Blending Design, Engineering, and Entrepreneurship on a National Scale: Meet Amber Williams
As part of our Black History Month series, we are honored to feature Amber Williams. Amber Williams is the designer and CEO of Circa81design.
Tell us about your journey.
Born and raised in Wichita, Kansas, I grew up in a family deeply rooted in STEM and business. Science has always been a part of my life, and I was certain I would pursue a career in the field. My father, a dentist, nurtured my curiosity by giving me my first telescope, microscope, and several chemistry kits. I am a third-generation entrepreneur, and from the age of five, I knew I wanted to be a businesswoman
I earned a golf scholarship to Jackson State University, where I initially majored in Biology. However, balancing athletics with such a rigorous program proved challenging, so I pivoted and earned a degree in Public Relations with a minor in Marketing instead. This decision proved invaluable when I launched my business in 2016.
Despite my shift in studies, my passion for STEM never faded. Determined to advance my skills, I enrolled in a technical school, which led to an "aha" moment: I could pursue engineering after all. Two and a half years later, I graduated with a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, and Systems, specializing in Cyber-Physical Systems from Wichita State University. This has now led to a partnership with the school where I can integrate my industry projects with engineering education.
With already having over 19 years of experience across multiple industries, including healthcare, finance, fashion, and construction. These are fields where engineers are always in demand. My journey has been anything but linear, but it has shaped me into the versatile, forward-thinking professional I am today.
What pivotal experiences shaped your current path?
Becoming a mother has been the most pivotal experience on my path. Having my son and choosing motherhood never meant putting my dreams on hold. Instead, it helped me define how I wanted to show up in the world. Women are often told they have to choose between career and family, but I refuse to accept that narrative. I am living proof that a dream may be delayed, but never denied.
What are the most valuable lessons you've learned about yourself through your life and career?
My passion is magnetic and it continues to attract people who support me in life and business. I’ve always been someone who saw the cup full and not half empty.
I have challenges and sad days like everyone but I always turn that pain into power. That's what keeps me going!
What drives your desire to contribute and make a difference?
The creator gives us all gifts to share with the world. So when you are blessed then you should be a blessing to others. I want to help shape the new world we are stepping into. Focusing on infrastructure in construction is Human centered. We need continuous improvement on how we build our roads, drink our water and improved systems to live well!
If you could go back and advise your younger self, what would it be?
Nothing! I wouldn’t change my journey because it directed me back to my true path and I gained so much wisdom along the way!
How can GlobalMindED support leaders like yourself in achieving your goals and advancing your aspirations.
Kids need to hear from us and understand that there isn’t just one path to success. I often hear students ask, “Where do I find mentors?” The truth is, you have to create those relationships. I always make myself accessible to anyone seeking guidance because I know how important support can be. Platforms like GlobalMindED open doors for people who look like me to connect, learn, and grow. Life will always bring challenges, but having a strong support system makes the journey lighter.
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