In honor of Black History Month (BHM), we will be introducing you to Black Engagement Council (BEC) members throughout the month of February. More information about Black History Month and the BEC’s 2022 BHM celebration is included at the end of this article.
Chukwunyere Anthony Uwakwe
Heritage (Nationality or Ethnicity): Nigerian American
Favorite Black Historical Figure: Olaudah Equinao
Favorite Quote: “Many are called but few are chosen.” – Jesus Christ, Matthew 22:14
Years at EB: Three +
Department: 241
Title/Position at EB: Operations Supervisor
Title/Position in BEC: Director of External Programs
How would you answer the question: Who are you?
I was born and raised in Nigeria and came to America at the age of 16. I went to college in the beautiful country roads of West Virginia at West Virginia University, where I received my undergraduate degree in Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering. I decided to use my love for traveling as an opportunity to study at Cranfield University in the UK, where I received a master’s degree in Offshore and Ocean Technology with Subsea Engineering in 2016. I began my professional career as a Structural Designer at Bath Iron Works (BIW) in 2017, and later transitioned to become an Electrical Designer for D456 at Electric Boat. At this time, I joined the Black Engagement Council (BEC) and have been an active participant for the past three years. After spending nine months in D456, I transitioned to D411 as a Sustainment Engineer for the Virginia Class. After two years in that department, I transitioned to become an Operations Supervisor for D241.
My family is from the Igbo tribe, and when I’m not working, I like to spend time with my family and friends, go to the beach, travel to new places, try new food delicacies and watch soccer (especially Arsenal FC), history, crime shows and more.
Why do you like working at Electric Boat?
I enjoy working at EB because I am able to merge my passion for the ocean and engineering. EB allows me the privilege of seeing the construction and design of future marine technology come to success. I truly enjoy the challenge that comes with solving problems in a fast-paced environment. I really enjoy the team environment and working with the best shipbuilders in the world.
Why does the BEC matter to you?
The BEC matters to me because it supports the community and allows me to work with like-minded co-workers who have fostered the growth of my professional career. The people I have met in the BEC have improved my professional network and connections within the community. The commitment the BEC has to the community to increase and improve Black professionals’ capacity to excel is what initially attracted me to the organization. I would not be in my current position if not for the advice and help from the BEC members and advisors.
Asia Terry
Heritage (Nationality or Ethnicity): African American
Favorite Black Historical Figure: Frederick Douglass
Favorite Quote: “People will forget what you said and did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
Years at EB: Nine +
Department: 684
Title/Position at EB: Program Office Representative
Title/Position in BEC: BEC Member and former BEC Treasurer (2014 – 2016)
How would you answer the question: Who are you?
I was born and raised in Syracuse, New York and graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. I began my career at EB in July 2012 with D487, where I oversaw the development of butterfly valves for the Columbia Class. From D487, I transferred to D201 where I supported various projects, including leading the pilot of Augmented Reality at Quonset Point. From D201, I was accepted into the Professional Rotation Program, where I am currently supporting Brian Pringer and Ray Melancon with offsite maintenance and modernization, as well as Taylor LaLonde with the Hartford engineering overhaul (EOH). Outside of work I enjoy crafting, knitting, gardening, reading, web development and Korean dramas.
Why do you like working at Electric Boat?
Electric Boat has allowed me to have many unique experiences and opportunities that I do not believe I would have received anywhere else. There is a wealth of history here, many people to learn from and the work that we do is meaningful.
Why does the BEC matter to you?
I joined the BEC early in my career, and it has not only fostered meaningful relationships and connections, but has pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped strengthen me as a person.
Black History Month (BHM) is an annual celebration, originating in the United States, where a specific time is set aside to recognize and acknowledge the many accomplishments and contributions African Americans have made and their central role in U.S. history. Globally, it is a way of remembering important people and events in the history of the African diaspora.
Black History Month began in 1926 as a week-long event encouraging the coordinated teaching of the history of Black Americans in the nation’s public schools. A specific week in February was chosen because it coincided with the birthday of Abraham Lincoln on February 12 and of Frederick Douglass on February 14; both of which are dates Black communities had celebrated together since the late 19th century. After initial lukewarm response, the celebration grew to a month-long celebration in February 47 years later. The first celebration of Black History Month took place at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio in 1970.
The Black Engagement Council (BEC) is celebrating BHM with a series of events and information posted to Homeport. Check the Homeport Calendar and the weekly EB Community News email to learn more about Black history and upcoming events. For more information, please contact EB_BEC@gdeb.com.
