Janeen Uzzell is the CEO of the National Society of Black Engineers, an organization created to raise the graduation rate of Black engineering students in the United States. NBSE recently had its 50th annual convention in Atlanta, where the organization provides career fairs, networking and personal development for students.
Uzzell spoke with rolling out about the value of an engineer, how Black engineers are contributing to society and four reasons why she would suggest somebody to be in engineering.
What is the value of an engineer?
The world of STEM — science, technology, engineering, and math — is critical to solving the world’s toughest problems. The things that you learn in engineering are not just the technology of sorts — it’s not just the physics or the electronics or the thermodynamics — it is the critical thinking. Engineers are uniquely designed to solve problems. We think differently, and we respond differently to difficult situations, so there’s incredible value if you choose to stay in the engineering field. The mayor of Atlanta is a chemical engineer. We use those skills to do many different things. I see great value in it, and I see a great future for us in the world and society.
How do you see Black engineers contributing to the society?
Black engineers are going to be the future of what it means to change technology for what the world is trending to look like. The world is more than 50 percent diverse. Why would you not want the diversity of technology to be the team that solves these issues? It’s been proven that a diverse team in any aspect — whether you’re dealing with sports or technology — makes a team better. We’re more unified with the very things that make us different. Being Black being from different demographics, different parts of society, different schools — whether you are at an HBCU, a PWI, or another institution — all of these are trends of thought that are necessary for engineers. I think we’re incredibly valuable and incredibly needed.
What are four reasons to pursue engineering as a career?
First and foremost, you’re highly marketable. You’re going to get a job, whether you choose to stay in engineering or go into law or medicine.
Secondly, being an engineer creates a trend financially that I think is very important for individuals, particularly those of us who don’t come from generational wealth. There’s an opportunity for you to be financially strong and secure.
Third, you get to join groups like NSBE where you find your tribe, your community, a place where you can not have to go alone. If you choose to do it, you don’t have to be afraid because you’re not going to do this by yourself.
Fourth, I can promise you that the world needs you to do this. We have paved the way. I’ve been a member of NSBE for almost 30 years. I need NSBE to stay around for another 50 years, and we can only do that if you decide to do so. The world needs you. We need you to build, solve, cure, design and help to change the world.
