Influential Woman · Government
Shani Smith
Senior Regulatory Program Manager, FDA
Glen Burnie, MD
Her Story
About Shani
I have been working as a chemist for 22 years in a government role reviewing generic drug ingredients and manufacturing processes. I also serve as an officer in the United States Public Health Service, responding to disasters. I hold a Bachelor's from Tennessee State University and two master's degrees. Beyond my career, I am an author writing books to help introverts embrace their personality in professional and personal life.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shani
01What do you attribute your success to?
I definitely would attribute my success with my faith as well as having strong friends and family members to support my journey.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My best career advice is to really make sure that you're making an impact, no matter what circumstances that you face. And really not to settle on just one particular career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would definitely tell them to be flexible. Just considering the environment that we're currently in, that one career doesn't necessarily... having one career is not guaranteed. You have to make sure you're able to pivot.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The number one challenge is definitely the artificial intelligence. Even in the field that I work in, we're encouraged to become more productive by using it. I would definitely encourage young people to really stay abreast upon the technology.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Definitely resilience. Discipline and service.
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