Alcorn State student De’Marcus Jackson has been chosen as a Technology Commercialization Fellow at ERDCWERX, an innovation hub of DEFENSEWERX.
This prestigious fellowship program, hosted by ERDCWERX and JSU’s Technology Transfer Office at the Mississippi Center for Innovation and Technology (MCITy), aims to provide students from Mississippi Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with exposure to STEM-related innovation and commercialization.
The Natchez, Miss. native’s passion for geospatial engineering and his dedication to helping others began at a young age. This led him to pursue a major in the field at Alcorn, where he excelled in his studies. His academic achievements and commitment have now earned him the opportunity to participate in the Technology Commercialization Fellowship Program.
As a participant in this compensated program, Jackson will gain valuable insights into the fast-growing field of technology transfer and learn how patented innovations can be introduced to the marketplace. This experience will not only enhance his skills but also prepare him for innovation and commercialization in STEM-related fields.
Expressing his excitement about the fellowship, Jackson said, “My interest in geospatial engineering began during my childhood when I was captivated by technology’s omnipresence. I wanted to be part of a field that not only contributed to its advancement but also had a positive impact on people. Geospatial engineering emerged as my chosen path, and fortunately, ERDCWERX aligns with this passion.”
Jackson’s motivation for applying to the Technology Commercialization Fellowship Program at ERDCWERX is to establish connections and gain experience that will enhance his employment prospects. He looks forward to working alongside professionals, observing their expertise, and gleaning valuable insights from their experiences.
“I am excited about the prospects this fellowship brings and look forward to leveraging it to make valuable contributions in the field. This journey is a testament to the synergy between my passion and ERDC’s mission,” added Jackson.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Jackson offered advice to students, saying, “Remember that diversity strengthens the STEM community, and your unique perspective is an asset. By staying true to your passion, seeking support, and embracing opportunities for growth, you can make a meaningful impact in STEM-related fields.”
