Author Talk With Samuel E. Pair, Le Yankee Noir-The Power of Acceptance (McMW)

Foreign Assignment Uncorks Intercultural Acceptance
 

In this author talk, on his book Le Yankee Noir – The Power of Acceptance, acclaimed aerospace engineer and author, Samuel E. Pair will share his powerful reflection on cross-cultural communication, respect and the revelatory nature of connection. In the midst of a modest career working for a jet engine producer, Samuel, an African American aerospace engineer is offered an unexpected opportunity to travel to Toulouse, France to oversee the rescue operation for a new jet propulsion system for intensely anticipated Airbus jetliners. The propulsion systems are behind schedule and the program is at risk of failing entirely. Heading to France with no knowledge of French and no connections in country, Samuel  is immediately immersed in the complexities of life and idiosyncrasies of a foreign land. His impressions of new discoveries after arrival and the people he worked with, demanded managing a multi- cultural team with precision and clear communication. Across the years as Samuel travels to various European countries in his managerial role, he forms cross-cultural relationships he never expected. Working in such a unique and visible position required humility, flexibility and a willingness to collaborate, learn and solve problems with peers and counterparts as equals. Eventually Samuel is accepted all over France and by his professional circle. His journey highlights yet another paradox of thriving as a Black American in France and other countries – experiencing more acceptance and meritocratic respect abroad than he would in his home country.
 

About The Author:

Samuel E. Pair was born in Virginia and lived most of his life in Connecticut. He worked his way up from an entry level engineering aide at jet engine maker, Pratt & Whitney, to managerial positions in Quality Assurance, Manufacturing, Program Management and International Operations Management. He has a BS in Mechanical Engineering from The University of Hartford and a MS in Management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He is a four-time finalist of The Black Engineer of the Year Award, presented by the Council of Engineering Deans of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Lockheed Martin and The Mobil Corporation. Since retiring from Pratt in 2006, he has spent years developing the writing skills, leading to the publication of his debut book.