Women of Color (WOC) magazine
annually recognizes innovation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through its WOC STEM Awards.
The WOC STEM Awards Conference is approaching its 30th year of shaping the future of technology.
From the 1990s to the 2010s and into the 2020s, WOC award winners have been key drivers in the tech industry.
This year's winners were honored at ceremonies held as part of the 29th annual WOC STEM Conference, which took place from October 3-5 in Detroit, Michigan, and on the digital twin experience (DTX) platform.
The winners include both emerging early-career researchers and pioneering professionals in STEM who are making significant contributions to our world.
The Career Communications Group, a leading advocate for workforce diversity, organizes the WOC STEM Conference, which has consistently focused on professional development, networking, and empowerment for nearly thirty years.
This year's conference theme, "Waves of Change, Oceans of Opportunity," explored the importance of embracing diverse perspectives and inclusivity to advance STEM fields.
The event gathered individuals from across the country to celebrate diversity, innovation, and the achievements of women in STEM. It featured multiple award presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, all honoring the remarkable contributions of women in these fields.
The conference was accessible online via the WOC STEM DTX platform.
This year's nominees included Bridget Chatman, who was named the 2024 Technologist of the Year, along with various category award honorees ranging from industry leaders to emerging talents.
Their work exemplifies excellence in STEM as they push boundaries and improve processes for a better world.
When Sam Robbins decided to pursue a career in finance at the age of 17, she had no idea where that path would take her.
This October, she was honored with a financial technology (fintech) award at the Women of Color in STEM Conference for her leadership as the finance director at Zipcar Incorporated.
Robbins has shown exceptional leadership, guiding her team to achieve record-breaking financial results.
Under her leadership, Zipcar’s processes have been transformed, resulting in a remarkable multimillion-dollar reduction in expenses year after year.
Her impact extends beyond financial metrics.
Robbins is a role model in STEM, leading a team of dedicated professionals focused on driving revenue.
She is well-known for her commitment to efficiency, data management, and her ability to inspire those around her.
During the Women of Color STEM Awards Ceremony, at the 1:35 minute mark in the video, Robbins expressed her gratitude for the award, saying, "I am so proud of the accomplishments that my teams and I have had over my career."
These achievements include creating a headcount position management tool that resulted in a 40 percent in-year savings, as well as revitalizing a payment processing system that consistently reduced bad debt.
However, Robbins believes that her greatest accomplishments are helping others advance in their careers, gain promotions, and access opportunities in financial technology.
