Synopsis
Carla Cotwright-Williams is a mathematical maestro, juggling complex equations like a circus performer! With her doctorate from the University of Mississippi, she’s not just breaking barriers in mathematics; she’s doing a celebratory conga line on the remains.
Now a Technical Director and Data Scientist for the U.S. Department of Defense, she’s using her mathematical prowess to protect the nation, making her the superhero the world needs!
Introduction
Alright, hold on to your hat because you are about to hear the story of a great mathematician so extraordinary that she uses Fibonacci sequences to plan her day! Meet Carla Cotwright-Williams, a woman who’s not just breaking barriers in the world of mathematics but also doing a celebratory conga line on the remains!
Born and raised in South Central Los Angeles, Carla didn’t just earn a doctorate in mathematics from the University of Mississippi; she is the second African-American woman to do so! Talk about setting the bar high!
Can you believe that she’s a technical director and data scientist for the United States Department of Defense? That’s right, while some are struggling with basic algebra, she’s out there using complex mathematical theories to protect the nation!
Her research? Oh, just a little thing called “matroid theory,” a branch of combinatorics. She’s also worked on the applications of differential equations to problems in biology and engineering. And don’t forget the development of a cataract model used to predict the cataract surgical rate for developing countries in Africa.
Carla Cotwright-Williams, a mathematician so cool, probably uses prime numbers to tie her shoes! Now, isn’t that someone you’d like to know more about?
1. Who Is Carla Cotwright Williams?

Carla Cotwright-Williams, a mathematician who’s so extraordinary, uses complex equations to plan her day!
Born on November 6 and raised in South Central Los Angeles, Carla is a trailblazer in the field of mathematics, being the second African-American woman to earn a doctorate from the University of Mississippi. Now, she’s a technical director and data scientist for the U.S. Department of Defense, using her mathematical prowess to protect the nation.
Her research is primarily in the field of mathematics, specifically matroid theory, a branch of combinatorics. She’s also worked on the applications of differential equations to problems in biology and engineering and the development of a cataract model used to predict the cataract surgical rate for developing countries in Africa.
Carla Cotwright-Williams, a mathematician so cool, uses prime numbers to tie her shoes! Now, isn’t that someone you’d want to know more about? Bet you’re already calculating the odds of meeting her in person! So, are you ready to dive deeper into the fascinating world of Carla?
2. What Makes Carla Cotwright Williams So Special?
Cotwright-Williams is a mathematical powerhouse—a woman who’s not just breaking barriers in the world of mathematics but also doing a celebratory conga line on the remains! She’s a trailblazer, the second African-American woman to earn a doctorate in mathematics from the University of Mississippi. That’s no small feat!
But what makes Carla truly special is not just her academic achievements but also her application of mathematics to real-world problems. She’s a technical director and data scientist for the U.S. Department of Defense, using her mathematical prowess to protect the nation. Imagine using math to keep a country safe!
Her research is primarily in the field of mathematics, specifically matroid theory, a branch of combinatorics. But she doesn’t stop there. She’s also worked on the applications of differential equations to problems in biology and engineering. And don’t forget the development of a cataract model used to predict the cataract surgical rate for developing countries in Africa. Talk about making a difference!
Carla Cotwright-Williams is not just a mathematician, she’s a problem solver, a trailblazer, and a role model. She’s showing the world that mathematics is not just about numbers and equations but about solving real-world problems and making a difference. She’s a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and a love for mathematics.
3. What Does Carla Cotwright Williams Care About?
Cotwright-Williams is a mathematician who’s not just about numbers and equations; she’s about making a real difference in the world! She’s a woman who cares deeply about education, particularly in the field of mathematics. She involved herself in programs to promote STEM to minority students, showing her commitment to nurturing the next generation of mathematicians.
But her care extends beyond the classroom. She’s worked on the applications of differential equations to problems in biology and engineering. She’s also developed a cataract model to predict the cataract surgical rate in developing countries in Africa. This shows her dedication to using mathematics to solve real-world problems and improve lives.
Carla also cares about public policy. She’s studied public policy and worked on collaborative research on Bayesian network-based drone control systems with NASA and on a US Navy project involving measurement uncertainty. She even completed a graduate certificate in public policy analysis. This shows her commitment to understanding and influencing the policies that shape our world.
