“Eddie believes good writing skills apply to every possible career, including STEM-related careers“
“Granting” Wishes
Eddie Meza’s Story
At Texas Biomedical Research Institute, it is possible to successfully integrate science with a career in business. As the Director of Sponsored Programs Administration at Texas Biomedical Research Institute, Eddie Meza has created a bridge between science research and fund administration. By taking care of administrative details associated with grant writing and grant funding, Eddie enables the scientists to stay focused on their primary job; finding treatments and cures for infectious diseases. Without Eddie and his team, scientists would need to take time away from their important research to write grants to deal with to administrative duties.
Eddie attended a STEM magnet high school where college advisers mentored him, guiding him through the college application process. He is a first-generation high school and college graduate, earning a BA from UC Berkeley and dual master’s degrees in public administration and Marketing from USC. During his education journey, he discovered a love for data and administration. Eddie believes good writing skills apply to every possible career, including STEM-related careers.
Advances in biomedical research require a diverse team of bridge-builders, to connect research scientists, animal care specialists, and administrators. Eddie is more than a team player. He is a team builder! He believes no one fails or succeeds alone. Eddie’s leadership style, in combination with his “can do” attitude, has created a positive culture within his department of Sponsored Programs Administration and has had a ripple effect throughout the entire organization. The STEM field can always use more devoted leaders like Eddie on its team!
Additional Materials
Discussion Questions
- What characteristics are useful to be an effective team builder?
- Eddie is a bridge-builder. What does that mean to you? Describe a situation where you have been a bridge-builder.
- What is a grant?
Suggested Activity
Brain-Storm: Think of careers that are needed to support science research. Locate programs in San Antonio or Texas where you could earn a certification or degree in these non-science careers.