STEM Archives - Business RadioX ®

Conversations over Puzzles S2E4

December 21, 2023 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Conversations over Puzzles S2E4

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In this episode of The Future of Work,” Al Loveland and Kyle McIntosh discuss how co-working spaces catalyze unexpected collaborations, featuring guests Roseline Cristanelli and Kaci Fankhauser. Hear the career journeys of the two guests and how they had a successful collaboration on a STEM event for Taiwanese families, showcasing the positive impact of co-working environments. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community and engagement at Mac 6. The conversation explores additional personal stories like Kaci’s kickball league and Roseline’s joining and her other collaborations, illustrating the profound connections formed.

Explore the power of co-working spaces in fostering meaningful connections, diverse interactions, and personal growth in the “Conversations over Puzzles” episode. Discover firsthand the impact of community engagement and the essence of relationship building and giving back. Tune in for insights on connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences, making this episode a must-listen for those seeking human connection and growth opportunities within a supportive community.

SciTech Institute is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing and promoting STEM education and awareness in Arizona and beyond. It works to achieve this through some of the strongest STEM initiatives in Arizona, including the Arizona SciTech Festival, the Chief Science Officers program, regional STEM Hubs, statewide STEM working groups, Little Free STEM Libraries, and more.

Kaci Fankhauser was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, and fell into doing research accidentally for the chance to just hang out with some butterflies.

She attended ASU and NAU and earned degrees in biology (BS), anthropology (minor), and environmental science and policy (MS) where she especially loved learning about the intersection of evolution and ecology.

For the past seven years she has worked for SciTech Institute, a STEM education nonprofit, where she strives toward making science a field that is accessible to and makes the world a better place for ALL people.

Follow SciTech Institute on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

Reliance First Realty is a real estate brokerage in Tempe, AZ. Founded in 2013, starting out in residential real estate, it has expended to serving users/tenants and investors in commercial real estate in recent years. In addition to buying and selling, we also do property management.

Up to 2023, our main source of businesses has been from word-of-mouth. Deep rooted in the Tempe community, Reliance First Realty has been a member of Local First Arizona, long-term sponsor of Tempe Cares, and strong supporter of Childsplay.

Roseline Cristanelli came to United States from Taiwan in 1992 with two suitcases in pursuit of a degree in Library Science at State University of New York, Albany. She is the designated broker and owner of Reliance First Realty, a company she founded 10 years ago.

Prior to that, she was a librarian in the Metro Phoenix for more than 20 years. Among her accomplishments as a librarian, she is most proud of being the project manager that established the Greater Phoenix Digital Library, being a faculty member at Scottsdale Community College, and most recently the manager of StartUpPHX, formerly known as hive@central, at Phoenix Public Library.

In addition to serving her clients in their real estate transactions, she also serves on the Grievance Committee at Arizona REALTORS, chairs the Housing Opportunity Committee at Scottsdale REALTORS, and is the President-Elect of Women’s Council of REALTORS Arizona Southeast Valley Network.

She holds many real estate designations and certificates, from property management to real estate negotiation, because she believes education is one thing she can do to sharpen her skills to benefit her clients.

She is a graduate of Tempe Leadership Class 29 and member of Kiwanis Club of Tempe. She has two sons, ages 30 and 14, and lives with her husband Tony and teenage son Louis in Tempe.

Connect with Roseline on LinkedIn and follow Reliance First Realty on Facebook.

ABOUT THE FUTURE OF WORK

Welcome to Future of Work Radio Show and Podcast – where business leaders share how they integrate humanity and technology through innovative approaches, healthy culture, flexible workspaces and seamless virtual technology.

ABOUT YOUR CO-HOSTS

With a focus in marketing and a background in various for profit and not for profit companies, including much professional and volunteer work, Kyle McIntosh wondered, “How can I pair the passion and commitment to community progress of a non-profit with the sustainability and reach of a for profit company?”

From this question and perspective a mission evolved to tear down the false distinction between the two sectors and to promote companies with Conscious Capitalism® business models through MAC6.

Albert Loveland has joined the MAC⁶ Team full-time. Al will be helping us to takeMAC⁶ to the next level as Vice President of Operations(and, for all of you who are familiar with EOS, as the MAC⁶Integrator).

Al brings over 25 years of experience in leadership and operational efficiency, first working for JPMorgan Chase for fifteen years and then, for the past decade, with his own consulting business working with small businesses, non-profits, and entrepreneurs.

Al has been working from MAC⁶ as a community member for five years now, acting as the unofficial ‘Mayor of MAC⁶’and helping every day to make this community a great place to be. Please join us in congratulating him as the now Official Mayor of MAC⁶ and as an integral new part of our team!

To learn more about MAC6 Communities, call 480-293-4075 or find them on LinkedIn and Facebook.

ABOUT OUR SPONSOR

MAC⁶ offers flexible spaces and programs to help your team grow, and a community of thriving businesses, just like yours. Advocating Capitalism as a Force for Good, MAC6 is Accelerating the shift to Conscious Capitalism (where Purpose and Profit Unite) through Creativity, Collaboration, Community and Change.

