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10 BEYA SCIENCE SPECTRUM AWARDEES MAKING A HUGE IMPACT IN STEM

THE WORLD OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS (STEM) is brimming with brilliant minds. From artificial intelligence to sustainable materials, these advancements are driven by the tireless efforts of dedicated individuals. This story highlights the inspiring journeys of several BEYA Science Spectrum Trailblazer Award recipients.

These awardees represent the excellence and diversity within the STEM community. They are engineers, researchers, and scientists who are pushing the boundaries of their fields and making a real difference in the world.

Monica Allen

Monica Allen, a principal research electronics engineer from the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Munitions Directorate at Eglin Air Force Base, FL, was the recipient of a Science Spectrum Award in 2017. Recently, she was the featured guest on AFRL’s “Lab Life” podcast, which provides insights into the work of Air Force scientists and engineers, who are involved in developing today’s technologies. In the episode, Allen explained that her team focuses on research involving radio frequency (microwaves) as well as visible and infrared light (night vision goggles). They are exploring plasmonics, a field that integrates electronics (small chips and tiny devices) with photonics (ultrafast speed), allowing for the realization of photonics and electronics on small devices. Additionally, her team is working on combining technologies. Allen highlighted that her team is dedicated to implementing photonics to meet the demand for high-speed detection and imagery, timing and sensing, and testing electronics that secure smart munitions. This effort aims to build trust in these chips and systems.

Wayne L. Bethea