Long County track star uses STEM to solve global problems

LUDOWICI, Ga. (WTOC) -Former Long County track record holder in the 100-meter dash, Shirley Posey has traveled the globe finding ways to bring life to communities through STEM, tackling plastic pollution and other challenges.

“How can I look to solve this or create a solution to make things better and so that’s how I got involved in STEM,” Posey said.

Posey and her team have built hydropods for crop growth, 3D printed prosthetic limbs and created water filters for communities without clean drinking water.

Water filters transform village health

“78 percent of the 1,200 villagers had water born illnesses and diseases. After we 3D printed our water filter and incorporated it into the community, it declined by 100 percent,” Posey said.

Her efforts caught the attention of the Philadelphia Eagles, who selected her to represent them in their Go Green initiative. The team granted funding for trips and resources like medicine.

“It’s nothing for us to go to CVS and pick up some Tylenol or grab a Band-Aid. That’s gold to them. They can’t afford to go get something basic like Tylenol so their theory is, we’ll stay home and die. So now we have a full, thriving community where these people are thriving, sustainable and it’s all because of the work but also the Eagles supplying those resources,” Posey said.

Posey and the Eagles have also created an american flag football game to complete the bond with some of the communities that they visit. Shirley was also one of the teachers recognized as outstanding STEM teachers in the tri-state area.

Eagles recognition and NASA partnership

Posey received tickets to attend Super Bowl 58 and announced the Eagles’ fifth round draft pick in 2025 in Ghana.

She is now working with NASA to improve crops using the agency’s satellite to seeds program to assist farmers tracking rainfall amounts, soil moisture and overall crop health.

Posey is also developing a helmet that will illuminate signs of a concussion, with the player’s helmet visor changing colors.

“We were able to present that research at a medical conference. They know they could have an injury that could end their career. So why not develop technology or equipment that helps them recover faster. But also the longevity of their careers,” Posey said.

Posey said sustaining progress requires training today’s students.

“By the year 2030, 70 to 80 percent of the jobs are going to require STEM skills. Where is it going to come from? So the model that I designed, really looks at cultivating home grown talent, to be the forerunnings in the STEM field,” Posey said.