NSWC PCD Black History Month Spotlight: Rojae Wright

NSWC PCD Black History Month Spotlight: Rojae Wright

By Jeremy Roman, NSWC PCD Public Affairs Office

Rojae Wright, scientist at Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD), plays an important part to the various missions of this Navy Lab. His main responsibility is to conduct research, testing and analysis of non-lethal interdiction materials and technologies. He also volunteered to serve as the NSWC PCD Black/African American Special Emphasis Program (BAA SEP) lead, which aims to function as a conduit between the Black or African American workforce and the Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) Department.

"In my roles, I actively support strategies designed to promote equal opportunity in the Naval Sea Systems Command workforce by organizing and coordinating BAA SEP meetings and relevant activities, including special observances and educational events," said Wright. "I am motivated to deliver a high level of professionalism and apply my knowledge and expertise to projects that provide a technological advantage to the fleet and warfighter."

Wright, who was born and raised in Jamaica in a small community called Duckenfield in the Parish of St. Thomas, has always wanted to help people and discovered his calling through the help of a friend.

"I began university with the intention of becoming a medical doctor, but I was introduced to a physics professor in my freshman year that completely altered my educational trajectory," said Wright. "I developed a passion for research and problem solving which propelled me to complete both my Bachelor and Master of Science in Physics from Alabama A&M University. Shortly after graduating, I began my career at NSWC PCD."

Having served here for the past five years, Wright explained what has had the greatest impact on him so far.

"The people that I've met and the experiences that we've created are what I enjoy the most about being here," said Wright. "I truly value my NSWC PCD community of mentors [both career and personal], coworkers, and lifelong friends."

Along with his efforts to support the warfighter and his fellow personnel, Wright shared what has helped make him successful.

"The words that have helped me throughout my career are 'Learning is a lifelong process'. With this mindset, the fear of failure is minimized and failure is viewed as a learning phase before success. These words allow me to remain curious, embrace new challenges, and seize opportunities that are presented," Wright said. "I have a great deal to learn in my career and life in general, but I am extremely excited to experience what's to come."