Making A Difference: Empowering women an...

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Maxine Cain. 

Founder of STEM Atlanta Women, joins Money Making Conversations Masterclass to discuss her mission to increase diversity in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. She shares insights on how her organization bridges gaps for Black and Brown women in underserved communities and creates career pathways.

🔑 Key Themes & Highlights

1. Origins of STEM Atlanta Women

   • Founded in 2016, the organization was inspired by Maxine’s challenges as an HR leader in a Fortune 500 company, where recruiting women of color into innovation roles was difficult.
   • She recognized a lack of representation and cultural barriers that discouraged women from entering STEM careers.
   • Her background in corporate event planning and business development helped her secure sponsorships for STEM-focused initiatives.

2. Summerhill Community Hub

   • The organization operates out of a two-story loft space in Summerhill, Atlanta, a historically underserved community.
   • Summerhill lacked essential resources, including a bank and grocery store, for over 60 years.
   • Partnered with Carter Development, which helped provide space for STEM education and community programming.

3. STEM Education & Outreach

   • Works closely with local schools, including King Middle School, Carver Early College, Maynard Jackson High School, and Georgia State University.
   • Runs programs designed to introduce young girls to STEM careers, helping them build confidence and skills early.

4. Annual STEM Events

   • STEMinist Ball celebrates young women excelling in STEM fields by awarding crystal trophies, certificates, and graduation cords at a black-tie event.
   • STEM in the City is an afterschool program that exposes students to emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, drone technology, and flavor science with Coca-Cola.
   • Collaborated with Usher’s New Look Foundation and IBM to introduce artificial intelligence concepts to students.

5. College & Workforce Development

   • Partners with Clark Atlanta University and Emory University to provide certification programs in business intelligence and emerging technology.
   • Works with major corporations to create career pathways for Black talent.
   • Helps underserved individuals gain industry-recognized certifications for high-paying tech jobs.

6. Vision & Impact

   • Maxine started STEM Atlanta Women to create opportunities for young women who lacked access to STEM education.
   • She emphasizes mentorship, representation, and hands-on learning to help future leaders navigate STEM careers.

📘 Resources & Contact Information
Dr. Maxine Cain’s work is accessible through:
🔗 Website: STEM Atlanta Women
🔗 Social Media: @STEMAtlantaWomen

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