Carlotta Berry, PhD: From Robotics to Representation + Empowering Diversity in STEM - 067

Explore how Carlotta Berry, PhD, a pioneering Black woman professor in electrical and computer engineering, transforms STEM education and visibility through her leadership, advocacy, and creativity.In this inspiring conversation with Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya, discover the origins of "Black in Engineering" and "Black in Robotics," strategic insights for combating AI bias, and actionable advice for women and minorities in STEM to own their uniqueness. Discover how multidisciplinary approaches, mentorship, intentional advocacy, and aligning your mission empower the next generation of diverse engineers and changemakers. Relevant for those seeking to amplify diversity, equity, and inclusion in technical fields.Social Linkshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/carlotta-berry-phd/https://www.instagram.com/drcaberryhttps://www.tiktok.com/@drcaberryhttps://twitter.com/drcaberryhttps://bsky.app/profile/drcaberry.bsky.socialWho Is This For?This episode is for Black women and other underrepresented groups in STEM, aspiring and established engineers, leaders seeking to expand diversity and inclusion, educators, students, and anyone passionate about making STEM more accessible, visible, and impactful for historically marginalized communities.FAQsWho is Carlotta Berry?A tenured professor and endowed chair in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, founder of Black in Engineering, Black in Robotics, and Noire Stemminist, and an advocate for diversity in STEM 00:02:01.What are Black in Engineering and Black in Robotics?Nationwide affinity groups supporting Black engineers and roboticists through mentorship, workshops, funding, and visibility, birthed from the Black in X movement during the pandemic 00:16:04.How does Carlotta Berry approach combating bias in STEM and AI?By being visibly present, educating about bias, and intentionally building diverse communities within tech spaces 00:04:49.What advice do Adaeze and Carlotta give to women in STEM?Embrace all your unique talents, take action to gain clarity, align your work with your authentic self and mission, and don't undervalue your contributions or do all work for free 00:23:38.How can I get involved or support the mission?Join Black in Engineering/Robotics, share your work online for visibility, seek funding opportunities through these organizations, and support diverse leadership in STEM 00:22:21.Key Moments & TimestampsVisibility and Representation in EngineeringCarlotta on the importance of being seen in academia and the birth of "Black in Engineering" and "Black in Robotics" 00:00:00Making STEM Accessible and FunAdeze asks how to balance technical expertise with playfulness in outreach 00:04:12Navigating AI, Bias, and RepresentationCarlotta on intentional adoption of AI and the importance of diverse voices in technology 00:04:48Embracing Multidisciplinary and Authentic LeadershipCarlotta reflects on bringing her whole self to her work and the unique challenges Black women face 00:08:35Impact and Legacy: Changing the Face of STEMCarlotta describes her vision to inspire the next generation and make STEM inclusive of all interests, including art and fashion 00:30:34