In her role as a Technical Director and Data Scientist for the U.S. Department of Defense, Carla is using her mathematical prowess to protect the nation. This shows her dedication to public service and national security.
So, what does Carla Cotwright-Williams care about? She cares about education, about using mathematics to solve real-world problems, about public policy, and about serving her country. She’s a woman who’s making a difference, one equation at a time!.
4. What Are Carla Cotwright Williams’s Greatest Deeds?
This great woman is a data science wizard and a STEM champion. She achieved remarkable feats in both academia and government, breaking barriers and stereotypes along the way.
Here are some of her greatest deeds:
- She overcame academic challenges and earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from California State University, Long Beach, a master’s degree in mathematics from Southern University, and a Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Mississippi. The best part is that she is the second African-American woman to earn a doctorate in mathematics at the University of Mississippi.
- Carla worked as a faculty member in mathematics at Wake Forest University, Hampton University, and Norfolk State University, where she taught and mentored students from diverse backgrounds. She also conducted collaborative research on drone control systems with NASA and on measurement uncertainty with the US Navy.
- She transitioned to a government career and became a technical director and data Scientist for the United States Department of Defense, Can you imagine? She was also the Acting Chief of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, where she applied her mathematical skills and knowledge to solve complex and critical problems for national security.
- Cotwright is a fellow at the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and a Science and Technology fellow in both the US House of Representatives and the US Senate. She used her communication and leadership skills to advocate for STEM education and policy at the national level.
- She also inspired and empowered many young people, especially women and minorities, to pursue STEM careers and to overcome obstacles and challenges. Carla shared her personal story and achievements at various events and platforms, such as the IMAGE program, the Black Graduate and Professional Student Association, and the Graduate Student Council.
With no doubt, Carla Cotwright Williams is a shining example of excellence, resilience, and innovation. She has made significant contributions to mathematics, data science, and public service. She is a role model and a trailblazer for the next generation of STEM leaders.
5. What Has Carla Cotwright Williams Faced as Challenges?

Don’t forget that this superwoman also faces some challenges. Carla Cotwright Williams, an American mathematician and data scientist at the Department of Defense, has a remarkable journey marked by challenges:
Growing up in South Central Los Angeles, she faced the difficulties of a neighborhood with high crime and poverty rates. Her college years saw struggles as a math major, leading to academic disqualification, but she resiliently returned and graduated.
Switching from engineering to pure mathematics, she confronted the lack of diversity in STEM fields. Facing the unexpected, she taught her own class without prior notice or preparation.
Balancing doctoral studies with active involvement in student organizations and leadership roles.
Transitioning from academia to government research, she acquired new skills in diverse domains. Effectively communicating complex data and analysis to policymakers and stakeholders. Carla’s story is an inspiring testament to perseverance, excellence, and innovation in mathematics and data science.
6. What Keeps Carla Cotwright Williams Motivated?
Carla Cotwright Williams is a remarkable mathematician and data scientist who works for the Department of Defense. She has a passion for using her skills and knowledge to serve the public good and solve complex problems. Here are some of the things that keep her motivated:
She loves learning new things and expanding her horizons. She has earned degrees in mathematics, public policy, and data science and has worked in various fields such as engineering, academia, and government. She is always eager to take on new challenges and opportunities.
Carla also values diversity and representation in STEM. She is one of the few African-American women who earned a doctorate in mathematics, and she has mentored and inspired many students from underrepresented backgrounds. She’s also been involved in several organizations and programs that promote STEM education and careers for minorities and women.
This woman enjoys communicating and collaborating with others. She has excellent communication skills that allow her to explain complex data and analysis to policymakers and stakeholders. She has also worked with various teams and partners across different sectors and disciplines. She believes that teamwork and dialogue are essential for innovation and impact.
7. Why Is Carla Cotwright Williams Such a Role Model?
Did you just ask why she’s such a role model? Cotwright is such a role model because she has overcome many challenges and achieved many successes in her academic and professional career. She is one of the few African-American women who have earned a doctorate in mathematics, and she has mentored and inspired many students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Cotwright is a leading voice in STEM at the national level, with prestigious fellowships and awards. She used her skills and knowledge to serve the public good and solve complex problems in various fields such as engineering, academia, and government.
