STEM SYNC: Recent Episodes
Krystle McClain
The STEM Sync Podcast uses the power of personal narratives to introduce listeners to opportunities and resources along the science, technology, engineering, and math pipeline to help increase the number of people of color in these fields. Every week we’ll have candid conversations as guests share their journeys to help you reach beyond your untapped potential connecting you to purpose. Become a part of the conversation by submitting questions and topics with an email to podcast@stemsync.net or messaging STEM Sync via your favorite social media platform. Now let's SYNC!
Surprise Prototypes! As I look at the date, I realize, wow, 2023 is right around the corner. Once we get through all the gift giving and good food eating, the calendar will flip as we start to wish everyone a Happy New Year. Then of course, social media will prompt us to answer the question: What’s your New Year’s resolution? As you ponder this question, I’d offer you add a goal to serve in a mentor or advisor in some capacity. In listening to Season 1 guests, an underlying thread is how wise guidance provided key support throughout their STEM education and career. As you know that is what STEM Sync is all about… leveraging the resource of a personal narrative to serve as encouragement along the STEM pipeline. Today’s bonus episode helps to drive this point. I am joined by Ms. Janet T. Phan whose focus is on paying forward her experience by helping raise awareness of the important role that mentoring can play, the elements and qualities of a good mentorship, and in connecting more girls with STEM mentors to increase women entering the field. My hope is that her story will convince you to add my suggested new year’s resolution. Just think, your one year of mentoring could have a lifetime of influence. Now let’s sync!
Janet T. Phan is the Founder and Executive Director of Thriving Elements, a nonprofit dedicated to creating access and opportunities for underserved, underrepresented girls with long-term, 1:1 mentorship in STEM fields. Janet’s vision is to develop and empower young women in STEM to make a sustainable impact and inspire the next generation of women leaders. She is a Senior Technical Product Manager for Amazon's Project Kuiper and the author of Boldly You: A Story about Discovering What You’re Capable of When You Show Up for Yourself.
Prototypes, it’s been six months since the STEM SYNC Podcast debuted on April 19, 2022, with my “why” story. Guess what? 20 guests later the STEM Sync Podcast is celebrating a successful Season 1 ending with a few of your favorite guests. Episode 2 introduced you the impetus behind the Podcast launch, Ms. Erika Jefferson of Black Women in Science and Engineering (BWISE), and her then Chief of Staff, Ms. Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna. Today’s episode brings the new BWISE Chief of Staff to the mic, Ms. Lauren Adegoke, as we catch up with the ladies hearing about their last six months. Tune in to the Season 1 Finale Episode 20 to understand the importance of finding a space to exhale. Now let’s sync!
Erika received her MBA from Georgia Tech and her BS in Chemical Engineering from LSU. She has worked for top companies such as Amoco, Chevron, and Praxair in a myriad of leadership and executive roles ranging from sales/business development to supply chain and operations excellence. Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna is a Black woman, 2020 graduate in Bioengineering from Harvard College who aims to become a physician-scientist to develop equitable diagnostic tools to help combat health disparities. She is currently pursuing a MD/PhD degree in the Medical Scientist Program at the University of California San Francisco. Lauren is the second BWISE Fellow as the Chief of Staff of Black Women in Science and Engineering. She is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Biomedical Engineering at the University of North Texas. She will graduate in December 2022 and is still deciding what career path she will follow.
https://www.linkedin.com/company/black-woman-in-science-and-engineering-bwise-/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikajeffersonmba/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/augusta-uwamanzu-nna/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-adegoke/
stemsync #blackwomeninstem #womeninstem #wocinstem #blackgirlsinSTEM #blackinstem #womeninscience #stem #shestem #blackwomenintech #STEM #stemeducation #stemcareers #blackengineers #blackinstem #blackdoctors #RepresentationMatters #melanininstem #nowletssync #stemstory#stemsync #podcast #blackwomeninstem #womeninstem #wocinstem #blackgirlsinSTEM #blackinstem #womeninscience #stem #shestem #blackwomenintech #STEM #stemeducation #stemcareers #blackengineers #blackinstem #blackdoctors #RepresentationMatters #melanininstem #nowletssync #stemsyncup #stemstory #stemprototypes #dei #ucsf #blackgradstudents
Episode 19 brings special guest to the STEM Sync Podcast as someone who I have watched blossom over the years in her pursuit of STEM education. Ms. Jailyn Dorsett is another mentee with a brilliant mind and genuine heart for people. A proud graduate of the Historically Black College University system, Jailyn’s gets honest about her transition into a Masters/PhD program at a predominantly white institution. Though met with moments of feeling unsupported, Prototypes will hear of Jailyn’s ability to discover her true passion, make wise decisions for her own peace of mind, and recognize that she still has a rightful place along the STEM pathway. Let’s get real and let’s sync!
Jailyn Dorsett hails from Long Branch, New Jersey. Currently, she is an Environmental Engineering Master's student at the University of Southern California (USC). Before going to USC, Jailyn attended the University of Maryland Eastern Shore for one year, and then finished out the next three years for my degree in Engineering Physics at Delaware State University (DSU). Throughout her time at DSU, she served as the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) local chapter president, worked in a renewable energy research lab, and graduated with honors. Jailyn’s accolades include completing her honors senior thesis on singlet oxygen. In her free time Jailyn enjoy painting, reading, and spending time at the beach.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jailyndorsett/
stemsync #podcast #blackwomeninstem #womeninstem #wocinstem #blackgirlsinSTEM #blackinstem #womeninscience #stem #shestem #blackwomenintech #STEM #stemeducation #stemcareers #blackengineers #blackinstem #blackdoctors #RepresentationMatters #melanininstem #nowletssync #stemsyncup #stemstory #stemprototypes #delstate #usc #hbcu #environmentaljustice
When assessing education and career opportunities, how do you lean into the decision-making process? Are you… Learning. Growing. Contributing. Those are the three ways Episode 18’s guest, Ms. Cassie Agyeman-Duah checks in with herself when making career moves. Prototypes, we should take account of her strategy as it has proven her to be very successful and most importantly fulfilled. Tune as Cassie details how she’s chartered paths in pursuit of dual degree programs, navigated the pros and cons of being a government contractor, and commanded respect for her skills through self-advocacy. Now let’s sync!
