Meet Our Literacy Pillar: Kisa Caruthers, Bridging Engineering and Education
In the Literacy Pillars movement, mentors are the foundation that lifts the next generation through the power of literacy — reading, writing, and critical thinking. They use their leadership and experience to build strong, confident scholars ready to thrive in any industry.
We’ve had the honor of Kisa Caruthers mentoring our scholars at Entitled Learning, bringing her expertise in electrical engineering with grace, professionalism, and wisdom. Our young professionals often share how much they’ve grown from Kisa’s guidance, and I can personally say she is passionate about giving back, believes deeply in representation, and is a true bridge between academics and real-world career learning.
We would like to introduce our Industry Mentor, Kisa Caruthers.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your insights and experiences with us. Your perspective on the importance of literacy in leadership is invaluable, and we appreciate your wisdom!
Q: How many years have you worked in your industry, and can you describe your role?
“With more than 26 years of engineering experience, I have designed electrical building systems for new and renovated building projects across the United States and internationally. I have designed low- and medium-voltage systems for various buildings, facilities, institutions, and plants. I have served as the lead electrical engineer and project manager for T&D’s transportation electrification business line. I led and managed a microgrid project for a fleet distribution company, led projects involving the electrical design infrastructure for eVTOL aircraft, and managed the conceptual design for Level 2 and DC (Direct Current) fast charger public charging stations.”
Q: How does strong literacy influence your ability to lead and make effective decisions within your industry?
“Literacy is crucial for making informed decisions in this industry, which prioritizes safety. Without the ability to read, understand, write, and communicate effectively, there's a significant risk of endangering people's lives. As a practicing engineer, I am obligated to maintain the standards and dignity of the engineering profession. I strive to practice with integrity, fairness, tolerance, and respect for the profession.”
Q: What's a specific example where your reading and writing skills were essential for problem-solving or team leadership?
“Literacy is essential for ensuring the safety of contractors and end-users. For instance, when designing lighting systems, it's crucial to coordinate and correctly size the wire and breaker panels to handle the lighting loads. An undersized system risks frequent breaker trips or wire burnout due to overload, potentially leaving people in the dark – significant safety concerns. Therefore, it's vital to have a thorough understanding of what you communicate to contractors to avoid design errors.”
Q: What role does literacy play in communication, both within your team and in your professional relationships?
“Engineers develop design documents (blueprints) for contractors to construct various structures, including buildings, engineering systems, roadways, streetlights, bridges, spaceships, airports, airplanes, hospitals, and more. Strong literacy, reading, and writing skills are crucial for effectively communicating the project's scope and requirements to your team. Clients present problems, and engineers serve as problem solvers. When the team understands the scope and design requirements clearly, they can produce a product that aligns with the client's vision and goals.”
Q: Are there any encouraging words you would like to share with the next generation of scholars who are preparing to step into leadership roles?
For the next generation: make reading a regular habit. Expand your mind and learn new vocabulary words. This will help you stretch and strengthen your reading comprehension skills.
Q: What books would you recommend to young scholars who are interested in STEM?
The Fascinating Engineering Book for Kids by Jacie Maslyk
Engineering for Curious Kids by Chris Oxlade
The Way Things Work Now by David Macaulay
Design & Build Your Future by Noé H. Saenz
Entitled Learning is an educational nonprofit based in Kansas City, Missouri, dedicated to enriching the lives of young scholars aged 7 to 13. During the summer, they host engaging Young Professional learning experiences. Throughout the school year, Entitled Learning extends its reach through Young Professional Tours directly within classrooms. These tours bring inspiring Industry Mentors to students, where they lead small group lessons. A key focus of these interactions is to weave literacy skills into the exploration of various careers, ultimately aiming to inspire the next generation of leaders.