8. What Is Carla Cotwright Williams Currently Working On?
In the awe-inspiring realm of data mastery and technological prowess, behold Carla Cotwright Williams, a living legend navigating the intricacies of the Department of Defense as a Technical Director and Data Scientist. Imagine her as the virtuoso conductor orchestrating a symphony of information, seamlessly consolidating data from a colossal and intricate network—no less than one of the world’s largest.
Her role extends beyond the ordinary; she stands as a guardian against the ominous threat of financial cybercrime, wielding the power of analytics like a digital sorceress and crafting spells to thwart nefarious schemes. Picture her as a sentinel, tirelessly working to safeguard the digital frontiers.
But that’s not all—her position is nothing short of a celestial fellowship, a rotational leadership development odyssey reserved for those adorned with advanced degrees in the sacred realms of Information technology. Carla emerges as a luminary, a beacon in the digital cosmos, illuminating the path for you who dare to explore the boundless possibilities of the ever-evolving data universe. In her hands, information becomes a tapestry, woven with precision and purpose, guarding against the shadows of cyber threats.
9. What Could Slow Carla Cotwright Williams Down?
Cotwright is a very driven and resilient person, but she could face some challenges that can slow her down. For example, if she encounters some technical difficulties or security issues in her data science projects, that could slow her down.
She can also face some resistance or misunderstanding from some policymakers or stakeholders who are not familiar with the value or potential of data and analysis. She could also experience some stress or fatigue from balancing her multiple roles and
10. What Can You Learn From Carla Cotwright Williams?
You can learn many things from Carla Cotwright Williams, such as:
- How to pursue your passion and curiosity for learning new things and expanding your horizons.
- To value diversity and representation in STEM and support others who share your goals and interests.
- How to communicate and collaborate with others effectively and respectfully, especially when dealing with complex data and analysis.
- Learn how to use your skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world and solve real-world problems.
Pro Tips
- Embrace Lifelong Learning: Follow Carla Cotwright Williams’ lead by nurturing your passion and curiosity. Pursue diverse degrees and explore different fields to expand your horizons.
- Seize Opportunities for Mentorship: Learn from mentors, peers, and experts across various domains. Seek guidance to enhance your skills and gain valuable insights from those who have walked similar paths.
- Foster Diversity and Inclusion: Value diversity in STEM and actively support underrepresented groups. Mentor and inspire individuals from diverse backgrounds, contributing to programs and organizations that promote inclusivity in STEM education and careers.
- Develop Effective Communication Skills: Master the art of communicating complex concepts to non-technical audiences. Cultivate the ability to collaborate respectfully, especially when dealing with intricate data and analysis.
- Advocate for Diversity at the National Level: Follow Carla’s example and champion diversity and inclusion in STEM on a broader scale. Contribute to the national conversation about the importance of representation in these fields.
- Collaborate Across Sectors and Disciplines: Work seamlessly with teams and partners from different sectors and disciplines. Appreciate diverse perspectives and approaches to foster innovation and problem-solving.
- Apply Skills to Real-world Issues: Follow Carla’s lead in making a positive impact on the world. Utilize your expertise to address pressing issues, applying mathematical and data science knowledge to solve problems in areas like healthcare, cybersecurity, and national defense.
- Understand the Broader Implications and Ethics: Develop a deep understanding of the broader implications and ethical aspects of your work. Carla’s background in public policy underscores the importance of considering the ethical dimensions of your contributions.
- Advocate for STEM Education: Engage in programs and initiatives that promote STEM education, especially for minorities and women. Contribute to creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for aspiring individuals.
- Be a Problem Solver: Use your skills and knowledge to actively contribute to solutions for real-world challenges. Whether it’s in cataract surgery, drone control, or cybersecurity, apply your expertise to make a meaningful impact.
Summary
Carla Cotwright-Williams is a remarkable mathematician and data scientist who works for the Department of Defense. She grew up in south-central Los Angeles and faced many challenges in her education and career.
She earned degrees in mathematics, public policy, and data science and worked in various fields such as engineering, academia, and government.
She is one of the few African-American women who have earned a doctorate in mathematics, and she has mentored and inspired many students from underrepresented backgrounds. She’s also the leading voice in STEM at the national level, with prestigious fellowships and awards.
Carla is currently working on data science projects that involve consolidating data sources and preventing cybercrime. She has a passion for using her skills and knowledge to serve the public good and solve complex problems.
Let the lifestyle of this woman be the source of great things in your life.