DISCLAIMER: The opinions of Ms. Cassie Agyeman-Duah are based on her personal accounts and do not reflect those of her current and previous employers.
Cassie Agyeman-Duah has always been inquisitive and into everything. Her interests were always broad - liking history almost as much as she liked math and participating in everything from science club to step team to ballet to JROTC. Her curiosity is also what piqued her interest in engineering. Her uncle was an engineer, and she was intrigued by how things worked. She would take things apart (and sometimes put them back together) as a child.
Cassie is now an alumna of the A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland, College Park. She attained a BS degree in Electrical Engineering with a secondary field in Fire Protection Engineering. After her undergraduate studies, she went on to pursue a dual degree, earning her MS in Information Technology with a concentration in Databases and Information Assurance and MBA from the University of Maryland, University College (now University of Maryland Global Campus). She later rounded out her education with a Certificate in Accounting from the University of California Berkeley. She has worked as an Electrical Engineer, Systems Engineer, Database Administrator, Technical Team Lead, and Chief Engineer among other roles for several large and small companies. She currently works as a Senior Solutions Architect with Amazon Web Services.
In her spare time, Cassie serves as the President of the University of Maryland Black Alumni (UMBA) Network and is also a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Her interest in community and willingness to serve are a big part of her identity. She is dedicated to creating inclusive and equitable experiences and environments for Black people in whatever space she is in. Cassie is constantly looking for ways to reach out and help wherever and however she can.
#stemsync #podcast #blackwomeninstem #womeninstem #wocinstem #blackgirlsinSTEM #blackinstem #womeninscience #stem #shestem #blackwomenintech #STEM #stemeducation #stemcareers #blackengineers #blackinstem #blackdoctors #RepresentationMatters #melanininstem #nowletssync #stemsyncup #stemstory #stemprototypes #systemsengineering #blackintech #terps #umcp #blackterps
Transformation of lives can be both direct and indirect dependent on the effect one hopes to achieve. Directly through hands on interaction and indirectly behind the scenes through planning, research, and policy. Today’s STEM SYNC Podcast guest, Dr. Stefanie Brodie, is doing both via the art of Urban Planning. Within recent years, the subject of incorporating equity into long range development rose to a hot topic specific to transportation systems. Dr. Brodie had the foresight and calling to specialize in factoring social fairness in sustainable infrastructure. While her journey has been unique, Dr. Brodie has been intentional about being true to her curious nature and certain of designing a life of lasting influence. Now let’s sync!
Stefanie Brodie has a love for cities that started in her old industrial hometown of Waterbury, CT. After graduating from the University of Maryland with a BS in Civil Engineering, she worked as a consultant for several years until that love led her to enter a dual master’s degree program at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Civil Engineering and City and Regional Planning. At this time she also discovered her love for research and continued to a PhD in Civil Engineering focusing her dissertation on transportation equity. Since completing her doctorate, Stefanie has held a Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Nottingham U.K., served as a research program specialist at the District of Columbia Department of Transportation, and is currently the Research Practice Lead at Toole Design Group. Her professional interests center on transportation planning and policy and she has aligned her current work to continue her research on equity. She believes that research should help public agencies make informed decisions and lead to safer, healthier, and happier lives, especially for those with the most challenges to overcome.
#stemsync #podcast #blackwomeninstem #womeninstem #wocinstem #blackgirlsinSTEM #blackinstem #womeninscience #stem #shestem #blackwomenintech #STEM #stemeducation #stemcareers #blackengineers #blackinstem #blackdoctors #RepresentationMatters #melanininstem #nowletssync #stemsyncup #stemstory #stemprototypes #research #transportation #terps #umcp #blackterps #georgiatech
Often livingone’s life to the fullest presents a wealth of extraordinary opportunities prompting one to make major life changing choices. Today’s guest Cherrie Fisher is no stranger to pivotal decisions while continuing to set big goals and dream big dreams. Cherrie’s candid story gives insight to the myth of attempting to balance family priorities while aiming to reach career aspirations. Her key points and resources underline the importance of creating the career you’ve always wanted while being purposeful in defining the roadmap to your most fulfilling life. Bottom line, never give up on your heart’s desires! Tune and hear how Cherrie is reimagining and intentionally redesigning the second half of her career to experience a fulfilled existence. Now let’s sync!