Building the Pipeline of STEM Talent for Tomorrow’s Workforce Needs E29

August 29, 2022 by Karen

Building-the-Pipeline-of-STEM-Talent-for-Tomorrows-Workforce-Needs-E2Building-the-Pipeline-of-STEM-Talent-for-Tomorrows-Workforce-Needs-feature

AZ TechCast

Building the Pipeline of STEM Talent for Tomorrow’s Workforce Needs E29

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Building the Pipeline of STEM Talent for Tomorrow’s Workforce Needs E29

It’s no secret that Arizona is an attractive place for technology companies to call home. But with more technology companies being founded locally and relocating to Arizona from out-of-state, how can we ensure we have enough qualified technology talent to fill highly technical positions?

The August 2022 episode of the Arizona Technology Council’s AZTechCast podcast featured experts including Julie Bonner, director of communications at FreeFall Aerospace; Claire Conway, Arizona STEM ecosystem programs manager at SciTech Institute; and Betsy Hargrove, superintendent of the Avondale Elementary School District. These leaders joined Karen Nowicki, president and owner of Phoenix Business RadioX, and Steve Zylstra, president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council and SciTech Institute, in discussing the importance of STEM education in building the pipeline of technology talent for today and tomorrow’s workforce needs.

Throughout this hour-long episode, this panel of STEM experts spoke about how the growing number of technology companies calling Arizona home is creating an intensified demand for qualified talent to fill technical roles. But to hire talent effectively, our panel of experts recommended shifting the conversation away from “developing the pipeline of STEM talent” and towards focusing on students and their career pathways.

FreeFall Aerospace is developing innovative antenna solutions for space and ground systems. Expertise derived from radio astronomy at the University of Arizona and planetary exploration research from NASA JPL provides a new perspective on the challenges of high-frequency satellite communication.

FreeFall is proud to have received the Startup Innovator of the Year Award from the Arizona Commerce Authority and Arizona Technology Council.

Julie Bonner, Director of Communications for FreeFall Aerospace, connects partners, vendors, and investors to FreeFall’s innovative antenna systems. She’s developed branding and marketing campaigns for national corporations like Mister Car Wash and Clear Channel Outdoor to more Arizona-based start-ups and non-profits.

She has been awarded the Tucson AdFed Next Generation Award for significantly impacting the advertising industry through leadership, career achievements, and personal qualities. She is the Chair of the Women in the Workforce of the Arizona Technology Council, an organizer for CreativeMornings/Tucson, and is active in Local First Arizona and Start-Up Tucson.

Julie holds a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design from Drexel University and an MBA.

Follow FreeFall Aerospace on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

The Avondale Elementary School District was established in 1894. We have the highest percentage of A rated schools in the Southwest Valley. Located west of Phoenix, our district is home to nine schools ranging from preschool through eighth grade with several magnet programs.

We have been recognized at the national and state level for our passion and commitment for educational excellence. Having obtained numerous A ratings for our schools, we continue to be a leader in public education. We are proud to be the district of choice.

Dr. Betsy Hargrove has been the Superintendent of the Avondale Elementary School District (AESD) since 2012 after having served as the Assistant Superintendent since March 2009. She provides ongoing leadership in creating a positive climate of high expectations for all involved with the educational programs of the district.

She also works to engage in the continuous improvement of the Avondale educational community by implementing and monitoring the achievement of district goals and mission for every student to grow as a thinker, problem solver and communicator to pursue a future without limits. Ensuring this mission is reached, Dr. Hargrove and her team actively seek opportunities to build relationships with community stakeholders, business people and civic leaders to make connections within the district and sites.

The Avondale Elementary School District has embedded continuous improvement focus in all systems throughout the organization. Layering of high yield instructional practices, job embedded professional development, focused and collaborative accountability, and teacher and leader empowerment has demonstrated ongoing success. The result is that AESD has outperformed the state in growth in achievement four years in a row.

Dr. Hargrove has presented at the American Educational Research Association, Character Education Forum, National Staff Development Council Mega Conference, TAP National Conferences, 21st Century STEM Conference, Arizona School Administrators, National School Board Association, U.S. News STEM Solutions National Leadership Conference, School Connect Summit and American Association of School Administrators to share this approach and highlight the successes of the Avondale Elementary School District. Beyond the shared professional and academic accomplishments of the entire AESD community, Dr. Hargrove is most proud of her two daughters, Morgan and Clare.

Follow The Avondale Elementary School District on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

SciTech Institute™ was established as the Arizona Technology Council Foundation as the conduit for collaboration among STEM industry, academia, civic, and non-profit organizations in Arizona. Now, rebranded and named the SciTech Institute™ the goal centers around aligning assets and resources to motivate individuals to pursue STEM-related educational and career paths or find a passion while engaged in community events during the SciTech Festival.

