Tiffani Teachey finds joy in exploring new destinations through travel and cherishing quality moments with her loved ones and friends. Music has a special place in her heart, and she finds solace and inspiration through its melodies. However, what truly fuels Tiffani’s spirit is the opportunity to make a tangible difference in her community. She’s actively involved in mentoring programs and dedicated to giving back to those in need. As a member of civic and professional organizations such as Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, The Links, Incorporated, and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Tiffani strives to positively impact the lives of others, particularly our youth, through mentorship and empowerment.
Do you think that having an educational background and experience in mechanical engineering helps you while in the STEM and mentoring program?
Having a background in mechanical engineering and practical experience in the field undoubtedly enhances my ability to mentor students in STEM programs. My educational foundation equips me with a deep understanding of the subject matter, enabling me to provide precise information and valuable guidance to aspiring STEM professionals, especially those interested in mechanical engineering. The combination of my academic achievements and professional track record amplifies my credibility as a mentor, fostering trust and confidence in the students I support.
What would you like most for the children you work with and mentor to gain from being part of your mentorship?
My ultimate goal for the children I mentor is to see them become confident, capable individuals who are inspired to pursue their passions in STEM. I want them to gain a solid foundation of knowledge and skills in their chosen disciplines, fostering a curiosity-driven mindset and encouraging hands-on learning experiences. Additionally, I aim to impart important life skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, which will not only benefit them in STEM careers but also in various aspects of their lives.
Can you share a few key values regarding the STEM program?
Here are three key values emphasized in the STEM program:
- Inclusivity: STEM programs prioritize inclusivity, embracing diversity in backgrounds and perspectives to foster innovative problem-solving. They create an environment where everyone feels welcome and supported, regardless of their gender, race, or socioeconomic status.
- Collaboration: Collaboration is fundamental in STEM programs, encouraging students to work together, exchange ideas, and engage in team-based projects. By leveraging collective strengths, students learn effective communication and problem-solving skills.
- Critical Thinking: STEM programs develop critical thinking skills, teaching students to analyze information, evaluate evidence, and think logically. This cultivates a mindset of questioning, curiosity, and rigorous problem-solving approaches.
You’re also an international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z” Can you tell us what was the motivation for writing it?
The motivation behind writing my children’s book, “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” stemmed from my experiences as an engineer visiting schools to speak about STEM. During these visits, I would ask the children if they had ever met an engineer, and only a few or no hands would go up. However, after engaging them in hands-on STEM activities and sharing how exciting and enjoyable engineering can be, I would ask the same question again. This time, to my delight, every hand would go up. This eye-opening moment made me realize the importance of representation in STEM fields.
Recognizing the need to provide children with accessible information about diverse STEM careers, I decided to put my insights into writing. I saw an opportunity to bridge the gap and inspire young minds by introducing them to the vast array of possibilities in STEM. Determined to make a difference, I embarked on a journey to learn the art of writing and publishing a children’s book. I saw a training opportunity through book coach Crystal Swain-Bates on how to publish your bestselling book in a 5-day challenge and learned the publishing process.
With careful timing and dedication, I successfully published “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” targeting children between the ages of 5 and 8. This book serves as a valuable resource for young readers to explore and learn about various STEM careers in an engaging and approachable way.
As a host on Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia, what is the focus and target audience for your show? How can individuals tune in and be a guest?
The focus of the Read it Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia is to provide valuable information and resources to parents and educators who want to support and encourage their children’s engagement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields. The target audience for the show is parents and educators who are interested in learning more about STEM education, opportunities, future trends, and ways to empower their children to pursue STEM interests.
With all that you are currently involved in, what are you looking forward to most in 2023?
In 2023, I am most excited about my upcoming trip to Italy as a speaker at an Author’s Retreat hosted by Script to Virtue Collection focusing on STEM education and publishing. As a publishing consultant and owner of Inspired Authors Publishing, it’s a fantastic opportunity to share various publishing tips in Italy. I help underrepresented industry leaders publish children’s books about their field to inspire children to choose the same path.
As a STEM advocate, author, speaker, I help kids excel in math and science by using STEM tools so that they no longer have to miss out on access to college scholarships, accelerated courses, and early college credit. In Italy I look forward to providing hands-on STEM activities and promoting my book, “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z.” I plan to have the Italian translation of the book available as a added bonus for the children. Additionally, I’ve recently published the first book in my STEM Crew Kids Adventures Series, “Building a Balloon Powered Car,” with more books to come.
My goal is to continue sharing my books in schools, bookstores, and libraries while representing internationally on various speaking platforms and media. My mission is to inspire children to become leaders through STEM, and my vision is to achieve economic empowerment for young children worldwide.
What do you hope our readers gain from this interview?
My primary hope for your readers through this interview is to inspire and motivate them to pursue their passions and make a positive impact in their communities. I want them to realize that they have the power to chase their dreams and create meaningful change. By sharing my personal journey and involvement in mentoring programs, I aim to ignite curiosity and enthusiasm for STEM fields, particularly among young readers, and emphasize the importance of diverse voices and perspectives in driving innovation and creating an inclusive future.
For more information about Tiffani please visit www.tiffaniteachey.com. For a free STEM gift 10 STEM Scholarships and Organizations ebook at www.stemistheway.com. For free publishing tips go to www.publishtherightbook.com
Photo Credits: Provided Photos
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