3 Employees Remind Me Why I Celebrate Black History Month

Shari Briggs

Shari Briggs is the first recipient of our African American Professional Network (AAPN) Volunteer of the Year award. It’s a fitting tribute to a woman dedicated to service.

“I am a black woman with an engineering degree so that makes me part of a small group, yet as soon as I walked in the door of our company, I had a group of people ready to expand my network personally and professionally, and help me succeed,” Shari said. “That genuine concern and effort confirmed what I suspected: this is a place where I would have a thriving career.”

Shari’s path toward an engineering degree is uncommon for many underrepresented groups – something she wants to change.

“Many young people lack confidence in their math and science skills, and don’t have STEM role models so they don’t envision the career for themselves,” she said. “I am working to remove those barriers so they see a way forward.”

Marcus Taylor

Marcus Taylor’s work is changing lives.

Marcus is passionate about making a difference in the lives of Milwaukee Public School (MPS) youth through volunteering with Lead2Change.

Through Lead2Change, MPS students exposed to the skills and tools needed to be successful after high school, whether they choose an apprentice program, technical school or university. As a mentor for Lead2Change, Marcus works with high school-aged students interested in STEM, helping students understand their potential and become better equipped for engineering careers.

His mentorship has helped place students at engineering internships, including at Rockwell Automation, and two of his students recently earned full-ride scholarships to top-tier universities.

“For me, the biggest honor is these outcomes,” said Marcus. “These students feel better about themselves and what they offer to the world. My message to them is, you have infinite potential. If you keep your minds and hearts open, and choose a company like Rockwell Automation, you will have infinite opportunities.”

Marzell Brown

There’s no job title that precisely explains what Marzell Brown does, and few words capture who he is.

He’s eager to introduce young people to STEM, and make manufacturing a place people want to be – especially women and underrepresented youth.

“My passion is in developing our next generation of engineers and giving back to our communities,” said Marzell. “And through my work and the support of our company, I can do both.”

Dedicated and focused on student success, Marzell participates in a vast array of community, collegiate, advisory and professional boards to influence education and prepare students for a successful future.