Building A Future In STEM

After high school, Gerard enrolled at Grambling State University, a historic black college and university (HBCU) in Louisiana. For the first time, Gerard says he felt comfortable sharing his educational interests without judgment, surrounded by people who looked like him and shared similar interests and abilities.

Creating inclusive cultures

Gerard’s interests steered him to a career in our plasma manufacturing facility near Covington, Georgia, where he’s worked there for the last ten years. Aside from his daily responsibilities as Material Change Management Project Lead working in supply chain, Gerard joined one of our Takeda Resource Groups (TRGs) called the Black Leadership Council (BLC). Our TRGs provide employees with shared backgrounds and life experiences the opportunity to support efforts that foster an inclusive work environment. “They provided me a chance to bond with people who look like me and share my same struggle and story,” says Gerard.

Making history and changing futures

Alongside his BLC colleagues, Gerard has participated in various community events aimed at inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. Recently, Gerard attended a mentorship dinner with high school and college students organized by the non-profit, 100 Black Men of North Metro Atlanta, Inc. “I got an opportunity to go in front of a large group of community members, parents and students and shine a light on the opportunities that Takeda provides,” says Gerard.

Gerard is grateful to work for a company like Takeda that values diversity, equity and inclusion. This commitment creates a workplace where everyone feels accepted and valued, regardless of background, age or culture. Eager to help the next generation of leaders realize their potential, Gerard is dedicated to giving back to the community by sharing his personal STEM journey.

“I’m passionate about making sure that underserved communities have an opportunity to be successful,” says Gerard, “because the next generation has to understand that they’re cherished and have a position here.”