March 9, 2020
Higher education gives a person an opportunity to succeed in todayโs global economy. Modern colleges and universities provide their students with various programs aimed at preparing them for different economic sectors and more focused careers that require specialized training (i.e. Engineering, Medicine, Law, Finance).
When Calethia isn't wearing her hard hat, she wears many other hats that includes being a wife and mom. She enjoys traveling, reading, exploring entrepreneurship opportunities, mentoring, and raising a busy toddler.
Introducing Calethia Johnson
Tell us what do you do?ย
I am a Manager of Construction Procurement Projects at a major healthcare system in the metro Atlanta area. I am responsible for planning and managing the procurement process for healthcare construction projects, which includes planning, bid analysis, cost control, contract administration, and quality control.
In the grand scheme of things, my career has predominantly encompassed facility management, construction procurement, and construction project management (design through build). As an Assistant Chief Engineer, with the federal government, I provided technical expert consultation to medical center Executive Management for all issues relative to the areas of engineering (Space and Functional Planning, Project Engineering, Maintenance & Operations, Biomedical Engineering, and Safety).ย
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What is your educational background?ย
I have Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from Mercer University, Macon Ga. and a M.S. in Health Care Administration from Mercer University, Atlanta GA.ย
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Why a STEM major?ย
I absolutely love science, math, and problem solving. It was a natural progression after graduating from a Health Science and Engineering High School (with a focus on Engineering).
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Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?ย
Heroes: Who else deserves credit and has played a meaningful role in your life and/or career?
My mom played a pivotal role in my success. She taught me that what I learn, no one can ever take from me. What I learn, I own and can use it to my benefit. She also taught me that I can do and be anything. Most importantly, on my hardest days, she never let me quit.
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Skills from childhood: What are some important skill-sets to develop that you think is necessary to have in life?
1. Research things for yourself, don’t just take someone’s word.
2. Dig into the details. There’s so much more than what lies on the surface.
3. Never be afraid to take the road less traveled. There are often undiscovered gems along the way.
4. If there is not an opportunity, create one.
5. Don’t quit. If you feel you can’t do something, find a way or make a way.
6. Be honest when you don’t know something and find out what you need to know. That’s how you learn.
Staying Motivated: How do you stay motivated when times get tough?ย
I think about the generations of people that came before me to lay the foundation for the opportunities that are afforded to me. My achievements are not just for me and my family, they are for my ancestors and my future generations.
What is your definition of success?
Attaining self-fulfillment and walking in your purpose, on purpose, while reaching back to help others.
Any major accomplishments you would like to share?
While I have had several accomplishments over the past few years in my career; one that I can say I am most proud of is being the first African American Engineer at a previous employer. I was in complete awe that people wanted to come see who I was because I was a unicorn. ๐ It melted my heart to have older women hug me saying how proud they were of me that I had made history.
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If you could tell your younger self ONE thing, what would it be?
Your dreams are never too big and never impossible. Just figure out how to make them happen. Most importantly, seek God’s direction for your purpose. He will direct your path.
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One piece of advice you would give to up and coming aspiring students majoring in STEM?
Nike said it best, “Just do it!”
This blog post is dedicated to highlighting amazing women in STEM who are trailblazers in their respective professions.ย From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity.ย They continue to break barriers even till this day, which serves as a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology.
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