In celebration of Women’s History Month, I am shining the spotlight on a woman who overcame her insecurities about her aptitude in math and became a driving force in technology, demonstrating the profound impact women can have in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Aisha Bowe’s early journey into STEM was marked by self-doubt and external skepticism. Her early academic performance was not indicative of her future success as she did not think she had the aptitude to pursue a career in the sciences. It was a community college math professor who saw her potential and encouraged her to pursue engineering. This pivotal experience set Bowe on a trajectory that would lead her to obtain an undergraduate degree in aerospace engineering in 2008, and a master’s degree in space systems engineering in 2009 from the University of Michigan.
Bowe’s professional career started at NASA’s Ames Research Center, where she contributed to the development of air traffic management systems and worked on projects that would increase the safety and efficiency of air travel. Her work at NASA not only showcased her technical prowess but also her determination to excel in a field where women, especially women of color, are underrepresented. In 2012 she received the National Society of Black Engineers award for Outstanding Technical Contribution for her paper “Evaluation of a Fuel-Efficient Aircraft Maneuver for Conflict Resolution.”
While at NASA, Bowe served as a liaison to the Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) Program. In this role, she mentored students, held interview workshops, and led NASA site tours. From this experience and recognizing the disparities in access to STEM education and careers, particularly for underrepresented groups, Bowe co-founded STEMBoard in 2013. She bootstrapped the company into an eight-figure engineering powerhouse specializing in data analytics and IT modernization for large enterprises, while also addressing the educational gap in STEM fields through its outreach programs. STEMBoard’s commitment to empowerment through education is a testament to Bowe’s vision of a more inclusive and diverse technological future.
In June 2020, the company launched a new line of business, the development of LINGO, a kit that teaches teens the fundamentals of hardware and software design by helping them build a backup sensor used in autonomous vehicles and the code needed to make it work. LINGO, a STEM kit, is designed to engage students in underserved communities with the wonders of engineering and technology. By providing hands-on, practical experiences, LINGO aims to ignite a passion for STEM among students who might otherwise lack the resources or encouragement to pursue these fields. Through initiatives like LINGO, Bowe is not just talking about change; she is actively investing in the next generation of engineers, scientists and technologists.
Her impact extends far beyond her entrepreneurial and engineering endeavors. As a motivational speaker and mentor, she uses her platform to advocate for systemic change within STEM education and careers. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of representation, mentorship, and the transformative power of believing in one’s potential. By sharing her journey, Bowe inspires not just young girls but all individuals facing barriers to their dreams.
As Women’s History Month prompts us to reflect on the contributions of women across all sectors of society, Bowe’s story underscores the critical role of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation and progress. Her work challenges the status quo and paves the way for a future where girls and women in technology are not exceptions but celebrated members of the STEM community.
Bowe’s journey from an unsure student to a NASA engineer and a technology entrepreneur illustrates the boundless possibilities that emerge from resilience, hard work, and the courage to challenge stereotypes. Her dedication to empowering the next generation of girls in technology ensures her place in the ongoing narrative of women’s contributions to STEM. As we look to the future, Bowe’s story serves as a call to action, and a reminder of the power of inclusion, education, and the indomitable spirit of women who dare to dream.