The Chief Science Officer program highlights the 6th-12th graders that have been selected as leaders in their schools and communities to receive training to build a world-class community of diverse STEM-literate workers and knowledgeable, engaged citizens. Science For All allows for tax credit donations to provide engaging experiences for students while RAIN (Rural Activation Innovation Network) focuses on resources for the rural areas of Arizona.

As a STEM Learning Ecosystem, SciTech Institute™ focuses on collaboration and connecting individuals with opportunities! STEM Professionals are encouraged to engage with the future workforce by serving as a mentor, leadership coach, panelist, keynote and session trainer during a variety of conferences hosted or sponsored by SciTech Institute™ and The Arizona Technology Council.

Teachers and Administrators are invited to connect with the resources available while activating a large network of STEM champions for student projects, judges at events, volunteers, exhibitors and more. SciTech Festival Event Coordinators are supported during the planning and execution of community STEM events around the state by the SciTech STREET Team Members and the growing network of volunteers. The possibilities are endless! SciTech Institute™ looks forward to connecting with you today. Visit SciTechInstitute.org today for more information.

Claire Conway serves as the Arizona STEM Ecosystem Programs Manager at SciTech Institute. In her role, she collaborates with STEM partners in industry, education, nonprofit, government, and community organizations across Arizona to develop regional STEM hubs that connect and align efforts in our local communities. She also coordinates statewide working groups on the future STEM workforce and STEM programming in Arizona libraries. As a facilitator of the Arizona STEM Ecosystem, she is a connection point between students such as the Chief Science Officers, educators, out-of-school programs, workforce opportunities, and industry experts.

Claire holds a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Southern California, where she conducted research in biomaterials and nanomedicine and coordinated volunteer programming for the university. An Arizona native and lifelong STEM enthusiast, she is passionate about fostering a STEM community where ALL students are able to chase their passions and access the many opportunities our state has to offer.

Follow SciTech Institute on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About AZ TechCast

AZ TechCast is dedicated to covering innovation and technology in Arizona and beyond.

Through the art of connected conversation, AZ TechCast’s guests will share their expertise, success stories, news and analysis about the region’s leading startups, companies and emerging technologies, as well as the latest industry trends and critical issues propelling the state’s growing technology ecosystem.

About Your Hosts

Steve Zylstra serves as president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council, a role he assumed in 2007. He is responsible for strategy, operations, finance and policy development. Zylstra is a vocal spokesman for the value technology can provide in raising social and economic standards in Arizona.

Zylstra serves on numerous councils, committees and boards, was named “Leader of the Year, Technology,” by the Arizona Capitol Times, and “Most Admired Leader” by the Phoenix Business Journal. In addition, he was awarded an honorary doctorate of science in technology from the University of Advancing Technology in Tempe, Ariz.

Zylstra earned a bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering technology from Western Michigan University.

Karen Nowicki is a successful author, speaker and the creator of Deep Impact Leadership™ and SoulMarks Coaching™. She is a two-time recipient of the prestigious national Choice Award® for her book and personal development retreat. Karen was crowned the first-ever “Mompreneur of the Year” Award in 2010 for the southwestern states. She was recognized for her leadership, business acumen, and work-life balance.

Karen has been an expert guest on regional TV and radio shows, including Fox Phoenix Morning Show, Sonoran Living, Good Morning Arizona, The Chat Room, and Mid-Day Arizona. She has been a regular contributor to many print and online magazines – publishing articles and blogs for business and education.

In addition to working with private coaching clients, Karen is also the Owner & President of Phoenix Business RadioX. The Business RadioX Network amplifies the voice of business – serving the Fortune 500,000, not just the Fortune 500. Phoenix Business RadioX helps local businesses and professional associations get the word out about the important work they’re doing to serve their market, profession, and community.

Of all the experiences Karen has had the privilege of participating in over her vast career, she shares that Phoenix Business RadioX is a pinnacle adventure!

Connect with Karen on LinkedIn and follow Phoenix Business RadioX on Facebook and Instagram.

Born in Phoenix, Arizona, Bianca Buliga is a trilingual first-generation American of Romanian ethnicity. A marketing professional with experience in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, Bianca currently works as Director, Marketing & Communications for the Arizona Technology Council.

Previously, Bianca worked as Marketing Communications Lead at Proctorio, a learning integrity platform that offers remote proctoring software ensuring exam integrity for learners around the world.

Bianca also worked as Senior Marketing Manager at SEED SPOT, a social impact incubator that educates, accelerates, and invests in impact-driven entrepreneurs creating market-based solutions to social problems. In January of 2020, Bianca was selected as an awardee of the Mandela Washington Reciprocal Exchange Program and traveled to the African island of Mauritius to run entrepreneurship programming for 15 impact-driven ecopreneurs on behalf of the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

Bianca has also completed comprehensive consulting projects for IBM, ESAN Business School, and the Peruvian government, and interned at the Arizona House of Representatives and U.S. Embassy in Bucharest, Romania.

Bianca earned her Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs from Northern Arizona University in 2014 and her Master’s degree in Global Affairs and Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in 2017. She is an avid reader, yogi, and world traveler always planning her next trip.

Connect with Bianca on LinkedIn.

