Endia Crabtree, PhD, FACE, FACHDM

What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

It is important to ‘lift as we climb.’ Titles are not required to be a leader. Leaders serve others, share knowledge, and create pathways so more people can rise.

What do you consider to be your most important career achievement or milestone?

Becoming a scientist who is visible, accessible, and inspiring to other Black women and girls. I’ve worked intentionally to broaden the narrative of who belongs in science, and to redefine what a scientist looks like and what a scientist can do.

What do you aspire to accomplish in your career and why? What obstacles will you overcome?

I aspire to improve the health of others globally, by bringing attention to and working to eliminate health disparities that are the result of unequal access to high quality healthcare.

Describe an amazing opportunity in your STEM career.

I was on a team of 20 scientists on the inaugural American Association for the Advancement of Science Multidisciplinary Working Group: Empowering Career Pathways in STEMM. We worked diligently to create evidence-based action items to eliminate barriers to STEMM careers.

How was AWIS helped you professionally and/or personally?

AWIS gave me the chance to write for their magazine and spotlight fellow Flint native Dr. Joyvina Evans. It was meaningful to highlight Flint’s brilliance. Our city produces incredible talent, yet its often overlooked. Flintstones are making waves!

What is your favorite word? (only one word)

Trailblazer.

How do you define it?

I expand what’s possible in STEM by breaking barriers, redefining representation, and creating pathways for others to rise.

How has this word influenced or inspired your career?

I learned early that there’s always more than one path to your goals. You have to stay open‑minded, keep learning, connect with people different from you, and trust yourself enough to take the steps that move you forward.

How does AWIS impact your career journey?

AWIS has expanded my community and amplified my voice, giving me platforms to connect, contribute, and champion representation, especially through highlighting fellow Flint, Michigan talent.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

I am currently reading On A Mission: The Smithsonian History of US Women Astronauts by Valerie Neal.

What do you consider the best professional or personal advice you’ve ever received?

Power. Influence. Positioning

Dr. Endia Crabtree is a Principal Clinical Product Risk Scientist at Boston Scientific, ensuring medical devices are safe, effective, and supported by strong evidence. She also serves in national leadership roles, including as a Board Director and Fellow of the American College of Epidemiology, and has earned honors such as Cincinnati Business Courier 40 Under 40 and Fellow of the American College of Health Data Management.