Curriculum Vitae
I aim to teach Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) using an inquiry-based and hands-on approach. My goal is not to have students merely memorize facts, but to comprehend the concepts and processes involved in solving problems, both independently and collaboratively. I aspire to revolutionize the way people perceive STEM education and to foster skills that will promote innovation in the future.
In the recent years, I have come to realize the benefits of adopting a maker's mindset in education. By creating appropriate challenges that encourage creative thinking and problem-solving skills across the curriculum, I have been able to motivate children to be more innovative and unafraid of making mistakes.
Experience
Science Friday Initiative
New York, NY, August 2022 - present
Education Program Manager
Make Community, LLC
Santa Rosa, CA, March 2021 - August 2022
Maker Camp Coordinator and Community Manager
Kaleidoscope Enrichment, LLC
Blairstown, NJ, July 2011 – present
Director, Educator
Warren County Library System
Belvidere, NJ, June 2018 – March 2021
Makerspace Coordinator, STEM Educator
Pope John XXIII Middle School
Sparta, NJ, September 2016 – June 2018
Engineering Design and Science Teacher
Reverend Brown Memorial School
Sparta, NJ, September 2009 – July 2011
Middle School Science and Math Teacher
Education
Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken, NJ, August 1993 – May 1997
Bachelor of Science; Major: Chemical Biology; Minor: Literature; Certificate: Chemical Engineering, Computer Science
Sussex County Community College
Newton, NJ, July 2009 – June 2010
New Pathways to Teaching in New Jersey
Alternate Route Program
Center for Mathematics, Science and Computer Education
New Brunswick, NJ, January 2022 – December 2022
Graduate Certificate in Maker Education
Stevenson University
Owings Mills, MD, March 2023 – present
Master of Arts in Community-Based Education and Leadership, graduating May 2024
Recent Speaking Engagements
White House Summit on STEMM Equity and Excellence: Propelling Progress and Prosperity by 2050 (my panel is at the 2 hour mark)
National Science Teaching Association National Convention in Denver (not available online, please contact for details)
The Human Element: Ethics, Equity, and the Educator's Role in AI (registration required, free)
STEM, Your Classroom, and Community: Fostering Connections, Engagement, and Outreach (registration required, free)
Canadian Association of Science Centres Annual Conference, Managing AI: Aligning Technology with Educational Missions (not available online, please contact for details)
Recent Written Works
The Big Book of Maker Camp Projects
This entertaining guide contains dozens of start-to-finish projects that enable you to host an engaging makercamp―the kids won’t even know they’re learning! Written by an experienced teacher and dedicated hobbyist, The Big Book of Maker Camp Projects clearly explains the awesome activities that will make your camp epic. Wearables, electronics, arts and crafts, cosplay, and other favorite topics are fully covered.
With expert advice on howto create your own unique program, you will discover how to host the coolest camp on the block and inspire young hobbyists to hone their skills and gain confidence.
Recent Educational Programs
Hack Your Brain: Free Online Science Escape Room For Kids funded by the Dana Foundation
Bright Idea: Science Friday’s Sun Camp funded by NASA HEAT
Down to Earth: Bring the Science of the International Space Station to You Community (in development) funded by CASIS
Equitable STEM Access by Promoting Unconventional STEM Career Pathways (in development) funded by Beyond100K