Antoinette Adduchio, a 2020 graduate of Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS), has forged an inspiring path from her small-town beginnings to a promising career in engineering. Now working as a Research and Development Lab Technician II at Dragonfly Energy in Reno, she reflects on her journey with gratitude, determination, and a strong sense of purpose.
During her time at PVHS, Antoinette built a strong foundation of leadership, curiosity, and a drive to explore diverse opportunities. She recalls fond memories of attending student council conferences at the zone and state levels, where she presented innovative ideas and mentored younger participants in small groups. As the student body social director during her senior year, she took charge of organizing assemblies and fostering school spirit, leaving a lasting impact on her peers and the school community.
Antoinette’s high school experience was marked by an impressive variety of extracurricular activities. She played volleyball and basketball in her freshman year, ran track until her junior year, and participated in the National Junior Honor Society and the science club. She was also dual-enrolled in college courses during her senior year, demonstrating her commitment to academics. Summers were equally productive as she worked as a lifeguard at the town pool, a role she loved so much that she returned as the manager during her first summer break from college. “I made sure to give everything a chance,” she shared. “I can’t say I didn’t try it.”
Her involvement in 4-H further shaped her interests and career ambitions. Through summer camps at Lake Tahoe, she was introduced to STEM fields by mentors who enthusiastically shared their knowledge. One female engineer left a particularly strong impression, inspiring Antoinette to pursue a career in engineering. “Without seeing her and the passion she had for it, I don’t know if I would have followed this path,” she said. “I am forever thankful for 4-H and the opportunities it provided for me.”
After graduating from PVHS, Antoinette enrolled at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) to pursue a degree in Biomedical Engineering. Beginning her college journey in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges. Classes were fully online, and she had to adapt to a nontraditional freshman experience. Despite these hurdles, Antoinette stayed focused on her goals. As a first-generation college student, she faced the additional challenge of navigating the complexities of higher education largely on her own. She supported herself financially, working nearly full-time while also taking summer and winter courses to stay on track.
Antoinette credits programs like TRiO, which supports first-generation college students, and CREATE, a resource for engineering students, for helping her succeed. These programs provided her with scholarships and valuable tools to navigate college life. She also found comfort in the company of Pahrump friends who had moved to Reno, forming a support network that helped her adapt to her new environment.
Her dedication and perseverance paid off when she graduated with a degree in Biomedical Engineering. One of her proudest milestones was participating in the Order of the Engineer ceremony, where she pledged to uphold ethical and responsible engineering practices. She wears the accompanying ring on her dominant hand’s pinky as a constant reminder of her commitment to her profession.
Now at the beginning of her career, Antoinette recognizes the challenges she has faced as a woman in a male-dominated field. She notes that proving her worth required resilience, but she refused to let obstacles deter her. “I know my worth, and I was not willing to say no to becoming an engineer,” she affirmed. Her mother, whom she describes as her biggest supporter and best friend, played a crucial role in building her confidence and determination. “I don’t think I would have the confidence to be who I am without her,” she said. “She is truly my rock in life.”
Outside of work, Antoinette has rediscovered her passion for creative pursuits, including sewing and crocheting. She first explored these hobbies as a child, showcasing her handmade clothing and crafts at local fairs. During her time at UNR, her projects were even featured at university open houses. She also enjoys attending concerts and spending weekends with loved ones, including her long-term boyfriend, Sam, their dachshund Frankie, and two cats, Noodle and Tangie.
Balancing her professional responsibilities with her personal interests has been a learning process. She emphasizes the importance of “leaving work at the door” and focusing on quality time with family and friends. By establishing a structured schedule, she has been able to maintain a fulfilling work-life balance. “I really try to focus on the time I have at home with the people I love rather than work,” she explained.
Looking ahead, Antoinette is eager to continue growing in her career, developing her technical expertise, and becoming a role model for young women in STEM. “I want to make my name known and take chances in my career,” she said, expressing her commitment to inspiring the next generation of innovators.
Throughout her journey, Antoinette has remained deeply appreciative of her roots in Pahrump. She credits her teachers and the community for playing a significant role in her success. “Living in a small town like Pahrump is truly a unique experience, and I am so happy I was a part of it,” she shared. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing every opportunity, valuing support systems, and believing in one’s ability to achieve greatness.
