S-STEM Scholars Coffee & Conversation – Charting the Future: Discover the Exciting World of STEM Careers 

Mr. Kahlil Andrews originally from Carson, CA, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Physics from Fisk University (2017) and a Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering from Tennessee State University (2021). He is currently a Senior Project Engineer at Smoot Construction in Washington, D.C., where he has played a key role in managing a project portfolio exceeding $150 million. Kahlil’s expertise lies in overseeing large-scale construction projects and ensuring successful project execution. In addition to his engineering career, he runs a successful math tutoring business that supports students in grades 2-12, helping them excel academically. His expertise spans both the engineering and education sectors, showcasing his passion for problem-solving and mentorship.

Dr. Dorian Davis is a dedicated STEM advocate and champion for diversity and equity in education. With leadership and engineering roles across the private sector, non-profits, government, higher education, and federal agencies, she brings a wealth of experience to her mission of strengthening STEM communities. Her international work in Canada, Germany, and Mexico has deepened her commitment to fostering inclusive practices that celebrate individual differences.

Dr. Davis holds a PhD and BS in Industrial and Systems Engineering from North Carolina A&T State University and an MS in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University. Currently, she serves as a Science Analyst at the National Science Foundation, and she is the Founder and President of Walker Davis Consulting Group, focusing on STEM and higher education consulting.

In her personal time, Dr. Davis enjoys mentoring, STEM advocacy, live theater, music events, and exploring new cities and countries.

Mr. Jose Hernandez, is an Electrical Engineer, and works at Beckman Coulter. He graduated from Florida International University in 2023 with a BS in Computer Engineering. He is passionate about 3D printing, electronics and robotics. As a hobby he enjoy outdoor activities like SCUBA diving.
His areas of expertise include 3D printing technology, electronics design and development, robotics and automation systems, embedded systems engineering, and circuit analysis and testing. Outside of his professional work, Jose enjoys outdoor activities, including SCUBA diving, hiking, and exploring nature. These hobbies provide him with a balance between his technical work and his love for the natural world, fueling his curiosity and sense of adventure.

Dr. Demisha Porter joined the 2-year Clinical Trial Operations Academy in Clinical Science and Innovation (CS&I) at Novartis from Virginia Tech where she received her PhD from the Translational, Biology, Medicine, and Health Graduate Program. Demisha brings over a background in developmental neuroscience and tissue regenerative medicine. Previously, she completed a post-baccalaureate certificate program at Virginia Commonwealth University and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology: Cell and Molecular track from King University.

Dr. Safira Sutton holds a B.S. and M.S. in Plant Science and Biotechnology from Fort Valley State University and Florida A&M University, respectively, and a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology from the University of Georgia. Over the past decade, she has contributed to advancements in agriculture by developing novel agricultural products, optimizing disease management for specialty crops, creating plant-microbe-based bioassays, and overseeing large-scale microbial production. She has been recognized as a national role model, received several accolades for research presentations, and secured grants to support sustainability and research education initiatives. Currently, Dr. Sutton is a Scientist at Bayer on the Plant Health Team, leading the production of large-scale microbe-based inoculum. In this role, she spearheads efforts to improve crops, primarily in North America, while collaborating globally to help Bayer fulfill its mission of “Health for all, Hunger for none.”