Cherrie Fisher recently accepted a Construction Supply Chain Manager position at NTT Global Data Centers, in this role she will be supporting construction efforts associated with the company's Hyperscale Data Centers. She has over 25 years of facilities and construction expertise, supporting AT&T, Inc., the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, EJ Smith Construction and most recently Parkland Health in Dallas, TX. Cherrie is a proud first-generation graduate of the Missouri University of Science and Technology. She is also a wife, mother and catalyst for encouraging, advancing and mentoring women and minorities in STEM (Science Technology Engineering & Math). In addition, Ms. Fisher serves as a construction neutral with the American Arbitration Association.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherriefisher/
Say what you want about Gen Z, but we can all take note of how this generation owns who they are, knows what they want out of life, and makes certain they reach for their dreams leaving no stones unturned. Today’s guest, Ms. Dana Wiggins, embodies these characteristics while blazing new paths as a Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Seize the App; the Personal Travel Photographer. Boomers, Gen X, and yes even you Millennials listen in as Dana drops gems of wisdom of how a simple idea can lead to a life unimagined. Now let’s sync! Dana Wiggins is the co-founder and CTO of Seize, which conveniently connects you to affordable quality photographers, enabling everyone to capture life well. Dana has years of experience as a Software Engineer, and she is passionate about using technology to solve everyday life problems. Dana is currently working on bringing Seize to market in the DC metro area. She first had the idea for Seize in 2019 while exploring San Francisco during a summer internship. When she eventually worked up the courage to do solo exploration in the city, she realized the need for an easily accessible on-demand photography service. After working in big tech for merely 9-months post-graduation, Dana left to pursue her passion and work on Seize full time in 2021. Since then, Seize has generated thousands of dollars in revenue and has captured incredible life moments for hundreds of customers, including a Real Housewife of Potomac. Dana is an alumna of the University of Maryland: College Park with a bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering and a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. When she's not coding for Seize, she can be found decorating cakes or investing in real estate. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-wiggins/ https://www.seizetheapp.io/
stemsync #podcast #blackwomeninstem #womeninstem #wocinstem #blackgirlsinSTEM #blackinstem #womeninscience #stem #shestem #blackwomenintech #STEM #stemeducation #stemcareers #blackengineers #blackinstem #blackdoctors #RepresentationMatters #melanininstem #nowletssync #stemsyncup #stemstory #stemprototypes #seizetheapp #startup #terps #umcp #entrepreunership
Ever wonder the meaning behind buzz words such as “public health” and “dietician”? Episode 14 gives insight to those terms through Dr. Pascale Jean’s storytelling of her unique journey in the distinctive career field of community nutrition. Her passionate to expand basic nutrition needs globally propelled her to push past uncomfortable growth points to reach her goals. Tune in to hear about how Dr. Jean’s Haitian upbringing influenced her decision to become a change maker focused on developing policy to ensure food equity for all. We can all learn a little some about determination from Dr. Jean. Now let’s sync!
Pascale Jean grew up in the beautiful island of Haiti and in sunny hot culture-enriched Miami, Florida, in a multilingual home with immigrant parents who installed the importance of faith, education and family. She obtained all her degrees from Florida International University. While completing her bachelor in dietetics and nutrition, she gravitated toward community nutrition which led her to pursue a master’s degree in public health with a focus on health promotion and disease prevention. After completing her masters, Pascale pursued her goal to become a registered dietitian. While working as a registered dietitian at the local county health department, she was fueled with the desire to have an impact in my community, especially in the underserved and under-represented population. This led her to become a certified health educator specialist and also obtain a doctorate degree in Public Health.
Currently Pascale is a National Program Leader with the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) in the Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition in the Division of Nutrition. Prior to joining NIFA, she worked as a Branch Chief for the Program and Grant Administration Branch at USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), Community Food Systems Division, where she led the team that facilitates the Farm to School Grant Program.
Pascale resides in Columbia, Maryland with her dog, Denny. She enjoys running and has completed several marathons, half-marathons and charitable 5Ks. She also enjoys reading and traveling.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/pascalejeanphd/
stemsync #podcast #blackwomeninstem #womeninstem #wocinstem #blackgirlsinSTEM #blackinstem #womeninscience #stem #shestem #blackwomenintech #STEM #stemeducation #stemcareers #blackengineers #blackinstem #blackdoctors #RepresentationMatters #melanininstem #nowletssync #stemsyncup #stemstory #stemprototypes #publichealth #dietary #nutrition #usda #haiti
What do you get when you take 30 years of friendship multiplied by 2 engineering majors raised to the 2nd power of overseas employment opportunities in different countries? You get today’s Episode 13 with my dear sister Delories King. In 2015 within a week of each other we both left the comfort of our family and friends to explore the world; Delories in Sicily and me in Japan. Tune in to hear Delories’s story of what led her adventure to include concentric circle goal setting, risk-based decisions, and a genuine feeling of wanderlust. Get the real on the positive and areas of involuntary growth that turns into a once in lifetime experience. Now let’s SYNC!
Delories L. King (La Mastra) is a Portfolio Optimization Element Chief currently working for the United States Air Force; she is poised and ready to begin a new position with the United States Department of State, a long-awaited position since her career in Civil Service began in 2003. Delories is 51% owner of TEKNIWELL, LLC a minority woman-owned disadvantaged small business based in Maryland but founded in Sicily, Italy with the help of her 49% partner in business and in life…her husband.
The last of three children, Delories was born in Washington, DC to Jamaican parents, and grew up in Silver Spring, Maryland. Delories was taught lessons of sacrifice, the value of education, hard work, perseverance and respect as she watched her parents thrive while building their life in the United States.
In High School, Delories recognized her love for the science, art, and world travel. Chemistry piqued her interest which led to her initial pursuit of a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of Maryland College Park in 1999. During her sophomore year at UMCP, Delories changed her major to Mechanical Engineering. Delories earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in 2005, remained with GSA as an entry level Mechanical Engineer, and earned a Master of Business Administration with a focus in Globalization in 2009.
After working with GSA for four and a half years, Delories decided it was time to move on to a position that would afford her the opportunity to complete large scale capital improvements, a chance at professional growth, and the ability to travel while working. Her job search led her to NAVFAC Washington where she served as a Construction Manager for 8 years before the golden opportunity to pursue work and life overseas in Italy presented itself in 2015.