About Our Sponsor

The Arizona Technology Council, Arizona’s only statewide organization serving the technology sector, fosters a climate of innovation to enhance technology in Arizona.

A trusted resource in strengthening Arizona’s technology industry, the Council proactively eliminates impediments that companies face, accelerates the entrepreneurial mindset in the state’s expanding innovation ecosystem, and works to create a destination for companies to be, thrive and stay.

Follow Arizona Technology Council on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Exploring STEM Hobbies E19

January 20, 2022 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Exploring STEM Hobbies E19

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Exploring STEM Hobbies E19

Hobbies are what we work hard to have the time to enjoy, right? Imagine exploring new ideas and activities to find your favorite. Now consider the career pathways related to that hobby and what you would like to call work.

The Arizona SciTech Festival is an opportunity to engage in new experiences to help identify a passion in STEM. Join us online or in person at a variety of community events! You are a Scientist!

Guests on this episode share their diverse backgrounds and their journey to STEM. We discuss the common misconceptions of certain hobbies, including difficulty levels and out of this world ideas. Listen in as we celebrate the need for failure and exposure to new ideas.

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension takes the science of the University to the people of Arizona through programs, publications, classes, events and one-on-one teaching. Cooperative Extension is one of the pillars of The University of Arizona’s Division of Agriculture, Life & Veterinary Sciences & Cooperative Extension.

We are about “Improving Lives, Communities and the Economy” by serving as a statewide network of knowledgeable faculty and staff that provides lifelong educational programs for all Arizonans.

We are part of a nationwide educational network of scientists and educators who help people solve problems and put knowledge to use. Arizona Cooperative Extension provides a link between the university and the citizens of this state.

Anne LeSenne has been involved with horticulture her entire life having grown up on a farm and having a large garden ever since. Anne has both her Bachelor’s degree (BYU Idaho) and Masters degree (Texas Tech) in Horticulture.

Professionally she has been a Landscape/Irrigation Designer, Wholesale Nursery Salesperson, Arborist, Landscape Maintenance manager, and most recently a Teacher at a college in Oregon, teaching Horticulture.

She is also a board certified Master Arborist with the International Society of Arboriculture and a beekeeper.

Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association provides opportunities for members and the community to learn about and share the joy and excitement of astronomy through observing, education, and fun.

Jim Knoll has a bachelors degree in Business Management and a Masters in Business Organizational Management. He is a retired Air Force and Government Civilian.

He is serving on the Board of Directors for the Friends of Agua Caliente, a local county park in Tucson, AZ as Past President, current Treasurer and Membership Chair.

Jim is a volunteer with the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association as Star Party Manager, Director of the Chiricahua Astronomy Complex, and Social Media manager.

Follow Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association on Facebook.

Southwest Maker Fest is a collaborative one-day festival and community of makers seeking to achieve the vision of a connected community, empowered by creativity. The Southwest Maker Fest (SWMF) mission is to celebrate, engage, and inspire the maker in each of us.

The upcoming Southwest Maker Fest will be held Saturday, February 19, 2022, 10am-4pm along Macdonald between Main Street and Pepper Place in downtown Mesa.

For almost 20 years Michael Savarese has been designing, building and programming professionally as well as for fun. Just over 4 years ago he became involved with the planning and running of the annual Southwest Maker Fest in Mesa, AZ.

Along with the lead up to the day of the Festival, he also runs a workshop teaching kids to create their own boardgames with materials and guided instruction.

Follow Southwwest Maker Fest on Facebook and Twitter.

The Chandler Public Library serves the community through literacy building, information sharing, gathering spaces, and by providing unique learning opportunities.

With the creation of The Makery – a suite of spaces that includes a programming room, production studio, and maker lab – is the Library adding a new resource to realize our mission in the 21st century.

The Makery will include subject matter experts, hardware, and software that will address the digital literacy gap by ensuring all community members will have the opportunity to build their skills with digital creation software, coding, design, and gain access to technological equipment.

Stacey Akahoshi is the Makerspace Librarian at the Chandler Public Library. She is responsible for The Makery, a free makerspace that increases community access to emerging technologies and traditional maker resources.

Stacey is a visionary professional, that loves to create new ideas and incorporate innovation and diversity into her projects. Currently, she serves on the Arizona Library Association EDI committee, JCLC Conference Marketing Committee, is the Advisor of Inclusion at the ASU chapter of Pi Beta Phi.

Stacey enjoys playing soccer and training dogs outside of work.

Follow Chandler Public Library on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Our Sponsor

Follow SciTech Institute on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Your STEM Unplugged Hosts

After grow up in rural New York and joining the United States Army, Kelly Greene learned quickly to adapt to her surroundings to be successful. She attended Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education.

She also enlisted in the United States Army and after graduating from training, Kelly traveled the world with the military. While stationed in Misawa, Japan, she fell in love with learning about cultures around the world. Even as a deployed Soldier during Operation Iraqi Freedom for two tours, she found opportunities to connect with the local children to form the Victory Base Council Girl Scouts with her fellow servicemen.

