The annual Technology Recognition Luncheon at the BEYA STEM Conference, which honors Modern Day Technology Leaders, is held on Friday. The event is sponsored by Aerotek, Boston Scientific, and World Wide Technology, Inc., a technology service provider co-founded by Black Engineer of the Year David Steward; the US Army, Ernst & Young, and The Boeing Company.

Click here to watch the BEYA 2020 Technology Recognition Luncheon

Emceeing the event for the second time is Dr. Robin Coger, one of the few female engineering deans in the United States.  She serves as chair of the Council of Engineering Deans at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (co-host of the BEYA STEM Conference). Dr. Coger’s co-emcee is veteran BEYA host Dr. Kendall Harris, provost and vice president for academic affairs at Texas Southern University.

“We have been doing this quite a while,” said Dr. Harris last year. “Through their involvement and role modeling, BEYA winners are increasing diversity, equity and inclusion in STEM and preparing the workforce for the future. Employer commitment to diversity has become a major factor in the selection of organizations that individuals choose to work for.”

Research shows that 78 percent of Americans want companies to address social issues. Currently, more than 550 CEOs of leading companies and organizations are leveraging their individual and collective voices to advance diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

“This luncheon celebrates the fact that the most important aspect of any company is its people,” said Dr. Coger. “A nominated employee is already a winner. And if the nomination results in an award it’s yet another win.”

Coger said competing for national recognition benefits companies by demonstrating the outstanding skills and experience of staff and it inspires other employees that appreciate their colleagues’ accomplishments, and experience good feelings about that company.

“The kind of acknowledgment that takes place at today’s Technology Recognition luncheon makes a positive impact on the culture of the participating organizations that have selected these outstanding men and women who will receive awards,” she said.

Click here to watch the BEYA 2020 Technology Recognition Luncheon