STEM CREW MAGAZINE
Showing Up for STEM By Danielle Lewis HBCUs graduate 25% of African American professionals in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) [1]. HBCUs offer wonderful STEM programs, including notable engineering programs such as North Carolina A&T State University and Howard University, while typically maintaining a lower cost than other institutions. However, we are still lacking proper representation for minorities, including women. It’s imperative to not only showcase to black students the possibilities of STEM, but also equip them with the tools they need to be successful in these highly competitive fields. Increasing black representation in STEM will drive change and increase equity in our communities. STEM jobs are some of the most lucrative available. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for STEM professionals is more than double that of non-STEM jobs [2]. Let’s ignite a passion and curiosity for STEM in black youth, and promote HBCUs as a valuable option in pursuing a STEM career! I’d like to share my HBCU STEM (heavy on the ‘E’) journey and helpful resources along the way: I'm from Pell City, AL, a small town not too far from Birmingham. Even when I was younger, I was always interested in Math and Science, partly due to my mom being an engineer. I knew I wanted to attend Oakwood University, however, it did not have its own Engineering program. Through Oakwood University and University of Alabama in Huntsville's Dual Degree Program, I had the unique experience of attending both a private HBCU and a public PWI while earning my degrees. At Oakwood, I was able to really connect with my peers, professors, and mentors that guided and challenged me. Additionally, the financial and academic burden of a 5 year program caused me to be proactive in discovering scholarships through organizations such as the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) NSBE’s mission is "to increase the number of culturally responsible Black Engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community", and it was the single most important resource during my college career. With NSBE, I was able to lead as chapter President, receive scholarships, build my engineering network, and land my first full time job. After graduating with degrees in Applied Math and Mechanical Engineering, but thankfully no student loan debt, I joined Cummins Inc. Through Cummins’ Engineering Development Program (EDP), I had the opportunity to explore the company in a holistic manner, both technical and non-technical and from new technology development to aftermarket areas of the company. My 7+ years in the automotive industry has been both exciting and challenging. My most recent role has been working as a Systems Engineer Product Specialist in Accelera (Cummins’ newest technology company) to create, test, and deliver demo electric vehicles and software. One of the biggest highlights in my career was a recent trip to the UK where I led a team of engineers and successfully commissioned several electric mini excavators. Because I know first hand how invaluable these opportunities were for my career as a black woman in STEM, I am passionate to advocate for the younger generations of black STEM potential. I remain actively involved in the attraction, retention, and engagement of diverse talent including serving as the coordinator for the Cummins NSBE Integrated Pipeline Program which is a scholarship, internship, and mentorship opportunity for students at Howard, NC A&T, and Purdue University. Starting my own
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