For 28 years, the Women of Color STEM Conference has been a symbol of acknowledgment for women’s remarkable accomplishments in
science, technology, engineering and math.
This year’s conference took place from Oct. 12-14 in Detroit. More than 200 women from diverse backgrounds in various divisions of STEM were honored, including 13 HII employees and five from Mission Technologies:
Sabrina Bailey, vice president of operations in Mission Technologies’ Fleet Sustainment business group, received a Special Recognition award.
Jaime Giles, a systems engineer in Mission Technologies’ LVC solutions business group, received a Technology All-Star award.
Christina Myers-Taylor, deputy program manager in Mission Technologies’ LVC Solutions business group, received a Top Women in Finance award.
Porsha Moore, a technical editor and writer in Mission Technologies’ LVC Solutions business group, received a Technology Rising Star award.
Isabel Santiago-Lewis, a network communications in Mission Technologies’ LVC Solutions business group, received a Technology Rising Star award.
“It wasn’t always easy, and I remember the challenges of being a first generation college student,” Bailey said as she accepted her award. “I know that those challenges still exist for so many today. I want to encourage everyone to persevere as you pursue your dreams. There is no limit to what you can accomplish.”
Connection and Gratitude
Perhaps one of the most special aspects of the conference was the personal stories shared of triumph over adversity and the daily challenges of personal life. Through the stories shared, dialogue ensued, and connections were made.
“After having some time to just sit and reflect on the last few days, I am filled with amazement,” Giles said. “To be surrounded by so many accomplished women who look like me gives me so much pride. I left Detroit with new friends and connections who have the same fire within them. Thank you to the HII executives and my new ‘sheroes’ for being open and vulnerable with us. You all are an inspiration.”
“Being here means that I’m being recognized, and I’m grateful for that so early on in my career,” Santiago-Lewis said. “To see that I have leadership that notices the work that I put in makes me feel grateful for the company that we are and the culture that we have.”
Hope for the Future
This wasn’t just any conference—it was a sanctuary of empowerment, excellence, understanding and support. The insights gained will serve as a transformative piece to many attendees’ journeys.
It’s about paving the way for the generations of women who would follow.
“We first speak for the change we want, and then we use tools and skills to improve the way we perform across the board,” Anderson said.
To learn more about the Women of Color STEM conference, visit: https://intouch.ccgmag.com/mpage/woc-stem-conference-home.
