Jeffco STEM Advisory Committee
Jeffco Public Schools (Jeffco) and Jeffco Schools Foundation have formed a twenty-five-member cross-sector Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Advisory Committee. The formation of this committee builds on the investments of the Gill Foundation, with the announcement of $340,000 in funding for a fourth year in 2021-22, totaling over $1.2 Million in STEM SmartLab investments. Gill Foundation support impacts nine schools throughout the Arvada articulation area, with the majority of schools serving high-need students.
The Jeffco STEM Advisory Committee was formed to engage a variety of partners to inform STEM learning in schools and to build on the existing STEM education efforts from the community. These include important investors like the Gill Foundation, to increase relevance, equity, and access to STEM learning and opportunities across the school district.
“The school district aspires to prepare students for bright futures right here in Jefferson County and beyond” said Angela Baber, executive director of Jeffco Schools Foundation. “STEM education and opportunity is a key component to ensure that every Jeffco student is prepared for the work environments that await them. We believe in building strong partnerships within our community to benefit students. Together, with our world class industries, community, and postsecondary institutions, we want to ensure that every Jeffco student is able to access STEM education and opportunities.”
The Jeffco STEM Advisory Committee was formed to engage a variety of partners to inform STEM learning in schools and to build on the existing STEM education efforts from the community. These include important investors like the Gill Foundation, to increase relevance, equity, and access to STEM learning and opportunities across the school district.
“The school district aspires to prepare students for bright futures right here in Jefferson County and beyond” said Angela Baber, executive director of Jeffco Schools Foundation. “STEM education and opportunity is a key component to ensure that every Jeffco student is prepared for the work environments that await them. We believe in building strong partnerships within our community to benefit students. Together, with our world class industries, community, and postsecondary institutions, we want to ensure that every Jeffco student is able to access STEM education and opportunities.”
Meet the Members!
Co-Chairs
Matt Flores, Co-Chair & Chief Academic Officer, Jeffco Public Schools
Matt has worked in Colorado public education for over twenty years. He started his career as a middle school educator. He served as a middle school teacher, assistant principal, and principal. Under Matt’s leadership, this school received the distinguished improvement award from the state of Colorado for increasing academic achievement. He then opened a New Technology High School in the same district. Within two years, this school became a national replication site for the New Tech Foundation, serving as a model New Technology High School.
Matt came to Jefferson County Public Schools in 2008 as principal of Weber Elementary. Soon after arriving at Weber, the school was featured by Adaptive Schools as a model for improving school culture. Matt was also featured in Learning Forward’s Journal of Staff Development in 2012 for this work. Since then, he has served as Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and now as our Chief Academic Officer. In this role, Matt oversees the work of Educational Research & Design. This department is responsible for all programs that support teaching and learning. His team ensures that resources, tools, and training are readily available for staff to promote the district’s strategic plan.
Matt has trained our district in improvement science methodology from the Carnegie Foundation. He has presented at national conferences and currently serves on the EdLeader21 national advisory board.
Matt has worked in Colorado public education for over twenty years. He started his career as a middle school educator. He served as a middle school teacher, assistant principal, and principal. Under Matt’s leadership, this school received the distinguished improvement award from the state of Colorado for increasing academic achievement. He then opened a New Technology High School in the same district. Within two years, this school became a national replication site for the New Tech Foundation, serving as a model New Technology High School.
Matt came to Jefferson County Public Schools in 2008 as principal of Weber Elementary. Soon after arriving at Weber, the school was featured by Adaptive Schools as a model for improving school culture. Matt was also featured in Learning Forward’s Journal of Staff Development in 2012 for this work. Since then, he has served as Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and now as our Chief Academic Officer. In this role, Matt oversees the work of Educational Research & Design. This department is responsible for all programs that support teaching and learning. His team ensures that resources, tools, and training are readily available for staff to promote the district’s strategic plan.
Matt has trained our district in improvement science methodology from the Carnegie Foundation. He has presented at national conferences and currently serves on the EdLeader21 national advisory board.
