recalls how Alpha Sigma Tau played a significant role in her life.
How has Alpha Sigma Tau influenced you?
My experience at AST was my first genuine experience in shared leadership. I was astounded at the abilities and the expansive capacity of my chapter (Iota) – it came from true shared leadership. All talents were recognized and appreciated, and different people took on leadership, depending on the needs of the issue at hand. Most importantly, everyone’s attitudes were devoted to the chapter – our personal success was not achieved unless each of us succeeded at our sorority responsibilities. Alpha Sigma Tau is my exemplar model of functional organizations.
I grew up in a family of four girls, so becoming a part of a sorority life was a natural and comforting. I gained a great support network of young women. It taught me the value of synergy – strong women who appreciate each other’s strengths and who encourage each other in their endeavors can achieve nearly anything.
Why did you become an engineer?
I was captivated by the NASA success of the 60’s and 70’s. When I transferred to NC State University (where a prominent engineering college existed), I got interested in pursuing that captivation.
Tell be about the National Society of Professional Engineers.
It is the only organization that serves professional engineers, regardless of discipline or choice of practice. It has affiliates in all 50 states, DC, and Puerto Rico. The state societies work most closely with the licensing boards in their states as engineering licensure is according to individual state or jurisdiction law.
Describe your involvement with the Society.
I started working in committees at the local chapter level, got tapped for leadership there that then exposed me to the state society, got tapped for state leadership, which then exposed me to the national organization. I made a name for myself in efforts that involved organizational change or transformation.
Were you consciously aware at the time that you were breaking major barriers by become the first female president?
Yes, but I did not want that to be the reason I was elected.
Are you still involved with this Society?
As Past President, I am looked upon as a statesman. I am asked to serve on task forces on a fairly regular basis, particularly in the state society. Four years ago, I was appointed by our Governor to our state’s licensure board. I have found that my background serving in the society serves me very well in this capacity.
