In March, Gresham Smith proudly participated in the historic 50th National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Convention held in Atlanta, Georgia. With over 18,000 enthusiastic attendees, this event marked a significant milestone in NSBE’s journey towards promoting innovation, diversity, and excellence in engineering and beyond. As advocates for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), we were thrilled to be part of this inspiring gathering, engaging with talented professionals, students, and leaders from diverse backgrounds, exchanging insights, building connections, and celebrating accomplishments.
We had involvement from across the firm, including representatives from our Transportation market, our Corporate Services group and leadership from our IMAGE (Inclusive Multiculturalism for Advancement, Growth and Equity) Employee Resource Network. Together, we hosted a series of events aimed at fostering networking, inspiration and support within the NSBE community. During the event, we held a number of sessions, including an energizing kickoff event to spark enthusiasm and camaraderie among participants and a networking affair in collaboration with the local NSBE Atlanta Professionals chapter to facilitate conversations and connections among professionals, students and recruiters. In addition, as a firm we demonstrated our commitment to nurturing future engineering leaders by sponsoring and participating in the NSBE Scholarship Gala, which honored outstanding achievements and provided scholarships to deserving students.
Because the event was held in Atlanta, we were also able to show off our renovated Midtown office and we offered an exclusive office tour to college students attending the event, allowing them to explore our workspace, meet our team and gain firsthand insights into our culture, values and projects. This behind-the-scenes experience provided valuable learning opportunities for aspiring engineers and professionals.
Caption: College students visited Gresham Smith’s Midtown office for a tour during the event.
Beyond our active participation in the convention, we’re proud to highlight the deep involvement of several of our employees in the NSBE community. Many of our team members are dedicated members of the Atlanta NSBE Professionals Chapter, a network committed to advancing STEM excellence and supporting career development.
At the convention, our employees’ dedication was recognized as the Atlanta NSBE Professionals Chapter, chaired by Garrison Ushery, received the esteemed “Chapter of the Year” award. This achievement underscores the leadership and impact of our team within the NSBE community. As active members of the Atlanta NSBE Professionals Chapter, our employees played pivotal roles in organizing and participating in various convention events, enriching the experience for attendees and showcasing our organization’s commitment to supporting NSBE and its members.
Caption: During the event, the Atlanta Professionals Chapter, which is led by Gresham Smith’s Garrison Ushery and Bryanna Saunders (pictured above), who serve as chair and president, respectively, was recognized as Chapter of the Year, Professional Development Program of the Year and Collegiate Initiative Program of the Year.
Investing in our employees’ engagement with organizations like NSBE strengthens our ties to the community and cultivates a culture of diversity, inclusion, and excellence within our organization. By empowering our employees to participate in NSBE and other professional associations, we enable them to grow as leaders, expand their networks, and contribute meaningfully to the engineering profession and beyond.
Reflecting on our experience, we express gratitude for the opportunity to support our employees, celebrate their achievements, and contribute to the success of NSBE and its mission. We eagerly anticipate continuing our partnership with NSBE, championing diversity, equity, and excellence in engineering for years to come. We extend heartfelt thanks to NSBE for organizing an unforgettable convention, and to all participants, sponsors, and supporters who made this milestone event possible. Here’s to the next 50 years of progress, impact, and inspiration!