Leslie Larocque, Co-Chair & Vice President, Energy & Technical Services, McKinstry
Since joining McKinstry in 2006, Leslie has built our extensive Energy and Technical Services business in the Mountain Regions from the ground up. As Vice President for our Mountain Regions, her responsibilities include managing the strategic direction, market growth and delivery of McKinstry’s offerings in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada and Utah.
Leslie has been providing energy and environmental solutions to both public and private sector customers throughout the U.S. and internationally since 1991. At McKinstry, she’s led a dynamic team of professionals in the development and implementation of more than $250 million in strategies designed to create high-performing, energy-efficient and smart buildings.
Leslie is a passionate advocate of McKinstry’s philanthropic and community engagement initiatives. Under Leslie’s leadership, the McKinstry team regularly contributes time and resources to organizations that promote equality, advance education and ensure the health of our planet. She currently serves as the co-chair for Colorado STEM, a public-private partnership committed to advancing STEM education in Colorado.
Leslie earned her Bachelor of Arts in East Asian Studies from Middlebury College and her Master of Science in Environmental Policy and Management from the University of Denver. She serves as Vice President for McKinstry Essention, LLC and is based in our Golden, Colo. office.
Since joining McKinstry in 2006, Leslie has built our extensive Energy and Technical Services business in the Mountain Regions from the ground up. As Vice President for our Mountain Regions, her responsibilities include managing the strategic direction, market growth and delivery of McKinstry’s offerings in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada and Utah.
Leslie has been providing energy and environmental solutions to both public and private sector customers throughout the U.S. and internationally since 1991. At McKinstry, she’s led a dynamic team of professionals in the development and implementation of more than $250 million in strategies designed to create high-performing, energy-efficient and smart buildings.
Leslie is a passionate advocate of McKinstry’s philanthropic and community engagement initiatives. Under Leslie’s leadership, the McKinstry team regularly contributes time and resources to organizations that promote equality, advance education and ensure the health of our planet. She currently serves as the co-chair for Colorado STEM, a public-private partnership committed to advancing STEM education in Colorado.
Leslie earned her Bachelor of Arts in East Asian Studies from Middlebury College and her Master of Science in Environmental Policy and Management from the University of Denver. She serves as Vice President for McKinstry Essention, LLC and is based in our Golden, Colo. office.
Chamber of Commerce Partners
Kami Welch, President, Arvada Chamber of Commerce
Kami Welch is the President of the Arvada Chamber of Commerce. A 10-year Chamber veteran, Kami has earned a reputation for developing strategic, innovative opportunities for business and community growth. Kami is a U.S. Chamber of Commerce Talent Pipeline Fellow and a board member for the Western Association of Chamber Executives (WACE) and Association of Colorado Chambers of Commerce, where she is Chair. Kami also sits on community boards for non-profit organizations that focus on children, education, homelessness and domestic violence, including Family Tree, where she is the Chair.
Kami loves living in Colorado with her husband of 13 years and two young children, where they enjoy hiking, skiing and exploring.
Kami Welch is the President of the Arvada Chamber of Commerce. A 10-year Chamber veteran, Kami has earned a reputation for developing strategic, innovative opportunities for business and community growth. Kami is a U.S. Chamber of Commerce Talent Pipeline Fellow and a board member for the Western Association of Chamber Executives (WACE) and Association of Colorado Chambers of Commerce, where she is Chair. Kami also sits on community boards for non-profit organizations that focus on children, education, homelessness and domestic violence, including Family Tree, where she is the Chair.
Kami loves living in Colorado with her husband of 13 years and two young children, where they enjoy hiking, skiing and exploring.
