Dr. Ada Barlatt

Mindset Engineer & Researcher on "Feeling Stuck" and "Getting Unstuck" | Founder, Happy Mindset

Combining engineering insights, research, and empathy to help people understand why they feel stuck and how to move forward

Media

Biography

Dr. Ada Y. Barlatt, PhD, PEng, is a former University of Waterloo Engineering Professor, award-winning researcher and entrepreneur with a background in engineering, systems and data analysis. Through Happy Mindset, Barlatt helps high-achievers and professionals identify and shift the hidden mindset constraints that keep them stuck—using a blend of analytical thinking, systems design, and empathy she calls Mindset Engineering.

In addition to her work with individuals and groups, Barlatt leads the Feeling Stuck Survey Project, which includes the Quarterly Feeling Stuck Snapshot and the Annual State of Feeling Stuck Report. These research efforts explore where people most commonly feel stuck, what helps them move forward, and how mindset interventions can be designed to support real-world change. Her goal is to create practical tools and insights that help people move toward their goals with clarity and confidence.

Expertise

  • Technology
  • Engineering
  • Career and life transitions
  • Systems thinking for personal growth and decision-making
  • Affirmations
  • Mindset and personal growth
  • Mindset constraints
  • app development
  • mindfulness
  • Gratitude
  • Time saving with work email
  • Technology tips to save time

Education/Éducation

  • Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
    Industrial and Systems Engineering
    B.S., 2004
  • University of Michigan
    Industrial and Operations Engineering
    M.S.E, 2006
  • University of Michigan
    Industrial and Operations Engineering
    Ph.D., 2009