A single mother in June 2015, Delories and her 8-year-old daughter embarked upon a life-changing overseas experience with NAVFAC Europe, Africa & Southwest Asia (EURAFSWA) now known as NAVY Region Europe, Africa, Central (EURAFCENT). For three and a half years, Delories was immersed in Italian culture, art, and science both at work and at home. She was officially feeding her love for science, art, and world travel. From her overseas experience, and the various decisions along her professional journey, Delories believes in the concept of “concentric circles” and says:
“People always say ‘think big’ but thinking big can be overwhelming or scary to me. So I think in concentric circles, I expanded my view, my goal, my desire just a little bit at a time. And before I knew it, I was feeding my dreams without even knowing it. My circle now spans the globe with lifelong friends and colleagues sprinkled in countries that I’d never imagine. I have a global network and it has opened many doors for me. I’m eternally grateful for my experience.”
Today’s new episode features another FIRST for the STEM Sync Podcast; the first collegiate guest! Prototypes are introduced to Ms. Aliyah Osman; a rising fourth year civil engineering major sharing her journey along the STEM pipeline. Aliyah is one of my mentees and to say I am proud of her is an understatement. While she is soft spoken, Aliyah is very certain of her interest in humanitarian engineering and open to uncovering the opportunities that will fulfill her heart to serve others. Listeners will hear of Aliyah’s varied accomplishments and sincere dialogue as I encourage her to walk with her head high while exploring what may be on the horizon after college. Our conversation illustrates that a mentoring relationship is not just one way with Aliyah’s words of wisdom also inspiring me. Now let’s sync!
Aliyah Osman was born in Washington DC and then shortly moved to Yokosuka, Japan where she gained interest in architectural design and sustainability— specifically in the topic of water filtration powered by the sun. While in college, she has conducted research on solar desalination at OIST and MIT. Currently, she is a fourth-year at the Ohio State University majoring in Civil Engineering and minoring in Humanitarian Engineering and French. Her area of interest in the Engineering field is in water treatment.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliyahosman/
Prototypes, the STEM SYNC Podcast is international!!! The need to increase the women of color in STEM representation in education and careers is not only urgent within the United States. The importance of diversity of thought and experience in STEM is essential across the globe. Today’s episode features Dr. Morley Muse, a staunch advocate in Australia for the visibility and employability of women of color in addition to women with culturally and linguistically diverse background in STEM. Listen in as Dr. Muse details her journey taking a reasonable risk moving to Australia from the United Kingdom, confronting discrimination while seeking employment, and obtaining success in both academia and entrepreneurship with the goal off addressing the diversity disparities in STEM. Now let’s SYNC!
Dr. Morley Muse holds a PhD in Environmental Engineering from Victoria University, a masters in Sustainable Energy Technology from The University of South Wales UK and a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical with Environmental Engineering from The University of Nottingham UK.
Her expertise and background are centred on environmental sustainability, waste to energy generation strategies and renewable energy. Her research is specialised on microalgae biofuels processing, wastewater treatment, microalgae degradation, volatile fatty acids production, anaerobic hydrolysis and digestion, lipids production, energy recovery and biogas production.
Dr. Muse is an established speaker, an entrepreneur and a passionate advocate for women in STEMM. She is a director on the board for Women in STEMM Australia, one of the leading global STEMM organisations. She is also the co-founder of Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Club at Victoria University. She is a former ambassador for CSIRO's Innovation Catalyst Global championing the 'Find Her' tool which connects female STEM academics to industry partners. Dr. Muse is also on the advisory panel for Elevate 'Boosting the next generation of women in STEM' with The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering Limited (ATSE) which has been awarded $41.2 million to manage the delivery of up to 500 university scholarships.
Dr. Muse is the co-founder of iSTEM Co., a research, consulting and talent sourcing business aimed to enable employment of women into Australia’s STEM organisations particularly women of colour and women from CALD as research shows four times higher unemployment rates for Australian women born overseas.
Dr. Muse’s goal is to promote gender diversity in STEM and inspire the next generation to pursue STEM subjects and careers.
Linked In account: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morley-muse-a27010160/
Women in STEMM Australia: https://womeninscienceaust.org/
iSTEM Co.: www.istemco.com
If you listened to Part 1, then you are already aware that Ms. Madina Alharazim is certain about who she is, and others recognize her talents (and amazing fashion sense) as well. In Episode 10 Part 2, Prototypes will hear of Madina’s career transitions, moments of adversity that resulted in personal growth, and her involvement in humanitarian efforts. Madina also introduces us to her creative entrepreneurship journey that leverages her STEM background. Tune in and LET’S SYNC! Episode link:
Madina grew up and went to Middle and High School in Charles County, Maryland. In 1999, she attended Temple University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Engineering and Technology in 2004. Upon graduating, she immediately began working as the Southern Division Environmental Coordinator, for AMTRAK, while attending the University of Maryland, subsequently, graduating and earning a Master of Science degree in Energy, Environmental, and Natural Resources Management and Policy Development.
In 2007, she advanced her career by taking a job with the Department of Navy, Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC). During her time with NAVFAC, she served in multiple job positions: 2007 thru 2012 - Environmental Engineer 2018 thru 2019 - Supervisory Environmental Engineer also known as, Installation Environmental Programs Director 2018 thru 1019 - Facilities Management (Maintenance) Division Director 2019 – Served as “Acting Deputy Public Works Officer” 2020 to present – Serves as Physical Scientist, Notices of Violation Program Manager for NAVFAC Headquarters and Naval Environmental Readiness Training Coordinator for the Chief of Naval Operations Environmental Branch.
