Mar’quis Bryant-Morgan is a mechanical engineer in Mission Technologies Nuclear and Environmental Services business group. Mar’quis was recently honored with the Science Spectrum Trailblazer Award at the 38th Black Engineer of the Year (BEYA) STEM Conference and holds a board of director position on Mission Technologies ERG, VOICE as treasurer.

 “I wanted to be an engineer before I knew what engineering was. My love for Legos and learning about nuclear power in college at Oregon State University (OSU) culminated my mindset of “building a sustainable energy future.” When I applied to HII, I ventured through the company’s landing page as I was curious to find out where I may be placed if hired. I found myself on the Mission Technologies page and funneled it down to the Nuclear & Environmental Group. Reading up on the capabilities of this business unit, I immediately concluded that our mission was the same. I apply the mindset daily as I look forward to continuing to support our DOE endeavors, that is where my heart lies.”

Going to college out-of-state was one of the most transformative experiences in my life. My first nuclear engineering class taught me about nuclear power and changed my entire perspective on the myths and assumptions many people would make when they hear the word “nuclear”. My colleagues and I reactivated the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) chapter and I became a charter member for the newly founded Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. chapter at OSU.

Holding the Treasure position for the VOICE ERG holds a special place in my heart. During the beginning of the pandemic, I came up with the idea to start a scholarship for Black students at OSU. I was extremely moved by the social justice movements at the time and wanted to do something amazing for my community. With minimal income and an idea, I put a team together and we created the Bryant-Morgan Scholarship. Up to this point, a total of $8,000 has been awarded. My scholarship is guided by the principles of Versatility, Integrity, and Perseverance. Students who apply are provided the opportunity to enhance their personal and professional development, technical writing, email etiquette, and their personal experience at OSU.”