27-year-old is the first Black woman to earn PhD in Nuclear Engineering at top US University

In an inspiring tale of resilience, determination, and groundbreaking achievement, Charlyne Smith, a 27-year-old Jamaican-born scientist, has made history by becoming the first Black person to earn a PhD in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Florida. This remarkable feat not only solidifies her place in the annals of academia but also opens doors for marginalized communities, especially Black women and men, in the nuclear energy space.

A Journey Rooted in Purpose

Born and raised in St. Catherine, Jamaica, Charlyne Smith’s journey to academic excellence began with a deep-seated desire to solve the energy challenges faced by her home country. Growing up, she witnessed firsthand the struggles of accessing reliable electricity, a challenge that fueled her ambition to find sustainable solutions. Her passion for energy solutions was initially directed toward solar energy, but after realizing the slower pace of technological advancements in that field, she turned her focus to nuclear engineering.

Smith’s academic journey took her to Coppin State University in Baltimore, Maryland, where she graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and Mathematics. It was during an alumni event at Coppin State University that she met Dr. Nickie Peters, a nuclear scientist who would profoundly influence her career trajectory. Dr. Peters’ insights led Smith to pursue a path in nuclear engineering, a field she believed could bring immediate change to energy-deprived regions like Jamaica.

Breaking New Ground at the University of Florida

Charlyne Smith’s pursuit of excellence led her to the University of Florida, where she embarked on a PhD program in Nuclear Engineering. Her research, which focused on the microstructural evolution of Uranium-Molybdenum and its implications for sustainable energy production, garnered her significant recognition. In 2018, Smith was awarded the prestigious National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, an honor bestowed upon only 2,000 recipients nationwide.

Smith’s research at the University of Florida was not just about academic curiosity—it was driven by a mission to make a tangible difference in the world. She believed that nuclear energy, with its potential for immediate impact, could play a pivotal role in displacing fossil fuels and addressing climate change. Her ultimate goal is to help the Caribbean, starting with Jamaica, transition to clean energy sources, thereby solving energy instability and contributing to global carbon neutrality goals.

A Visionary Leader for the Future

Beyond her academic achievements, Charlyne Smith is also a co-founder of Empowering Garrison Girls (EGGs), a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing gender and economic inequalities by empowering young girls in Jamaican garrison communities. Through EGGs, Smith aims to diversify the engineering field by creating educational programs that expose young students in Jamaica to a wide range of STEM disciplines. Her vision is to create a blueprint for STEM-based secondary institutions that will prepare the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.

Smith’s journey has been one of relentless pursuit of knowledge and a deep commitment to using her expertise for the betterment of society. Her work at the Breakthrough Institute as a Senior Nuclear Energy Analyst on the Nuclear Energy Innovation team further exemplifies her dedication to advancing nuclear technology as a viable solution for energy challenges.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Charlyne Smith’s achievements have not only set a new standard in the field of nuclear engineering but have also inspired countless individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities, to pursue their dreams despite the odds. Her story is a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and an unwavering belief in one’s ability to make a difference.

As the first Black person to earn a PhD in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Florida, Charlyne Smith has broken barriers and set a new precedent in academia. Her contributions to the field of nuclear engineering and her commitment to uplifting her community serve as a beacon of hope for future generations.

In her own words, Smith encapsulates her journey and mission: “For me, nuclear is the obvious immediate solution while renewable research takes some time to reach its maximum potential. I do this for my Grandfather. I do this for the survival of countries like mine.”

Charlyne Smith’s legacy is one of innovation, empowerment, and a relentless pursuit of a brighter future for all.

At just 19 years old, Amara Leggett has already accomplished feats that many would consider extraordinary. From earning her associate degree at 16 to graduating with a bachelor’s degree in computer science at 19, Amara’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, strategic planning, and the importance of seizing opportunities.

Amara’s story began in 8th grade when she attended a meeting about the Dual Enrollment program in Ohio. Intrigued by the possibility of taking college classes while still in high school, she enrolled in her first college course at just 14. This decision set her on a unique educational path, allowing her to graduate high school with 7 credits already completed, thanks to her attendance at a STEM junior high school.

The Dual Enrollment program enabled Amara to receive dual credits for her college classes, allowing her to graduate from both high school and college simultaneously. By the age of 16, she had earned her Associate of Science degree from Columbus State Community College just 10 days after receiving her high school diploma. This achievement not only marked a significant milestone in her life but also inspired her to help others achieve similar success. Click here to read more about Amara Leggett.

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