Between 2012 through 2019, Madina served on the Board of Directors for The Unforgotten. In 2013, she and her sister, (Aminata Alharazim, a Biomedical Engineer), founded and operated the first field office in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The Sierra Leone branch, was a non-profit organization primarily focused in educating young girls that were not attending school, living on the street, and, surviving as wastepickers. The Unforgotten: https://unforgotten.org/
Madina’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madina-alharazim-822a4453/
As you move through your daily routines, do you reflect upon how much your words and presence impact those around you? Consider the phrase “Intentional Influence.” It is defined as the impact our behavior has on others without even knowing it. On today’s episode of the STEM SYNC Podcast, Ms. Madina Alharazim reflects on her #stemstory highlighting moments of intentional (and sometimes unintentional) influence from others as she navigated both her STEM education and early career. Tune in and LET’S SYNC!
Madina grew up and went to Middle and High School in Charles County, Maryland. In 1999, she attended Temple University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Engineering and Technology in 2004. Upon graduating, she immediately began working as the Southern Division Environmental Coordinator, for AMTRAK, while attending the University of Maryland, subsequently, graduating and earning a Master of Science degree in Energy, Environmental, and Natural Resources Management and Policy Development.
In 2007, she advanced her career by taking a job with the Department of Navy, Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC). During her time with NAVFAC, she served in multiple job positions:
2007 thru 2012 - Environmental Engineer
2018 thru 2019 - Supervisory Environmental Engineer also known as, Installation Environmental Programs Director
2018 thru 1019 - Facilities Management (Maintenance) Division Director
2019 – Served as “Acting Deputy Public Works Officer”
2020 to present – Serves as a Physical Scientist, Notices of Violation Program Manager for NAVFAC Headquarters and Naval Environmental Readiness Training Coordinator for the Chief of Naval Operations Environmental Branch.
Between 2012 through 2019, Madina served on the Board of Directors for The Unforgotten. In 2013, she and her sister, (Aminata Alharazim, a Biomedical Engineer), founded and operated the first field office in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The Sierra Leone branch, was a non-profit organization primarily focused in educating young girls that were not attending school, living on the street, and, surviving as wastepickers.
Madina’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madina-alharazim-822a4453/
One thing about Dr. Ayana Langston, she is unapologetic about her passion for Black Women and reproductive health. Part 1ended with me asking Dr. Langston if attending a predominately white institution prepared her for the medical school journey. She answers the question effortlessly in Part 2 in addition to detailing the unexpected Naval Officer opportunity, underlining the importance of community, and giving insight on her future endeavors.
Ayana L. Langston, MD, MS is a physician and Lieutenant in the US Navy Medical Corps stationed in Bahrain. She earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology as well as Kinesiology from the University of Maryland, College Park. Originally from Prince George’s County, Maryland, Ayana is the youngest of three children. She always knew she would pursue a career in medicine due to her dedication to service and love of women’s health. Ayana is a proud alumna of the Eta Epsilon Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. She also graduated with a Masters in Biomedical Sciences and a Medical Degree from Wake Forest School of Medicine. Upon completion of her military tour, she will finish her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
When she is not seeing patients aboard one of the ships in her command, Ayana spends most of her time brunching with her friends, working out in the gym or binge-watching medical dramas. She also enjoys dance of all styles, Bikram yoga and creating medical content and healthcare discussions for her social media. She has recently caught the travel bug and is excited to continue her global travels—both recreational and military related—with her favorite travel companion in tow, her dog Theodore.
stemsync #podcast #blackwomeninstem #womeninstem #wocinstem #blackgirlsinSTEM #blackinstem #womeninscience #stem #shestem #blackwomenintech #STEM #stemeducation #stemcareers #blackengineers #blackinstem #blackdoctors #RepresentationMatters #melanininstem #nowletssync #stemsyncup #stemstory #stemprototypes #terp #navymedicine #navyofficer #bumed #zetaphibeta #finerwomanhood
Melanin. Military. & Medicine. Talk about a force to be reckoned with. Tune in to today’s new episode as I speak with my first medical professional Dr. Ayana L. Langston. Her passion for women's health with a focus on reproductive justice is loud and clear as she educates on the importance of self-advocacy. https://anchor.fm/stemsync
Ayana L. Langston, MD, MS is a Physician and Lieutenant in the US Navy Medical Corps stationed in Bahrain. She earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology as well as Kinesiology from the University of Maryland, College Park. Originally from Prince George’s County, Maryland, Ayana is the youngest of three children. She always knew she would pursue a career in medicine due to her dedication to service and love of women’s health. Ayana is a proud alumna of the Eta Epsilon Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. She also graduated with a Masters in Biomedical Sciences and a Medical Degree from Wake Forest School of Medicine. Upon completion of her military tour, she will finish her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
When she is not seeing patients aboard one of the ships in her command, Ayana spends most of her time brunching with her friends, working out in the gym or binge-watching medical dramas. She also enjoys dance of all styles, Bikram yoga and creating medical content and healthcare discussions for her social media. She has recently caught the travel bug and is excited to continue her global travels—both recreational and military related—with her favorite travel companion in tow, her dog Theodore.
https://www.instagram.com/drlangstonrising/
How many of you all listened to Part 1 and took on the request to reflect upon this question: How are you showing up as a leader and how is your leadership showing up for you? Dr. Davis did not come to tread lightly, and this conversation continues to highlight her intelligence and keen sense of self that makes her an effective mentor for many. Part 2 touches on the importance of self preservation, principles of effective leadership, and even wise financial management coupled with future planning. Now let’s sync. https://anchor.fm/stemsync
Dr. Santia Davis grew up in downtown Portsmouth, Virginia to a family of two sisters and one brother, mother and stepfather. Life was rough, as both parents were caught up into drugs in the 90s. Dr. Davis became pregnant at 15 and gave birth in September of her junior year. She then went own to graduate the following year and did not have a clear path. She took a security job and while in that job decided to follow her dad's footsteps working for the shipyard. After passing the apprenticeship test with flying colors Dr. Davis went into the Pipe Shop to be a pipefitter. Life would then take Dr. Davis away from Virginia due to enlistment in the Army. While away, her brother was federally indicted and received a sentence of 36 years.