In 2013, she was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and traveled the country by air. During this deployment, she had the opportunity to utilize the most advanced technologies available to the tactical HUMINT operations in theater. Upon return from combat, she retired with 21 years of service and began teaching. From 6th grade Math to 7th grade STEM, Kelly used her enthusiastic nature combined with her strong classroom management to design curriculum based on the Engineering Design Process!

Now, as the Chief Operating Officer at SciTech Institute, Kelly is excited to serve the communities in Arizona and beyond to share their interest in STEM!

Claire Conway is the STEM Ecosystem Programs Manager at SciTech Institute.

Connect with Claire on LinkedIn.

STEM over the Summer E10

May 12, 2021 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

STEM over the Summer E10

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STEM over the Summer E10

STEM Unplugged – STEM over the Summer was a discussion with collaborative nonprofit partners at Lowell Observatory, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Pathways to Learning. In this episode, Kelly, Tom and Elise explored ways for community members to engage in hands on STEM to find their identity as learners.

Lowell Observatory has a unique methodology for teaching which focuses on STEM for all levels, including thermodynamics for preschoolers! Pathways to Learning has created new approaches to engaging learners with STEAM in a backpack, Ag in a Bag and the mobile STEAM lab. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is focused on connecting the community with hands on activities at the library, with current undergrads and more!

The mission of Lowell Observatory is to pursue the study of astronomy, especially the study of our solar system and its evolution; to conduct pure research in astronomical phenomena; and to maintain quality public education and outreach programs to bring the results of astronomical research to the general public.

Kelly Ferguson has served as the Education Coordinator at Lowell Observatory since October 2015. She joined the observatory staff in 2014 as a public program educator while she finished her Master’s program at Northern Arizona University. She also runs camp programs for children ages 3-14.

Kelly earned her M.S. in Applied Physics in 2016 and has dedicated her time to teaching formal science in an informal setting. Kelly is currently back in school to get a certificate in early childhood development. For the past 14 years, Kelly has worked with young children in underprivileged areas of her community, bringing her love and passion for STEM education to as many as possible.

Follow Lowell Observatory on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Those who are part of the educational landscape are discovering that formal education is more than just four walled classrooms in our cities. Today, there are learning landscapes and systems that meet the students where they learn the best, in green (outdoor) spaces. There are volumes of research supporting this!

Pathways to Learning (PTL) organizes interest-driven exploration that fuels connected growth among people and the planet. Its ability to combine and reconfigure three separate but synergistic platforms enables Pathways to Progressive Learning to build educational products and events that every experience builds upward–each on top of the last—while, at the same time, inviting every customer to venture further outward from familiar sites to new settings.

Trailblazing educational opportunities from valley basins to mountain peaks – it is so important we stake our name on it. No two customers are the same. Some prefer educational tours, others want a map and a compass.

One of key initiative PTL has developed is it Outdoor STEM Centered Education program (OSCE). Since the beginning of OSCE eight years ago, 350 schools, 1,440 teachers and 27,000 campers from Metro Phoenix and rural Arizona communities have participated in OSCE and 50% of which are Title 1 schools.

OSCE is delivered through different PTL Learning Platforms; mountain learning platforms, Mobil STEM Discovery Lap and STEAM in a Backpack and Ag. in a Bag. These can be utilized through its Pathways to Progressive Learning.

Tom Fraker, CEO of Pathways to Learning (PTL), has worked for more than 35 years in the business and nonprofit sector, focusing his entrepreneurial skills on creating and developing successful organizations by blending the passion of the non-profit sector with the discipline and organizational structuring of the private sector.

His synergistic approach has been enhanced across sectors (private, public and non-profit) by integrating relationships and the development of partnerships.

Follow STEAM in a Backpack on Facebook and Instagram, Chauncey Ranch & Camp on Facebook and Instagram, and Camp Tontozonia on Facebook.

Embry-Riddle STEM Outreach is committed to the academic disciplines of science, technology, engineering and mathematics – a STEM-based education. The Embry-Riddle faculty and students have worked with the community to share in this commitment to STEM-centered experiential and project-based learning.

The STEM Education Center, alongside the Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium, support existing STEM outreach efforts by faculty and students to sustain a culture of STEM literacy and enthusiasm in the Quad Cities. The Embry-Riddle STEM Education Center fills a vital need for promoting and enhancing STEM education at Embry-Riddle, in local K-12 schools, and in the community at large.

Elise Corcoran began as the Director of STEM Outreach in the spring of 2021. She is a passionate educator with over 15 years of experience teaching students and leading staff in wilderness and classroom settings.

With a background in education and a master’s degree in Natural Resources and GIS, Elise has always been involved in both science and education. She is committed to teaching scientific literacy skills to promote responsibility, problem solving, and global thinking in the next generation.

She is delighted to be a part of the ERAU team and help inspire children’s interest in the STEM fields.

Follow the Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium on Facebook.

