Welcome to the Summer 2019 issue of Winds of Change! As I paged through this latest edition, I kept thinking about one quote from graduate student Robbie Jimerson (see “Top Jobs in Computer Science”). “Any way I can help my community is what I want to do,” he says of his work using sophisticated technology skills to preserve his Seneca language.
That comment struck me because I think the same sentiment drives many of us who are committed to the AISES mission. We are working together to advance the progress of Indigenous people in STEM and, in turn, to make sure those skills benefit our developing communities.
You can read about STEM professionals doing just that, and meet specialists like Paul Crocker of Menominee Tribal Enterprises. He describes data collection that’s helping the forest team make better decisions, noting he’s “amazed that foresters were able to [assess resources] in the past without GIS.” You’ll read that applying innovative technology to the challenge of managing tribal forests, land, and natural resources isn’t supplanting the knowledge of those “past foresters,” but making it more nimble in these challenging times.
We are working together to advance the progress of Indigenous people in STEM and, in turn, to make sure those skills benefit our developing communities.
Another GIS user is “mom in science” Dawn D. Davis, who writes about being an Indigenous student and mother in Last Word. And as always, you can catch up with news from AISES and other members in AISES Notebook, investigate opportunities for aspiring and current STEM professionals in Career Builder, and read about academic news and opportunities in Paths in Education.
The part of the magazine I turn to first is AISES People, which I can count on for stories of amazing members like Dr. Grace Bulltail. One thing she talks about is the value she places on her community’s traditions. “My Crow heritage is central to my identity and my values,” she says, explaining that she looks forward to reuniting with family and friends at the annual Crow Fair in Montana.
Like Dr. Bulltail and many of you, we are also looking forward to this favorite season of family gatherings, powwows, and reconnecting with our communities. But around the AISES office, summer is also a busy time because we are in the midst of planning for the 2019 National Conference. It’s coming up October 10 to 12 in Milwaukee, so be sure to make your plans and register now — you won’t want to miss this one. You’ll be able to attend the largest College and Career Fair in Indian Country, not to mention thought-provoking sessions. You’ll also enjoy formal and informal networking opportunities, and have the chance to connect with old friends and make many new ones. See you in Milwaukee!
Ta’Tura Tsiksu (With Much Respect),
Sarah EchoHawkPawnee Nation of OklahomaAISES Chief Executive Officer