Shortly after, she returned home to start her career at Northrop Grumman as a Mechanical Designer (Drafter) and educational journey at the community college - AS in CADD, transferring to ODU to complete a BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology and later a MEM - Masters of Engineering Management. After receiving her BS, she was promoted to Mechanical Engineer for HM&E - shipboard. Dr. Davis moved on from Northrop Grumman to CDI Marine before ending up at Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) as facilities engineer. At NAVFAC Dr. Davis held several titles, Mechanical Engineer, Spec Writer, Infrastructure Engineer, Safety and Process Improvement Supervisor, Commodity Manager and Logistic Supply Specialist. Working with NAVFAC allowed her to travel to places she never thought she would see.
Currently Dr. Davis works for the Department of State and the Capital Region Facilities Branch Chief.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/santiamdavis/
New Episode Alert! Teenage mother, Shipyard Pipe Fitter, and Army Veteran. You may refer to her as Santia Davis, Ph.D. Who knew that when I met Dr. Santia Davis on a bus in Japan, I would be in the presence of a woman who walks the walk and TALKS THAT TALK! Listen to Episode 8 for another great conversation as Dr. Davis exudes her spirit of determination while telling her heartfelt journey in becoming an Engineer.
Dr. Santia Davis grew up in downtown Portsmouth, Virginia to a family of two sisters and one brother, mother and stepfather. Life was rough, as both parents were caught up into drugs in the 90s. Dr. Davis became pregnant at 15 and gave birth in September of her junior year. She then went own to graduate the following year and did not have a clear path. She took a security job and while in that job decided to follow her dad's footsteps working for the shipyard. After passing the apprenticeship test with flying colors Dr. Davis went into the Pipe Shop to be a pipefitter. Life would then take Dr. Davis away from Virginia due to enlistment in the Army. While away, her brother was federally indicted and received a sentence of 36 years.
Shortly after, she returned home to start her career at Northrop Grumman as a Mechanical Designer (Drafter) and educational journey at the community college - AS in CADD, transferring to ODU to complete a BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology and later a MEM - Masters of Engineering Management. After receiving her BS, she was promoted to Mechanical Engineer for HM&E - shipboard. Dr. Davis moved on from Northrop Grumman to CDI Marine before ending up at Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) as facilities engineer. At NAVFAC Dr. Davis held several titles, Mechanical Engineer, Spec Writer, Infrastructure Engineer, Safety and Process Improvement Supervisor, Commodity Manager and Logistic Supply Specialist. Working with NAVFAC allowed her to travel to places she never thought she would see.
Currently Dr. Davis works for the Department of State and the Capital Region Facilities Branch Chief.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/santiamdavis/
Would you isolate yourself for at least THREE MONTHS to study for an EIGHT HOUR OPEN BOOK exam that you MIGHT pass?
On Episode 7, fellow Environmentalist Nicole Johnson, joins me as we give insight on our field of Environmental Engineering, get REAL about the humbling P.E. licensing journey, and the valuable resource of networking.
According to the National Society of Professional Engineers, the Professional Engineer license is the profession’s highest standard telling the public that an engineer has mastered the critical elements of the profession. But how does one prepare and is it worth it?
Nicole Johnson currently serves as the Air Quality, Sustainability and Training Program Manager for the Marine Corps Headquarters/MCICOM. Since January 2020, she has managed the planning and programming of environmental training requirements for Marine Corps installations and works closely with CECOS in delivering these requirements. In 2011, Nicole began her federal career at NAVFAC Washington as a Water, Wastewater and EMS Media Manager at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling (JBAB). She was promoted just a few years later to EMS Program Manager for the NAVFAC Washington Region and served on the EMS MFT.
Prior to her federal career, Nicole worked in the private sector for Fortune 500 companies, including Coca-Cola bottling company. Here, she managed the planning, permitting and environmental compliance for more than 150 production facilities and warehouses.
A graduate of Clemson University, Nicole has a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Biosystems Engineering. She is also a registered PE in Maryland. Nicole enjoys spending her free time reading mystery novels, playing tennis, and trying to keep up with her French bulldog puppy, Oreo.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-johnson-p-e-8426326
New Episode Tuesdays!! Prototypes… didn’t Bukola Somide show her brilliance in breaking down the umbrella of computer science in Part 1? Well in Part 2, we learn more about her application of the subject as it relates to her entrepreneurial journey. Spoiler Alert… It hasn’t been easy! Tap in to learn more about Bukola’s passion, products, and most importantly her purpose.
Bukola Somide is a loving mom, software engineer, inventor, author, inspirational speaker, founder/CEO of Innovant Technologies LLC and 501(c)3 nonprofit, CompSci ABC. She is passionate about creating fun Computer Science educational products to inspire, educate, engage, and boost the confidence of children in underrepresented communities. Her work has been featured on many media outlets such as ABC15 Arizona, Ebony, AfroTech, Black Enterprise, KTAR 92.3FM, & Good Morning - Baltimore radio, just to name a few. Ms. Somide is best known for creating the first interactive educational doll on Computer Science and Cyberbullying awareness. She's also the author of five-star rated books: "Somi the Computer Scientist: Princess Can Code", and Computer Science Activity Books for Girls & Boys.