Community Partners
Tami Bandimere, Executive Director, Bandimere Speedway
Tami Bandimere is a part of the third generation of owners and operators at Bandimere Speedway, her family’s drag racing facility located in the beautiful Colorado foothills. Tami is following in the footsteps of her grandfather and father as a part of the Executive Team of this unique business that has provided distinctive drag racing entertainment since its inception in 1958. Tami is also responsible for the speedway’s Community Relations and she is the Coordinator of the “Race to Read” program for elementary-age students. Tami welcomes the opportunity to educate others about the exciting world of drag racing entertainment while making important connections in local and national communities.
Tami’s grandparents., John Sr. and Frances Bandimere, founded the strip in 1958.
Tami Bandimere is a part of the third generation of owners and operators at Bandimere Speedway, her family’s drag racing facility located in the beautiful Colorado foothills. Tami is following in the footsteps of her grandfather and father as a part of the Executive Team of this unique business that has provided distinctive drag racing entertainment since its inception in 1958. Tami is also responsible for the speedway’s Community Relations and she is the Coordinator of the “Race to Read” program for elementary-age students. Tami welcomes the opportunity to educate others about the exciting world of drag racing entertainment while making important connections in local and national communities.
Tami’s grandparents., John Sr. and Frances Bandimere, founded the strip in 1958.
Brianna Titone, Representative, Colorado General Assembly
Brianna Titone is an American politician and scientist, currently serving as a member of the Colorado House of Representatives from the 27th district. She serves in the 73rd Colorado General Assembly and is the first openly transgender state legislator elected in Colorado and the 4th elected in the United States. She assumed office on January 4, 2019. Her current term ends on January 10, 2023.
Brianna earned a master's degree in information and communications technology from the University of Denver in 2018. Her career experience includes working as a web developer with Rockware Incorporated. A geologist by trade, Brianna has worked as an environmental consultant, mining consultant, and a web application developer. Her background allows her to bring a scientific lens to the legislature. Brianna also holds the following degrees: BA, Geology; BS, Physics; MS, Geosciences; MS, Software Design and Programming.
Brianna Titone is an American politician and scientist, currently serving as a member of the Colorado House of Representatives from the 27th district. She serves in the 73rd Colorado General Assembly and is the first openly transgender state legislator elected in Colorado and the 4th elected in the United States. She assumed office on January 4, 2019. Her current term ends on January 10, 2023.
Brianna earned a master's degree in information and communications technology from the University of Denver in 2018. Her career experience includes working as a web developer with Rockware Incorporated. A geologist by trade, Brianna has worked as an environmental consultant, mining consultant, and a web application developer. Her background allows her to bring a scientific lens to the legislature. Brianna also holds the following degrees: BA, Geology; BS, Physics; MS, Geosciences; MS, Software Design and Programming.
Scott Laband, President, Colorado Succeeds
Scott is the President of Colorado Succeeds, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that brings together leaders from business, education, and government to ensure all kids are educated to their greatest potential and all businesses have the homegrown talent they need to thrive. He is a social entrepreneur, passionate about creating educational experiences that are relevant, rigorous, and engaging for students. Prior to joining Colorado Succeeds in 2010, Scott worked at the state legislature for Senator Mike Johnston, and in the private sector in finance and marketing.
Scott is a founding board member of the Rocky Mountain Preparatory School, a free public charter school serving over 1,000 students in Denver and Aurora. He is the Chairman of the Policy Innovators in Education (PIE) Network, and a member of the Colorado Workforce Development Council’s Education & Training Committee, the Colorado Business Roundtable’s Inner Circle, and Denver Metro Chamber’s Education Committee. Scott lives in Lakewood with his wife and three children.
Scott is the President of Colorado Succeeds, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that brings together leaders from business, education, and government to ensure all kids are educated to their greatest potential and all businesses have the homegrown talent they need to thrive. He is a social entrepreneur, passionate about creating educational experiences that are relevant, rigorous, and engaging for students. Prior to joining Colorado Succeeds in 2010, Scott worked at the state legislature for Senator Mike Johnston, and in the private sector in finance and marketing.
