February 2024 Member Highlight: Myesha Harris
WTS Metro Phoenix was excited to sit down with one of our most prominent members, WTS Metro Phoenix Vice President Myesha Harris! Chapter DEI Chair Fatemeh Sefid discussed navigating challenges, future initiatives and what the future holds for Myesha in our February highlight.
As a woman of color in a historically male-dominated field, how do you navigate and overcome any intersectional challenges you may face in your career?
As a woman of color in a male-dominated field, I have encountered challenges, but it has been incredibly rewarding to represent and serve as a leader for other woman, especially women of color. It is essential to show our youth that you can succeed in the science and engineering field. Women voices, knowledge and experiences are valuable.
In what ways do you think diversity and representation within transportation engineering can be improved to better honor the contributions of African American professionals?
Education and Outreach Programs
Implement initiatives that target education levels as early as kindergarten to high school. These programs can include mentorship, scholarships, and outreach activities to spark interest and provide support.
Visibility
Celebrate the contributions of engineering professionals through publications and public recognition.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Partner with organizations and institutions promoting diversity in engineering.
All are ways to become more inclusive and get a diverse talent pool leading to innovation and progress.
What does Black History Month mean to you? What is special about Black History Month?
I love Black History Month because it celebrates the Black culture and the achievement of, and contributions made by Black Americans. It is also a time to reflect on the people and events that have helped shape Black American History and culture, and to recognize the importance of the diverse voices that contribute to society.
I am happy to be a part of the Black American achievement. I have recently opened my own business. Red Velvet Bakery located in South Phoenix. By opening a business in an urban community along a public transit system, I am not only providing goods and services but also fostering economic growth and accessibility for a diverse customer base. My business serves as a platform for celebrating diversity, empowering local communities, and contributing to the ongoing narrative of Black excellence and inclusion.