About Our Sponsor

Follow SciTech Institute on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Your STEM Unplugged Host

After graduating from Bolivar-Richburg High School in rural western New York and joining the United States Army, Kelly Greene learned quickly to adapt to her surroundings to be successful. She attended Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio and played shortstop on the Tiger softball team while earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education.

After graduating from Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training, she traveled the world with the military. While stationed in Misawa, Japan, Kelly fell in love with learning about cultures around the world. Even as a deployed Soldier during Operation Iraqi Freedom for two tours, she found opportunities to connect with the local children to form the Victory Base Council Girl Scouts with her fellow servicemen.

In 2013, she was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and traveled the country by air and had the opportunity to utilize the most advanced technologies available to the tactical HUMINT operations in theater. Upon return from combat, she retired with 21 years of service and began teaching 6th grade Math.

After being selected as a Westside Impact Teacher of the Year and having her Fiesta Bowl Charities Wish Granted for a morning news studio, she was asked to begin a new class on campus – 7th grade STEM! Using her enthusiastic nature and combined with her strong classroom management she was able to design curriculum based on the Engineering Design Process to have her 7th graders complete a new project every 2 weeks!

She is excited to serve as the Director of Student Success for the rapidly expanding Chief Science Officers Program. Her goal is to push students just a bit outside of their comfort zone so they can see for themselves the power of their own ideas.

Exploring Ways STEM Rocks E6

October 2, 2020 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Exploring Ways STEM Rocks E6

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Exploring Ways STEM Rocks E6

During the month of September, SciTech Institute wanted to highlight the ways STEM rocks. In this episode, we connected with four women in mining to highlight their passion for geology. We want to recognize the effort from Freeport McMoRan and the Arizona Chapter of WIM to highlight the opportunities in our state.

Exploring Ways STEM Rocks listeners will want to tune in to hear ways to get connected in Arizona.

Freeport-McMoRan (FCX) is a leading international mining company with headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona. They operate large, long-lived geographically diverse assets with significant proven and probable reserves of copper, gold and molybdenum. Their portfolio of assets includes the Grasberg minerals district in Indonesia, one of the world’s largest copper and gold deposits; and significant mining operations in the Americas, including the large-scale Morenci minerals district in North America and the Cerro Verde operation in South America.

The safety and health of all employees is their highest priority. Management believes that safety and health considerations are integral to, and compatible with, all other functions in the organization and that proper safety and health management will enhance production and reduce costs. Their approach towards the health and safety of their workforce is to continuously improve performance through implementing robust management systems and providing adequate training, safety incentive and occupational health programs.

FCX is a founding member of the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM). Implementation of the ICMM Sustainable Development Framework across the company results in site-level sustainability programs that meet responsible sourcing objectives for the global marketplace.

Their stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “FCX.”

Angie Harmon is Freeport-McMoRan Inc.’s Regional Community Development Manager, North America. She is based in Phoenix, AZ at the company’s corporate headquarters.

Angie supports Freeport’s investment in community-related programs and initiatives across the US, aligning the company’s philanthropic outreach with overall corporate goals through the work of the Freeport-McMoRan Foundation.

In addition, she works in partnership with the company’s North American mining operations in their community development functions including stakeholder engagement and strategic contributions. Angie is on the board of the Arizona Science Center and the SciTech Institute.

Angie has a BA in political science as well as her MBA. She and her husband have two sons and live in Scottsdale, AZ.

Follow Freeport-McMoRan on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Women in Mining Arizona’s vision is to be a non-governmental organization that focused on attracting, retaining and advancing professionals in the mining industry as well educating the members and the public in the various aspects of mining. We are an inclusive organization, everyone is welcome to participate.

Molly Radwany is a Master of Science student in the Mining Engineering department at the University of Arizona with a focus on geometallurgy. She currently works as an engineering intern at Call & Nicholas and formerly worked as a geology intern for Freeport-McMoRan. Molly is passionate about a future career in mining and working to address the obstacles that face women in the industry.

Julia Potter is a geologist and geotechnical engineer with Call & Nicholas, where she specializes in geostatistics and 3D block modeling. She enjoys applying a creative approach to her technical work, which has included open-pit and underground mining operations at every stage of project development, throughout North America, Western Turkey and central Africa. Julia holds a BS in Geology and History from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire and a Master of Engineering from the University of Arizona.

Maria Bertram is WIM AZ’s Vice President. For the last five years, Maria has worked in Freeport-McMoRan’s recruiting department as an events planner and college recruiter. In her role she is responsible for managing the Company’s relationship with universities across the country, and engaging with students and new graduates on and off campus. Prior to joining Freeport-McMoRan, Maria worked in the marketing departments for Arizona Snowbowl and the Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce in Flagstaff, Arizona. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Northern Arizona University and is pursuing her MBA through University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign.

Follow Women in Mining Arizona on LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Our Sponsor

Follow SciTech Institute on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Your STEM Unplugged Host

Exploring Community Partnerships E3

March 12, 2020 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Exploring Community Partnerships E3

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Exploring Community Partnerships E3

Eric, Leann and Caillou shared personal experiences about why mentors make a difference in the opportunities one feels confident to take in deciding a career. They are open and honest about the growing need for experience and exposure to Advanced Manufacturing careers.

