For many young people, pursuing a career in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) begins with exposure and representation – seeing someone who looks like them succeeding in the field and realizing those opportunities are within reach.
Research suggests that lack of exposure remains one of the biggest barriers facing Black students interested in STEAM careers. A 2024 report from YouScience and Black Girls Do STEM found that Black students were 51% less likely to be exposed to careers in computers and technology than their aptitude towards those careers would suggest. In other words, while many students have the skills to succeed in technology fields, they are less likely to be introduced to those careers or understand the pathways to pursue them.
The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Detroit Professionals Chapter is dedicated to closing the exposure gap. By providing networking, scholarships, professional development, and hands-on learning, the organization supports Black students and professionals in discovering career pathways and building a strong pipeline of future innovators.
The Power of Exposure and Representation
For NSBE Detroit Chair, Jamal Longwood, the organization’s impact is personal. As a college student, he joined his collegiate NSBE chapter in Atlanta and quickly found himself surrounded by professionals whose careers expanded his understanding of what was possible.
“I saw people that looked like me in these amazing rooms at Apple or at General Motors or at Ford,” he said. “And I always wondered, how can I get in those spaces too?”
Through NSBE, Jamal gained access to internships, mentorship and professional development opportunities that helped launch his engineering career. Today, he is committed to ensuring students in Detroit have access to those same experiences.
Investing in Students’ Futures
This year, support from the Song Foundation helped sponsor student participation in national STEAM conferences and educational seminars.
NSBE helps students access experiences such as the NSBE National Convention, where students and professionals gather from across the country to network, learn and celebrate Black excellence in engineering and related fields.
“The first time I went, that was my first time seeing so much Black excellence, Black engineers, different professionals in all these different industries, energy, automotive, aerospace, tech,” Jamal reflected. For many attendees, the experience reinforces that they are part of something larger than themselves. Those experiences can be especially meaningful for students who may feel isolated in their classrooms or academic programs.
“You might be the only one in your classroom, but you’re not the only one nationwide,” he added.
Creating Opportunities Through Mentorship
During the 2025-2026 program year, NSBE Detroit hosted eight general body meetings, four social events, six collaborative events and three collegiate and pre-collegiate engagement opportunities. The chapter also launched its LinkedIn page, introduced chapter merchandise and continued building connections between students, professionals and industry leaders throughout the region.
The organization’s Pre-College Initiative engages students directly through school visits and educational programming that help introduce young people to engineering concepts and career possibilities at an early age.
NSBE Detroit also partners with organizations across the region to expand its impact. During Engineers Week each February, the chapter hosts a variety of events, including educational tours, community activities and its annual Black History Month Summit, which brings together industry leaders to discuss topics such as technology, innovation and AI.
A Lasting Impact
The impact of NSBE’s work can be seen through student leaders like Deja Jackson, a recent graduate of Lawrence Technological University.
When Deja became involved with her collegiate NSBE chapter, the organization had become dormant. Through her leadership and support from NSBE Detroit professionals, she helped rebuild the chapter and create a sustainable foundation for future students. Her efforts ultimately earned national recognition when the chapter received Small Chapter of the Year honors. Stories like Deja’s demonstrate the importance of mentorship, leadership development and investing in the next generation.
Looking Ahead
As the organization continues to grow, NSBE Detroit remains focused on expanding opportunities for students and young professionals throughout the region. Membership has increased significantly in recent years with now 44 members. This directly shows the growing interest in the chapter’s mission and programming.
The organization is also exploring new professional development opportunities, including certification programs and expanded workforce development initiatives designed to help members strengthen their skills and advance their careers.
As Jamal reflected on the organization’s mission, the goal is simple: “We want the whole community to be successful.” NSBE Detroit is helping make that vision a reality. For more information, follow NSBE Detroit on their socials: