Today we’d like to introduce you to Quinn Woodard.
Quinn, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’m a recent author who published, Like Me, a children’s book in October 2019. The book aims to expose young minds to the world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math). My STEM journey started when I enrolled in Project Lead the Way courses while in high school. Project Lead The Way provides transformative learning experiences for PreK-12 students and teachers across the U.S. Since completing Project Lead the Way, I then went on to the University of Tulsa, where I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. While at TU, I researched autonomous game-playing robots and began mentoring at the North Tulsa UWCA TechGyrls. After completing my undergraduate degree, I transitioned to the energy industry and continued mentoring in my spare time. I’ve taken on several speaking engagements, participated in panels, and served on curriculum advisory committees. I jump at any opportunity to get in front of students and share my story, hear their dreams, and provide them with guidance along the way. It was while speaking at a conference, the idea of the book came about. For young minds to be successful in STEM, they need to be exposed to it early. With my book, Like Me, I hope to provide that introduction.
Has it been a smooth road?
My journey to publishing had its challenges—myself being the biggest barrier. I initially thought there were many other stories being told that were better than mine. I thought there were much better writers than myself. Once I got out of my own head, I sat down to write the story and finally sent off the manuscript. Deciding to go with the hybrid publishing option meant much of the marketing was based on how much I was willing to do. It’s been a fun journey. I’ve been slowly building my children’s literature network and leveraging many connections I have through the energy industry & previous school engagements.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
My background is in Electrical Engineering, but I currently work as an Advisor in the Energy Industry. I’d characterize myself as a STEM Advocate, Speaker, Mentor and most recently, an Author. As previously mentioned, I jump at the opportunity to get in front of students. I recently had the pleasure and honor of serving as a co-emcee for the Project Lead the Way Conference in Anaheim, CA.
The book, Like Me, follows young Zoey as she figures out what she wants to be for her class’ upcoming career day. While Zoey’s friend, Liza, is excited and ready to tell the world how much she wants to be a scientist, Zoey struggles. As she says in the book, “It’s difficult to see what I can be when no one looks like me.” Liza helps Zoey understand what strengths she currently has and how they can aid her in becoming successful in the world of STEM. At the end of the book, a nod is given to pioneers who came before Zoey. Dr. Mae Jemison and Katherine Johnson are a couple of individuals highlighted in the book.
Since the release of the book, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in Writer’s Week at Hazelwood High School in Saint Louis, MO where I was able to give a talk on the power of affirmation. The book has allowed me to visit several schools in St. Louis, Tulsa, and Bakersfield.
Continuing with the theme of exposing young minds to STEM, I recently debuted my first STEM Jersey. It features Dr. Mae Jemison. I played sports my entire childhood and throughout high school. I loved wearing my jersey to school. While in elementary and middle school, jersey day was always a big thing. I always wondered, what jersey does the kid wear who doesn’t care about sports? This [STEM jersey] is another option the jersey has always been a sense of pride. This particular jersey serves as a conversation starter, from the name, the jersey numbers, to the logos. It’ll provide another opportunity for children to dive into the world of STEM and learn more about pioneers who came before.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I’m relatively new to Houston this time around. I previously lived in a few years back, but only for a year. So I’m still exploring. I think many people would echo me when I say food and culture are bright spots for the city. Coming from a smaller city, I’d say there are opportunities with the traffic. I’ve learned to keep a good podcast or audiobook queued up for those situations.
Contact Info:
- Website: likemebook.com
- Email: info@qwoodard.com
- Instagram: likeme.book
- Twitter: qwoodard2
- Other: qwoodard.com
Image Credit:
Kenwin Jones, David Coston
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