Boeing is the world’s largest aerospace company and leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners, defense, space and security systems, and service provider of aftermarket support. As America’s biggest manufacturing exporter, the company supports airlines and U.S. and allied government customers in more than 150 countries.

Boeing products and tailored services include commercial and military aircraft, satellites, weapons, electronic and defense systems, launch systems, advanced information and communication systems, and performance-based logistics and training.

As a Community Investor for The Boeing Company, Leann Shaffer leads social responsibility and corporate citizenship activities in Arizona and New Mexico. In this role, she implements Boeing’s strategic philanthropy through charitable investments, volunteer programs, employee drives and other integrated programs.

Prior to this role and coming to The Boeing Company, Shaffer began her career as a software engineer and has held several dynamic roles in tech which included leadership development training, leading recruiting and internship programs and developing and implementing workforce pipeline strategies.

Leann’s passion for STEM is rooted in her own journey and background in IT, and it’s why she believes every student should have a role model and access to STEM opportunities.

Follow Boeing on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

PADT is the Southwest’s leading provider of products and services for mechanical engineering. Established in 1994, their 85 employees focus on numerical simulation, product development, and 3D Printing. Although based in Tempe, Arizona, they have offices in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and California.

Eric Miller is a co-owner of Tempe based PADT, which provides tools and services to companies who design and manufacture physical products. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from UC Berkeley.

As co-founder of PADT in 1994, Eric was able to pursue his interests in simulation, 3D printing, operations, and small business management. Eric is often called upon to write and speak on simulation, design, and 3D Printing as well as on startups and the high-tech sector.

In addition, he is a board member for several tech-related organizations and Chair of the Arizona Technology Council Board of Directors.

Connect with Eric on LinkedIn.

Recently named an 18 Under 18 recipient by Junior Achievement and Arizona Republic, Caillou Peña is proud to represent the importance of empowering today’s youth to tackle tomorrow’s biggest challenges.

With previous experience in constitutional law, entrepreneurship and as a Chief Science Officer, currently, he is a member of the Institute for Policy and Strategy at Carnegie Mellon University where he is studying International Relations and Politics with hopes of using this knowledge to expand educational opportunities for all.

Impassioned with a vision to stimulate positive change in communities worldwide, Caillou, is thrilled to be working at the SciTech Institute where he has witnessed first hand that he can do just that.

Connect with Caillou on LinkedIn.

About Your STEM Unplugged Host

Follow SciTech Institute on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Your Host

About Your Co-Host

Chief Science Officer (CSO) Shalae Clemens is a member of the International Leadership Council and the current CSO of the Year.

She is a freshman at McClintock High School and a 3rd year CSO.

Shalae has a passion for STEM and is using her leadership skills to prepare the STEM workforce of tomorrow.

Connect with Shalae on Instagram.

Alpharetta Tech Talk: Karen Cashion, Tech Alpharetta

January 24, 2020 by John Ray

Alpharetta Tech Talk

Alpharetta Tech Talk: Karen Cashion, Tech Alpharetta

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“Alpharetta Tech Talk,” Episode 7: Karen Cashion, Tech Alpharetta

Tech Alpharetta CEO Karen Cashion joined “Alpharetta Tech Talk” to discuss Tech Alpharetta’s mission to create a fertile environment for the technology sector in Alpharetta. “Alpharetta Tech Talk” is hosted by John Ray and broadcast from the North Fulton Business RadioX® studio inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Karen Cashion, Tech Alpharetta

Karen Cashion is CEO of Tech Alpharetta, an independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to help grow technology and innovation in Alpharetta, GA. Karen develops and implements strategic initiatives for Tech Alpharetta, operates the Innovation Center, and reports to the Tech Alpharetta Board. Tech Alpharetta has three service pillars: a strategic advisory board; a startup incubator; and an events arm that holds locally-based educational and networking events for technology executives. The City of Alpharetta formed Alpharetta Technology Commission in 2012, and was granted 501c(6) nonprofit trade association status in 2015. The advisory board is comprised of some of the leading local technology companies, including emerging, intermediate and enterprise-sized businesses, along with community partner organizations and an investment firm.

Karen is a technology attorney with twenty years of legal experience. Karen received her undergraduate degree from Emory University summa cum laude, and she graduated from Duke Law School with high honors. Karen, who has served as both in-house counsel and outside counsel to numerous technology companies, including Travelport and EarthLink, is also the founder of the Greater Alpharetta Tech Network (“GATN”), which she founded in 2013, and which merged into Tech Alpharetta in late 2017.

For more information, you can contact Karen through LinkedIn. To learn more on Tech Alpharetta, you can find their website here.

“Alpharetta Tech Talk” is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®, located inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta. Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has grown to become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions with approximately $12.9 billion in assets and more than 190 banking, lending, wealth management and financial services offices in Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia and Florida. All of Renasant’s success stems from each of their banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way of better understanding the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you.

