The journey of Lewis Latimer began with growing up impoverished with no access to formal education. Eventually, Latimer became a prominent black figure in the energy sector as a chief draftsman, patent expert, and inventor. He laid the foundation for his inspiring legacy of leadership and philanthropy despite the economic and social challenges he faced. Latimer was a pioneer in the field of technology who made important contributions that served and uplifted the African American community.
Latimer is a symbol of perseverance and his contributions and advocacy for education have had a meaningful and long-lasting impact on not only African Americans, but the world. Today, the University of Houston’s National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) is continuing to build on Latimer’s legacy to increase participation in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. While representation in STEM is slowly improving, there’s still a long way to go in terms of access and opportunities. These NSBE students have accepted the challenge.
As we celebrate Black History Month, UH Energy recognizes several exceptional NSBE students as the next generation of energy leaders who are addressing real-world challenges with creativity and pioneering innovative solutions.
Serving as Academic Excellence Chair for UH’s NSBE chapter, Chemical Engineering student Funmilola Jesse is making incredible strides in STEM fields. As the host and producer of You Are Here: The Houston Energy Podcast, created by UH Energy Transition Institute, she explores critical energy topics with industry leaders and experts.
Although faced with some challenges as a first-generation college student, NSBE has been instrumental for her career development by providing networking opportunities, mentorship, and academic support. Funmilola remains inspired by the impact of African American leaders in STEM that came before her.
“The history of Black people in STEM represents resilience, innovation, and overcoming obstacles. At UH and beyond, Black engineers and scientists have paved the way for future generations, proving that representation matters. Their contributions inspire me to push forward and uplift others along the way. I hope to continue this legacy by mentoring young students.”
“There's no form of growth without discomfort!”
Nick Miller's motto "there's no form of growth without discomfort" has remained the same throughout his academic career at UH. As a dedicated Petroleum Engineering major with a minor in Energy and Sustainability, Nick is driven by a passion for transforming the energy sector through his mission to reduce global reliance on fossil fuels while advancing renewable energy solutions such as solar, wind, and hydropower.
With a desire to work internationally, Nick aspires to contribute to global sustainability and credits his experience in NSBE with providing the necessary tools to navigate different spaces while overcoming challenges.
“It has accelerated my networking experience - allowing me to meet others who look like me and experience some of the adversity and challenges I face,” said Miller. It means a lot to pay gratitude and appreciation to those who initiated the process of paving the foundation for more Black STEM scholars to explore and navigate those fields”.
Mechanical engineering student Ahmad McCray is excited to embark on his career journey to engineering leadership. Through NSBE, he has honed his networking skills and embraced many leadership opportunities leading him to becoming Vice President and Student Founder of the Black Men in Engineering Mentorship Network (BMEN), a mentorship program dedicated to advancing a network of current and future engineers.
He offered valuable advice to current and future students aiming to excel in STEM fields. “Never give up no matter what happens. Your path in STEM isn’t like everyone else's, so don’t worry too much about everyone else and do what you have to do to succeed,” he said. "Nothing is impossible until its done.”
Through their groundbreaking work, achievements, and unwavering determination to succeed and inspire, these UH students are among those leading the way for future generations of Black innovators in STEM, driving positive change in our world. They are a testament to Latimer’s lasting legacy.