Caren Odero, Leading with Passion and Purpose in Engineering and Beyond

At Egerton University, the name Caren Odero Sharon resonates not just as a fifth-year electrical engineering student but as an embodiment of dedication, versatility, and leadership. The outgoing Director of Finance at Egerton University Students Association (EUSA), Caren’s journey is a testament to her resilience and passion for service and innovation in STEM.

“Leadership has always been something I’m drawn to,” she shares. “I believe in leaving every place better than I found it.” Caren’s leadership journey has been both extensive and impressive, marked by roles that demonstrate her commitment to serving her fellow students. She began her journey as a class representative, a humble yet impactful role that introduced her to the dynamics of student leadership. Building on this experience, she soon became Treasurer of the Electrical and Electronic Engineering Club (EUTEEC) and Treasurer of the Engineering Students Association. She later advanced to represent her peers as Congress Faculty of Engineering and Technology, a position that helped her develop a broader perspective on university governance.

Today, the outgoing Director of Finance at EUSA, Caren has been overseeing critical financial matters impacting students, making sure resources are managed responsibly and transparently. “Service delivery is my commitment,” she says, crediting her strong work ethic to her father, a senior accountant at the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) and former Hon. Treasurer of Harambee Sacco. “Watching my father balance his career and commitment to community service has inspired me. I believe I am a born leader and that this path is helping me enrich my leadership skills.”

 

Beyond leadership, Caren thrives in the challenging field of electrical engineering, with specific interests in avionics and the energy sector. Her love for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) runs deep, and she’s a staunch advocate for women in engineering. “The field is incredibly diverse, and I encourage more young women to join STEM. The potential is limitless.”

 

Her passion for engineering has led her to exciting hands-on experiences, including industrial attachments with Kenya Airways and Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) Geothermal. “The exposure at Kenya Airways was eye-opening,” Caren recalls. “I was able to experience avionics firsthand, which fueled my interest in aviation technology.” Similarly, her time at KenGen introduced her to the complexities of the energy sector. “Geothermal engineering is fascinating, and the learning experience there has been amazing.”

 

While her primary focus is on academics and leadership, Caren is a multifaceted individual. With skills that span well beyond engineering, she enjoys braiding hair, beadwork, basket weaving, cooking, and baking. “People are often surprised when they learn about my creative side,” she laughs. “But I believe in being well-rounded. Life is about exploring your full potential.”

 

Caren also finds relaxation in swimming and playing chess, activities she sees as essential for maintaining balance. She encourages her peers to develop hobbies and interests outside their primary pursuits, emphasizing the importance of holistic growth.

 

A proud alumnus of Shepherds Junior School and Asumbi Girls High School, Caren attributes her early education as foundational in shaping her ambitions. As she nears the completion of her engineering degree, she remains driven by her mantra of making a positive impact. Her vision extends beyond personal success to empowering her community, uplifting fellow students, and inspiring young women to dream big.

 

With her unwavering dedication, Caren Odero Sharon is undoubtedly a rising star at Egerton University and a force to watch in Kenya’s engineering and leadership landscape.