Hailing from Ondo State and raised in Jos, Plateau State, Dr. Mercy Fash has built an inspiring academic journey marked by resilience, innovation, and service. From her Nigerian roots to the United States, she has remained committed to education, technology, and empowering the next generation.

A proud graduate of Caritas University, Enugu, where she earned her B.Sc. in Computer Engineering, Dr. Fash has risen to become a distinguished researcher, educator, and mentor at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (N.C. A&T), one of the leading Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States.

Armed with a Ph.D. in Applied Science and Technology (Technology Management), Dr. Fash focuses her research on increasing diversity in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) careers. Her groundbreaking dissertation, “Development of a Femalized Kinesthetic Learning Model to Increase AEC Career Interests in African American Middle School Girls,” seeks to address two pressing challenges: the underrepresentation of women in engineering professions and the growing workforce shortages in the AEC industry.

Over her 12-year career in education, Dr. Fash has taught and mentored more than 250 undergraduate and graduate students across engineering, technology, and science departments. Many of her students have gone on to win prestigious awards at national conferences in the U.S., including first place at the 2023 Emerging Researchers National Conference in Washington, D.C.

Her dedication has earned her several honours, including the N.C. A&T Graduate Rising Scholar Award, the College of Science and Technology Graduate Rising Scholar Award, the Women in Science and Technology Service Award (2022), and recognition as the Outstanding Senior Graduate Teaching Assistant (2024).

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Fash has played a key role in STEM outreach and mentorship programs, particularly for middle and high school girls. She has directed STEAM summer camps, served as a panellist for robotics and manufacturing workshops, and worked with the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) to mentor future AEC professionals.

Her professional experience also spans business, data management, project management, and logistics in Nigeria and the U.S., including roles with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

A passionate advocate for educational excellence and inclusivity, Dr. Fash stands as a role model for Nigerian youth aspiring to global academic and professional success. Her story—rooted in Ondo State, shaped in Jos, and thriving in the United States—is a testament to how dedication, innovation, and faith can open doors from Nigeria to the world stage.