Episode 33: Being Seen: Why Visibility Matters to Dan Mitchell, Engineer and Patent Litigation Associate Duane Morris DEI 360 Podcast with Joe West

Dan Mitchell shares his journey from graduating Georgia Tech with an engineering degree, working at the U.S. Patent Office while attending law school at night, to joining Duane Morris as a patent litigation associate. Dan understands he's a rarity and "there aren't a lot of diverse, African American engineers" and even "fewer diverse engineers with law degrees." Growing up in southern Georgia, Dan didn't know engineers or lawyers and now he's both. For Dan, "it's very important that you have an example that you can see, because once you see it, it just seems more obtainable." Having set out on an ambitious and daunting career path, Dan feels a responsibility "to be visible in my community" and "to let others see me" in the hope of inspiring others to reach for more than they thought possible, as he did. Dan also advises younger lawyers to find mentors, "someone that's been there and done that." And if "they can't find anyone, tell them to call me, I will talk to each and every one of them. I'll take the time."