Dr. Ruben Mamani

Dr. Ruben Mamani is an Aymara Indian (indigenous Indian) and the son of a former bishop of the Methodist Church. His undergraduate degree was at the University of Tennessee – Knoxville in Chemical Engineering. His masters and Doctorate in Environmental Engineering is from the University of Connecticut.

Dr. Mamani left a lucrative job in Mexico City to come home and participate in the building up of his nation. He heard about Engineers In Action and asked to join our team. Dr. Mamani took a 90% pay cut (from $3,500/mo to $400/mo.) to work for EIA. Dr. Mamani hopes to teach at the University in La Paz in addition to his work with EIA, which will be additional income for him and provide EIA with great contacts at the University.

During his job interview with Engineers in Action Dr. Mamani said, “I see this as an opportunity to serve; to help my community. Yes I will be making less money, but it is more important work.

“I’ve always wanted to be a missionary; but not like my father who is a pastor. I wanted to be a missionary who would improve the lives of our communities. With EWB, I will feel like I have accomplished something important.

“In the US it is easy to find a job; but the job may not be meaningful. I asked myself, what does God want you to do? That is what makes me want to come home to Bolivia and work with Engineers In Action.”