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**Show Notes: Get Uncomfortable Podcast Episode with Rochelle Forney**

**Introduction:**

- Host: Adam Smith

- Podcast: Get Uncomfortable

- Episode Title: "Breaking Biases and Building Resilience: A Black Woman Engineer's Journey"

- Guest: Rochelle Forney, Electrical Engineer at Ford Motor Company

**Key Points:**

**1. Introduction to Rochelle Forney:**

- Rochelle Forney, an electrical engineer at Ford Motor Company, shares her journey and experiences in the STEM field.

- Discussion about the challenges faced by historically marginalized groups in pursuing STEM education and careers.

**2. Background and Early Career:**

- Rochelle's background as a non-traditional student and a single mother.

- Transition from working in the mailroom at First Energy to pursuing engineering.

- A pivotal moment with the CEO of First Energy that opened doors for her and changed her life.

**3. Academic Challenges and Resilience:**

- Discussion about the challenges faced during college, retaking classes, and dealing with biases.

- The importance of resilience and the skills acquired from overcoming academic challenges.

**4. Creating Community and Support:**

- The significance of programs like Choose Ohio First in creating a supportive community for STEM students.

- The role of intentional community-building events and mentorship in navigating the challenges of college.

**5. Navigating Academic Barriers:**

- Advocacy for self in academia and the importance of sharing personal stories to create understanding.

- Challenges faced by non-traditional students and the need for educators to consider diverse backgrounds.

**6. Transition to Professional Life:**

- The distinction between studying engineering and practicing engineering.

- Discussion on the importance of soft skills, communication, and interpersonal abilities in the workplace.

**7. Facing Corporate Challenges:**

- Challenges and biases faced by a black woman in the corporate engineering space.

- Overcoming biases by breaking stereotypes and changing perceptions.

**8. Advice to Young Professionals:**

- Advice for young professionals entering the workforce, including being humble, asking questions, and breaking biases.

- The importance of listening to understand and build resilience.

**9. Conclusion:**

- Gratitude for the opportunities and support received throughout Rochelle's journey.

- Closing remarks and encouragement to stay uncomfortable.

**Closing:**

- Acknowledgment of the podcast's production team.

- Call to action for listeners to support the podcast through reviews, emails, or sharing episodes.

**Contact Information:**

- Host: Adam Smith - https://hearadamspeak.com/

- Podcast: Get Uncomfortable - https://getuncomfortablepodcast.com/

**Outro:**

- Thank you for listening to Get Uncomfortable.

- Stay tuned for more uncomfortable conversations and inspiring stories.

These show notes provide a concise summary of the podcast episode, highlighting key themes and takeaways for the audience.


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