Brittany Sanders-Bell is no stranger to Clemson’s Industrial Engineering department. With both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in IE under her belt (earned in 2020 and 2023, respectively), she’s now pursuing her Ph.D. in engineering and science education, aiming to finish by 2027.
Currently, Brittany serves as the Assistant Director of Next Engineers Greenville, a $5.5 million initiative supported by the GE Aerospace Foundation, GE Vernova, and Clemson’s own PEER and WISE program. PEER (Programs for Educational Enrichment and Retention) and WISE (Women in Science and Engineering) are dedicated to recruiting, educating, and retaining students in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through mentorship, academic coaching, and enrichment opportunities.
In her leadership role at Next Engineers, Brittany manages operations, logistics, reporting, and partner relationships for the Greenville chapter. She also connects with colleagues from other Next Engineers locations around the globe—including Cincinnati, Johannesburg, and Staffordshire—facilitating quarterly meetings to exchange ideas and improve programming. Thanks to her guidance, the first class of Next Engineers Greenville celebrated 49 graduates, many of whom chose Clemson for their continued education.
Brittany also wears a second hat as an assistant director for PEER and WISE, focusing on mentoring underrepresented students in STEM. Her efforts are helping to pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse generation of scientists and engineers. As a working mother, Brittany brings empathy and understanding to students juggling academic and personal responsibilities—a perspective that resonates deeply with those she mentors.
Whether she’s leading outreach efforts in local schools, giving spontaneous campus tours to prospective engineering students and their families, or advocating for increased representation in STEM, Brittany is a powerful force for change. She’s married to Derek Wayne Bell and continues to inspire others through her dedication to education, equity, and community.
