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/