Somi the Computer Scientist: https://somidigiverse.com/
Innovant Technologies: https://www.innovant-tech.com/
Bukola Somide: https://www.bukolasomide.com/
New Episode Alert! Today’s very fun and high energy episode brings my fellow Terp Alum Bukola Somide to tell her journey to create the FIRST EVER BLACK INTERACTIVE STEM DOLL. Listeners learn how she developed interest in computer science, her career as a Software Engineer, and how her technical background mixed with her passion to help others resulted in becoming an entrepreneur.
Bukola Somide is a loving mom, software engineer, inventor, author, inspirational speaker, founder/CEO of Innovant Technologies LLC and 501(c)3 nonprofit, CompSci ABC. She is passionate about creating fun Computer Science educational products to inspire, educate, engage, and boost the confidence of children in underrepresented communities. Her work has been featured on many media outlets such as ABC15 Arizona, Ebony, AfroTech, Black Enterprise, KTAR 92.3FM, & Good Morning - Baltimore radio, just to name a few. Ms. Somide is best known for creating the first interactive educational doll on Computer Science and Cyberbullying awareness. She's also the author of five-star rated books: "Somi the Computer Scientist: Princess Can Code", and Computer Science Activity Books for Girls & Boys.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bukolasomide/
https://www.innovant-tech.com/
https://www.bukolasomide.com/
With so much happening in the world, the importance of nurturing one’s mental health is front and center. Today’s new episode features Krystle’s chat with her co-worker Ms. Ivenetta Smith, Civil Engineer, discussing the importance of gentle and kind self-talk. Tune in as Ivey walks you through her STEM journey pinpointing life experiences that underlined why self confidence is vital to success.
Ivenetta Smith is an emerging leader in the Industrial Operation Directorate, Naval Sea Systems Command. Ms. Smith has a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Bennett College and Master of Science, Civil Engineering from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
Ivey Speaks is a speaker, mentor, and author, currently residing in the DC metropolitan area. Ivey’s extraordinary story of rejecting God and the plan of God to becoming a street evangelist for Christ is the inspiration behind her bold mission to teach others that God has a plan and a purpose for everyone’s life and with the proper perspective they too can turn the pressure into greatness.
In her book, Pressurized for Greatness: 5 Things About the Grace of Tomorrow, she shares the power of forgiveness and grace. Along with the dark struggles she experienced in childhood, it was the grace of God to draw her back to Christ. In her latest book, Boost Your Self Esteem, she lays out practical steps to self-love, self-care, and positive self-talk.
Ivey Speaks: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivey-speaks-37a231229/
Ivenetta Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivenetta-smith-49358931/
Listen on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcast, or your preferred podcast app. Feel free to send questions to podcast@stemsync.net.
!!New EPISODE Alert!! YOU ARE NOT YOUR SAT SCORE! – Jameelah Muhammad
What can you do to help your child become a successful STEM professional? On today’s episode Ms. Jameelah Muhammad, mother of my mentee Ms. Aliyah Osman gives insight on her experience in supporting a rising Black female engineer. Jameelah shares what incited her to contact me, the importance of being in a partnership with your child throughout the college application process, and the resources she found most valuable in selecting Aliyah’s college.
Ms. Jameelah Muhammad was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. She has a Masters degree in Hispanic Linguistics from La Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico in Mexico City, Mexico. Ms. Muhammad has raised 2 children multilingually living abroad in Mexico, Guatemala, Spain and Japan. She is currently a Spanish teacher in Okinawa, Japan where she has sponsored the after-school program, The College Prep Club.
Listen on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcast, or your preferred podcast app. Feel free to send questions to podcast@stemsync.net.
stemsync #podcast #blackwomeninstem #womeninstem #wocinstem #blackgirlsinSTEM #blackinstem #womeninscience #stem #shestem #blackwomenintech #STEM #stemeducation #stemcareers #blackengineers #blackinstem #blackdoctors #RepresentationMatters #melanininstem #nowletssync #stemstory #mentor #mentee #collegeprep #sat #collegeboard
Episode 3 Part 2 continues the “good girlfriend” conversation with Mrs. Sophia Goodner-Rodriguez, GISP, consultant extraordinaire. Join us as I learn more about what led Sophia to shift to commercial consulting and the resource she wishes to share with Prototypes.
DISCLAIMER: The opinions of Mrs. Sophia Goodner-Rodriguez are based on her personal accounts and do not reflect those of her current and previous employers.
Mrs. Sophia Goodner-Rodriguez is a Senior Principal and Account Leader in Slalom Consulting Austin Market. She has provided services to Defense, Civil, and Commercial business sectors leading various innovation & initiatives both internally through multi-year strategic planning, strategic communication, opportunity management governance, and standing up enablement functions to accelerate solution acquisition. Her focus areas are in Facility Management, Construction/Design, Immersive (VR/AR/MR), Installation Resilience, Automation, Machine Learning & AI, Autonomous Vehicles, and Digital Twin Platforms. With over 15 years of experience she currently splits her time between Austin and San Antonio, Texas. She has served in various leadership positions in her commitment to DEI initiatives of the several employee resource groups throughout her career.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/soro4all/
Listen on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcast, or your preferred podcast app. Feel free to send questions to podcast@stemsync.net or on your favorite social media platform.
stemsync #blackwomeninstem #womeninstem #wocinstem #blackgirlsinSTEM #blackinstem #womeninscience #stem #shestem #blackwomenintech #STEM #stemeducation #stemcareers #blackengineers #blackinstem #blackdoctors #RepresentationMatters #melanininstem #nowletssync #stemstory #consultant #consulting #utulsa #talentaquisition #recruitment #diversity
Consultant… a generalized job title often used to describe elite talent. But what exactly is a consultant and what does a consultant do? Episode 3 introduces Prototypes to the talented Mrs. Sophia Goodner-Rodriguez, GISP, consultant extraordinaire. Join my dear friend whose engaging storytelling provides insight on the term while leaving you with many life lessons.
