STEM Topic of Talk at Dutchess Community College

By Keith Baskett

As a pilot, aviation professional, and advocate for education, I’ve always believed that representation matters. That belief was reaffirmed during the Black History Month STEM Panel at Dutchess Community College (DCC), where I had the privilege of speaking alongside other professionals to inspire and guide the next generation of STEM leaders.

The event, hosted as part of DCC’s Black History Month celebrations, brought together students, educators, and industry professionals to discuss the vast opportunities within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. As a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a current captain for a major airline, I shared my journey into aviation, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, mentorship, and education in achieving success.

One of the most rewarding moments of the panel was engaging with students who were eager to learn about careers they may have never considered before. Many were fascinated by the technological advancements in aviation and the crucial role of pilots in global travel and commerce. The panel provided a platform to demystify these careers and encourage students to pursue their passions, regardless of obstacles they may face.

During the discussion, the moderator raised a timely question about the recent news cycle’s focus on aviation incidents and the political effort to link safety concerns to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. I made it clear that this is merely noise. The reality is—and has always been—that safety is the primary focus in aviation. There are no unqualified aviators or aerospace professionals; the rigorous training, preparation, and resilience required in this field ensure that only the best are entrusted with the responsibility of flight.

Diversity and safety are not mutually exclusive—they happen simultaneously. Aspiring to build a workforce that reflects the community at large does not come at the expense of safety; rather, it strengthens the industry by bringing in a broader range of talent, perspectives, and problem-solving abilities. The aerospace sector thrives on innovation and precision, and that excellence is achieved through a workforce that is both highly skilled and representative of the world it serves.

Beyond my personal story, the panel highlighted the broader impact of STEM fields on our society. We spoke about the importance of innovation, the need for diversity in these industries, and how organizations like the Poughkeepsie Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi’s Beyond the Dream Foundation help bridge the gap for underrepresented communities.

Events like this remind me why I am committed to mentoring and outreach. Seeing students’ curiosity and determination fuels my passion to continue engaging in these conversations and supporting programs that create pathways for future professionals. The impact of such efforts extends far beyond a single event—it shapes the leaders, innovators, and trailblazers of tomorrow.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to have participated in this discussion and look forward to continuing to support initiatives that empower young minds. My hope is that each student left the panel with a renewed sense of confidence and the belief that they, too, can soar to new heights in STEM.