Black Girls Do Engineer Podcast

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What does it really mean to “see the whole picture” in STEM?

In this episode, Kara Branch sits down with Krystal Porter, Systems Engineer and technology leader, to break down what systems engineering actually looks like in the real world. From solving complex problems to connecting technology, strategy, and people, Krystal shares how systems engineers help organizations think bigger and operate smarter.

This conversation gives listeners a real “day in the life” look into systems engineering, including the technical and leadership skills required to succeed, how AI and emer...

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When people think about technology, they often focus on coding—but behind every app, website, and digital platform is someone intentionally building the experience users interact with every single day.

In this episode, Kara Branch sits down with Tamara Trotter, frontend engineer and technology leader, to break down what frontend engineering really looks like beyond the screen. From designing user-friendly experiences to solving technical problems in real time, Tamara shares how creativity, strategy, and engineering all come together in her work.

This conversation gives listeners a real “day...

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There’s a narrative out there about HBCUs, but the results tell a different story.

In this episode, Kara Branch sits down with Kia Smith, Regional Supplier Quality Manager, to talk about what it really looks like to go from an HBCU to leading at a high level in STEM. From managing global teams to overseeing multi-million-dollar portfolios, Kia’s career reflects what strong preparation and execution look like in real time.

This conversation goes beyond inspiration—it’s about outcomes. Kia shares how her HBCU experience shaped h...

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What separates someone who follows instructions from someone who leads, solves, and innovates?

In this episode, Kara Branch breaks down one of the most important—and often overlooked—skills in STEM: critical thinking. While many students are taught what to learn, far fewer are taught how to think, analyze, and solve problems in real-world situations.

Through the lens of a “day in the life” in STEM careers, this episode explores what critical thinking actually looks like on the job—from diagnosing problems and making decisions to navigating uncertaint...

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What does life really look like after you graduate with an engineering degree?

In this episode, BGDE founder and CEO Kara Branch sits down with Cameron Bonds, a recent LSU graduate and Manufacturing Engineer, to talk about the transition from college to career—and what it actually feels like to step into your first role in STEM.

Cameron shares her journey from early STEM exposure to navigating college as a mechanical engineering student, and ultimately stepping into her role in industry. She gives a real lo...

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What does it really take to build a career in STEM—and know you belong in every room you walk into?

In this episode, BGDE founder and CEO Kara Branch sits down with Nasha Ross, a Senior Project Manager, engineer, entrepreneur, and leader with over 20 years of experience navigating and leading in STEM spaces.

Through real conversation, Nasha breaks down what “Project Manager life” actually looks like—from managing complex projects to leading teams and making decisions that impact real people and communities. She also shares h...

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What does it look like when you combine data, creativity, and purpose into one career?

In this episode, BGDE founder and CEO Kara Branch sits down with Isabel, a Senior Data Advisor whose journey proves that you don’t have to choose between technical and creative—you can build a career that blends both.

From studying computer science to working in business intelligence and transitioning into user experience and advisory roles, Isabel shares how she navigated her path with intention, curiosity, and confidence. She breaks down...

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What if the future workforce isn’t just hired—but intentionally built?

In this episode, BGDE founder and CEO Kara Branch sits down with Kalynn Brown, a Human Resources Business Partner, to unpack what HR is really seeing behind the scenes when it comes to talent, skills, and the future of work—especially in STEM.

Kalynn brings a powerful perspective from the front lines of workforce development, where she partners with leaders and organizations to align people, performance, and long-term strategy. She shares insight into the gr...

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What does it look like when a parent becomes a true partner in their child’s STEM journey?

In this episode, BGDE founder and CEO Kara Branch sits down with Tiffany, a BGDE parent and leader in digital transformation, learning, and technology, to talk about the real impact of early STEM exposure—from both a professional and personal perspective.

Tiffany shares how she discovered Black Girls Do Engineer, what stood out about the programming, and how she has seen her child grow in confidence, skills, and...

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The future is not waiting—and neither can we.

In this episode, Kara Branch breaks down why investing in STEM training for our children is no longer optional, but essential. As technology continues to reshape industries and redefine careers, the gap between those who are prepared and those who are not is growing fast.

This conversation goes beyond inspiration and gets into the reality: early exposure builds confidence, but consistent training builds readiness. With real data and practical insight, Kara explains why waiting until high school—or even college—is alr...

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Artificial Intelligence is no longer a trend — it’s infrastructure.

It’s shaping hiring decisions, automating jobs, influencing classrooms, and redefining entire industries in real time. The question is no longer whether our children will use AI. The real question is whether they will understand it.

In this episode, Kara Branch breaks down why AI literacy is becoming as foundational as reading and math — and why waiting to prepare is no longer an option. With workforce data, real examples, and clear next steps, this conversation goes beyond hype to focus on...

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College readiness doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built with intention.

In this episode, BGDE founder and CEO Kara Branch sits down with Reagan, a BGDE National STEM Ambassador, longtime member, and high school senior preparing for college. Reagan shares how her journey with Black Girls Do Engineer helped her develop confidence, leadership, and real-world skills that go far beyond the classroom.

Together, they talk about what it means to be college-ready on purpose—through early exposure to STEM, hands-on learning, mentorship, and belonging to a com...

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Today, Kara Branch is answering the questions people ask the most—clearly, honestly, and without the confusion.

In this episode, Kara breaks down 26 of the most common questions from parents, partners, educators, and community members so there’s no misunderstanding about BGDE’s mission, values, or vision for the future.

BGDE centers Black girls because the data demands it—but the work is rooted in inclusiveness, equity, and community-wide impact. This episode explains how intentional access, real training, and early preparation are the foundation of strong S...

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STEM conversations often focus on who is missing, but this episode expands the conversation to how we build a future that includes all of our children.

In this solo episode, BGDE founder and CEO Kara Branch addresses the growing gap facing Black boys in STEM and why early access, representation, and skill-building matter. Drawing from data, lived experience, and years of community work, Kara breaks down where the pipeline breaks, which skills are often missed, and how early disengagement impacts long-term opportunity.

This episode also introduces ...