DISCLAIMER: The opinions of Mrs. Sophia Goodner-Rodriguez are based on her personal accounts and do not reflect those of her current and previous employers.
Mrs. Sophia Goodner-Rodriguez is a Senior Principal and Account Leader in Slalom Consulting Austin Market. She has provided services to Defense, Civil, and Commercial business sectors leading various innovation & initiatives both internally through multi-year strategic planning, strategic communication, opportunity management governance, and standing up enablement functions to accelerate solution acquisition. Her focus areas are in Facility Management, Construction/Design, Immersive (VR/AR/MR), Installation Resilience, Automation, Machine Learning & AI, Autonomous Vehicles, and Digital Twin Platforms. With over 15 years of experience she currently splits her time between Austin and San Antonio, Texas. She has served in various leadership positions in her commitment to DEI initiatives of the several employee resource groups throughout her career.
Listen on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcast, or your preferred podcast app. Feel free to send questions to podcast@stemsync.netor on your favorite social media platform.
Are you ready to BE SEEN?
Then join other career minded women at the Black Women in Science and Engineering (BWISE) Virtual Career Fair & Networking Event on WEDNESDAY, MAY 25TH 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Central Daylight Time!
Meet our awesome exhibitors such as BD, Enbridge, PepsiCo, Shelf Engine, IPS-Integrated Project Services, iRhythm Technologies, Inc., Union Pacific Railroad, and MORE!
There’s also a stellar lineup of phenomenal speakers, includes: Wanda L. Scott, M.Ed, CPDC, CVF, Dr. Natoshia Anderson, and Nickquolette Barrett ~ The GET HIRED Strategist!
Register today for this FREE event!
For more information on the Black Women in Science and Engineer (BWISE) Virtual Career Fair & Networking Event visit: https://tinyurl.com/bwisemaycareerfair.
“But I Did It Anyway…” continues the engaging conversation with @Black Women in Science and Engineering (BWISE) ladies, Ms. Erika Jefferson, and Ms. Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna.
Part 1 left Prototypes with a cliffhanger after Augusta mentioned that she was ONE OF TWO BLACK WOMEN IN HER GRADUATING CLASS AT HARVARD. Press play as we uncover more about Augusta and the importance of Erika’s mentorship as she transitions into a graduate program. You’ll also learn the two resources these women found to be valuable tools along the way.
Erika received her MBA from Georgia Tech and her BS in Chemical Engineering from LSU. She has worked for top companies such as Amoco, Chevron, and Praxair in a myriad of leadership and executive roles ranging from sales/business development to supply chain and operations excellence. https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikajeffersonmba/
Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna is a Black woman, 2020 graduate in Bioengineering from Harvard College who aims to become a physician-scientist to develop equitable diagnostic tools to help combat health disparities. https://www.linkedin.com/in/augusta-uwamanzu-nna/
Listen on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcast, or your preferred podcast app. Feel free to send questions to podcast@stemsync.net.
Today’s episode features the AMAZING ladies of @ Black Women in Science and Engineering (BWISE), Ms. Erika Jefferson, and Ms. Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna. Tune in to hear about Erika’s journey from working in industry to becoming BWISE’s President and Founder. We’ll also discover Augusta’s educational pursuits and the divine connection that resulted in her becoming the first BWISE Chief of Staff and inaugural Fellow.
Listen on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcast or your preferred podcast app. Feel free to send questions to podcast@stemsync.net.
About Erika Jefferson:
Erika Jefferson is the President and Founder of Black Women in Science and Engineering(BWISE), an organization focused on bridging the leadership gap for Black women in STEM. She received her MBA from Georgia Tech and her BS in Chemical Engineering from LSU. She has worked for top companies such as Amoco, Chevron, and Praxair in a myriad of leadership and executive roles ranging from sales/business development to supply chain and operations excellence. Her more than two decades of experience led her across the nation from Chicago to Greenville, Charlotte, Atlanta and eventually Houston.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikajeffersonmba/
About Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna:
Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna is a Black woman, 2020 graduate in Bioengineering from Harvard College who aims to become a physician-scientist to develop equitable diagnostic tools to help combat health disparities. She has been a science and academic mentor for students across the social spectrum since the age of 17, and currently serves as Chief of Staff of Black Women in Science and Engineering. Augusta aims to center her pursuits around innovation that centers the needs of the most overlooked individuals in our society.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/augusta-uwamanzu-nna/
With a little twist, the tables are turned as STEM Sync’s Founder, Krystle McClain is in the hot seat. Join Saundra Davis, Krystle’s Executive Coach, in learning more about Krystle STEM journey, how STEM SYNC came to fruition, and what “Prototypes” can expect along this new podcast endeavor.
Want to know more about Krystle or STEM Sync? Feel free to send questions to podcast@stemsync.net.
About Saundra Davis:
Saundra is a US Navy veteran, financial coach, educator and organizational consultant. Ms. Davis is nationally recognized as an expert in the financial management and coaching field and for her work with organizations that focus on asset building. Saundra is passionate about partnering with leaders who aspire to bring creativity and innovation to their direct reports and within their organizations. Ms. Davis is an ICF certified coach. She is a graduate of the nationally recognized Sherpa Executive Coaching program and the Coach Training Institute’s Fulfillment and Balance-Work Program.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/saundradavis/
For Season 1, STEM Sync is partnering with Black Women in Science in Engineering to shine the light on AMAZING Black Women pursuing STEM education and careers.
Interested in knowing more about the STEM SYNC Podcast? Check out the show’s trailer. Subscribe so you don’t miss the first episode.