Creating a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) pipeline of students who show an interest in these “high-demand” and yet difficult fields is a national challenge. It also impacts the development of talent pipelines. In an effort to attract students to the STEM field, I advocated for educational robotics as an interdisciplinary curriculum area that can be used to spark a passion in youth. Providing an on-ramp for underrepresented youth to develop skills can lead them to STEM careers in the future. I have facilitated a continuum of programs and learning experiences to ignite STEM excitement through:
- TALON Robotics- a 3-week intensive robotics summer program for 6-12thgrade students
- Enrichment Academy- a K-12 afterschool program focused on STEM programs at different levels including robotics, 3D printing, and programming
- FIRST LEGO League and FIRST LEGO League Jr Affiliate Partner Organization administrator for Central Florida Robotics with coordination of 8 counties team seasonal activities and facilitation of the annual regional and other competitions.
- Chair and developer of the Technobotics Academy at Winter Haven High School
NOME 