Sarona J. Corlette ~ Engineering Technology

Brooklyn, New York Native ~ Orlando, Fl

VDC Technician, Project Engineer, Estimator

There's a kind of lifestyle you grow into over time being from New York City. We are known to be one of the toughest groups of people. The way we drive can often be seen as reckless, the harsh behaviors you may witness just from looking at someone, to the endless fight you may be in just because you’re chasing after your dreams. A few of us are capable of love, care, and compassion which can bring a sense of balance back to the city. My mother and grandmother emigrated to New York from their homeland Grenada, and my father came from Guyana over twenty years ago in search of a better life. I left New York City for Orlando, Florida to pursue my dreams. Since my siblings and I were small, my mother and grandmother raised us together with the hope we'll be educated, successful and healthy of course. 

I was taught at a young age grasping onto opportunities can have a positive impact on your life. I was into ballet, tap dancing, art, photography, knitting, and learning overall. There are probably more things I've done over the years but they never stuck with me. At a time after I entered high school, I truly believed I had no purpose in life, and the many obstacles I faced during that season of my life it almost confirmed that. I went through personal changes, dealt with family issues, and lost a couple of friends. I ended up falling into depression with the feeling of being alone, scared, and emotionless so I isolated myself. I even lost so much weight because I did not have any urges to eat or to be a part of the crowd.

When I was able to enroll in a technical course in high school, I was placed in a computer class. I thought that was something I can get into but after a week I knew it was not for me. I was interested in transferring to another course however, I had no clue which one. Until a great friend of mine back then left his electrical book on the table at lunch. Out of curiosity, I opened the book and was flipping through the pages, when he came back I started asking him questions. That moment changed my life forever. I transferred to electrical installation and started my journey of becoming an electrician, and now an engineering technologist~technician.  

This journey has not been easy and I always imagined it being potentially difficult for those who were a minority or a woman who’s pursuing a career in S.T.E.A.M. I created Brilliantly Cultured to encourage other individuals that no matter where you are from, the color of your skin, or your gender you can strive and have a future that reflects your dreams and passion. I know so many people who are talented, gifted, and educated that’s around the world. I am going to travel and connect with those individuals because change starts now. 

Our founder is of Caribbean descent and goes by Sarona J. Corlette. She aspires to be an Engineer Technologist- Technician as well as an advocate for women in the S.T.E.A.M community. As a transferred student, she vowed to herself, to accomplish everything she wanted in life the second time around. Sarona graduated from DeVry University online twice to obtain her Associate Degree and Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology: Electronics with a specialization in Renewable Energy. While pursuing her bachelor's, she hit all the requirements and was able to receive an Associate Degree in Information Technology & Networking, in Spring 2022. Sarona is also a member of the IEEE club and The National Society of Leadership and Success. For over 10 years, Sarona's passion for skilled trades and technology grew while attending school, seminars, and programs and obtaining a career job.

Brilliantly Cultured was created based on key elements our founder experienced. She knew change had to be done to better accommodate all minorities within S.T.E.A.M Industries, especially women who may be faced with many obstacles. Brilliantly Cultured will be a space where minorities can come together to speak on topics, share their experiences, give advice, and teach other dreamers how to strive and learn the skills of this world. This community we built will improve work environments and sculpt a better lifestyle for all.  

Any questions, topics of interest, or a story that needs to be told can be sent through Brilliantly Cultured’s contact page to be featured on the website. 

Portfolio.

Sarona J. Corlette graduated from George Westinghouse Career and Technical High School in Spring 2015, where she continued her education in electrical installation, solar electric, engineering technology, and some carpentry. She attended the School of Cooperative Technical Education in 2018, which is a trade school for high school students as well as adults. Although Sarona graduated from DeVry University, she previously took a few courses at New York City College of Technology. Over the years, Sarona captured photos and videos of her work whether it was a school assignment, project, or her experience in the field.