Exploring Women in STEM E1

January 21, 2020 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Exploring Women in STEM E1

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Exploring Women in STEM E1

SciTech Institute was established as a nonprofit organization as a conduit for collaboration among STEM industry, academia, civic, and non-profit organizations to align assets and resources to motivate individuals to pursue STEM-related educational and career paths. Together, we will build a world-class community of diverse STEM-literate workers and knowledgeable, engaged citizens.

Jacob Lounsbury graduated from Western Michigan University in December of 2000 with quadruple minors Elementary Education, Math, General Science, and Language Arts. In January he started teaching full time for the Saginaw Public School District. In the District Jacob was responsible for Seventh and eighth Grade Science Education at North Middle School. Jacob Was also involved in the Schools Basketball Program and Track Program, coaching the School’s Girls Basketball Team and coaching the School’s track team.

Jacob was also a member of the Michigan National Guard, serving as a Cavalry Scout. Jacob spent nearly 10 years in service, including 5 years active time. The active time in the Guard included a combat deployment to Kandahar province, Afghanistan. In Afghanistan Jacob was a Gunner, Truck Commander, Squad Leader, Biometrics Security Specialist, and Key Leader Engagement Team Lead.

Upon returning home from Afghanistan Jacob returned to the classroom. Teaching in Bridgeport Michigan, Jacob taught 8th grade Science and Writing, as well as was the advisor of the Schools Student Council, Girls Track and Basketball Coach, Team Achieve Committee Chair and Karaoke Club Advisor. Through active involvement in the school’s STEM engagement plan, Jacob became part of the CSO community as an Advisor, then moved to a team member, first going to Kuwait for their initial Leadership Training Institute, then moved to working of the guides as part of the Global Implementation Team.

Jake is now the Director of Global Partnerships for Chief Science Officers International. In this role, Jake serves as a “Jake of all Trades” working on government and corporate partnerships, implementation and logistics of new and continuing programs, the Middle East Liaison team lead, diplomatic advisor and much more. You will still find Jake in the front of the programs many cabinets both nationally and internationally leading training with both the students and advisors alike.

Connect with Jake on Instagram.

Viasat Inc. (NASDAQ: VSAT) is a global communications company that believes everyone and everything in the world can be connected. Tempe, AZ hosts Viasat’s Space and Commercial Networks division and a satellite manufacturing facility, which is designing and building the most powerful satellite broadband constellation to-date.

Sarah Shepis graduated from the University of Arizona in 2017 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Materials Science and Engineering. For the past two years she has worked at Viasat Inc. as a materials/mechanical hybrid engineer. Her work focuses on optimizing the design of commercial, military and space technologies used to connect the world.

In addition to her fervor for technological advancement, Sarah feels passionately about making STEM opportunities more accessible to women and all youth. Sarah is an avid outreach volunteer and mentor of the CSO of the year, CSO Shalae!

To find balance in the life of an engineer, Sarah enjoys the great outdoors, being a Viasat photo ambassador and unofficial yoga teacher for other engineers.

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn and follow Viasat Inc. on Twitter.

Katy Reno, Community Outreach Manager, SciTech Institute.

Chief Science Officer (CSO) Shalae Clemens is a member of the International Leadership Council and the current CSO of the Year.

She is a freshman at McClintock High School and a 3rd year CSO.

Shalae has a passion for STEM and is using her leadership skills to prepare the STEM workforce of tomorrow.

Connect with Shalae on Instagram.

About Our Sponsor

Follow SciTech Institute on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Your STEM Unplugged Host

Franchise Marketing Radio: Haydne and Toqeer Chouhan with IDEA Lab Kids

December 12, 2019 by angishields

Atlanta Business Radio

Franchise Marketing Radio: Haydne and Toqeer Chouhan with IDEA Lab Kids

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In 2011, entrepreneur and mother of three Ghazal Qureshi became interested in an after-school program that would provide an intellectually stimulating, hands-on educational experience for children—so she created IDEA Lab Kids.

The Houston-based company offers more than 50 uniquely integrated science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) courses designed to inspire and engage children from ages 4 to 14. Since the concept began franchising in February 2017, a total of 87 campuses have been awarded to more than 24 franchisees with over 20 new franchises set to open by 2020. The brand now has plans to grow internationally as well as to award up to 700 domestic locations within the next four years.

Husband-and-wife team, Toqeer and Haydne Chouhan, opened Georgia’s first IDEA Lab Kids in Smyrna on November 2nd, 2019. The couple signed on to open 8 Georgia locations over the next 5 years and hope to expand to the cities of Marietta, Roswell or Decatur in the future.

The Mableton locals both graduated from Berry College. Haydne has worked as an interior designer and Toqeer practices law. After having their first child, the two discussed finally realizing their dream of business ownership and were introduced to IDEA Lab Kids by a family member. They were impressed by the STEAM-based education franchise and decided to become business owners with IDEA Lab Kids and brought the first location to the state of Georgia.

Follow IDEA Lab Kids on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Questions and Topics in this Interview