Scott is a founding board member of the Rocky Mountain Preparatory School, a free public charter school serving over 1,000 students in Denver and Aurora. He is the Chairman of the Policy Innovators in Education (PIE) Network, and a member of the Colorado Workforce Development Council’s Education & Training Committee, the Colorado Business Roundtable’s Inner Circle, and Denver Metro Chamber’s Education Committee. Scott lives in Lakewood with his wife and three children.
Economic Development/Foundation/Government Partners
Jansen Tidmore, President & CEO, Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation
A Dothan, Alabama native, Jansen graduated from Auburn University with a Master of Public Administration. Starting his career in the private sector, he has a background in both construction, retail, hospitality, and local media. In 2011 he joined the Dothan Downtown Redevelopment Authority as the Executive Director. In 2017, Jansen took the helm of the newly formed Spartanburg Downtown Development Partnership. In December 2018, Jansen’s role was expanded as Executive Vice President of Corporate and Urban Development for the Economic Futures Group. He proudly joined the Jeffco EDC in May 2020, ushering in the 65th year for Colorado’s oldest economic development organization.
Jansen and his family are proud to call Jeffco home. He is married to Laura, a teacher, and has a rising 6th and 2nd grader. He currently serves on the Red Rocks Community College Advisory Board and the Rocky Mountain Metro Airport Advisory Board.
A Dothan, Alabama native, Jansen graduated from Auburn University with a Master of Public Administration. Starting his career in the private sector, he has a background in both construction, retail, hospitality, and local media. In 2011 he joined the Dothan Downtown Redevelopment Authority as the Executive Director. In 2017, Jansen took the helm of the newly formed Spartanburg Downtown Development Partnership. In December 2018, Jansen’s role was expanded as Executive Vice President of Corporate and Urban Development for the Economic Futures Group. He proudly joined the Jeffco EDC in May 2020, ushering in the 65th year for Colorado’s oldest economic development organization.
Jansen and his family are proud to call Jeffco home. He is married to Laura, a teacher, and has a rising 6th and 2nd grader. He currently serves on the Red Rocks Community College Advisory Board and the Rocky Mountain Metro Airport Advisory Board.
Denise Whinnen, Director - Colorado Programs, Gill Foundation
As director of Colorado programs, Denise manages a diverse set of portfolios that invest in Colorado to ensure everyone has the same opportunity to thrive. This dynamic scope of work includes LGBT advocacy and services; science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, which cultivates critical-thinking skills and prepares students for 21st century jobs; and, financial services that promote fair lending practices, access to safe capital, and consumer protections. Additionally, Denise works to provide a safe school environment for all Colorado kids through support for anti-bullying and cyber-bullying initiatives and suicide prevention programs.
Previously, Denise served as the business and government strategist for the Gay & Lesbian Fund for Colorado where she expanded the fund’s presence and strategic relationships throughout Colorado by working with business associations, chambers of commerce, local government, and civic groups. In 2007, Denise became the deputy director of the Gay & Lesbian Fund for Colorado and facilitated the development and launch of an innovative networking model that fostered full participation in democracy and civic life.
Prior to joining the foundation, Denise spent 30 years in the hospitality industry managing restaurants, training employees, developing marketing and advertising campaigns, and producing special events. As director of corporate affairs, Denise was responsible for the administrative, financial, and operational activities of 11 restaurants, 350 employees, and more than $12 million in annual revenues.
Denise has deep experience in the nonprofit sector, business, and political campaigns. Denise is a life-long Coloradan who enjoys mountain biking, kayaking, and coffin racing. She and her partner, John, have three children, seven grandchildren, and a pack of furry family members.
As director of Colorado programs, Denise manages a diverse set of portfolios that invest in Colorado to ensure everyone has the same opportunity to thrive. This dynamic scope of work includes LGBT advocacy and services; science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, which cultivates critical-thinking skills and prepares students for 21st century jobs; and, financial services that promote fair lending practices, access to safe capital, and consumer protections. Additionally, Denise works to provide a safe school environment for all Colorado kids through support for anti-bullying and cyber-bullying initiatives and suicide prevention programs.
Previously, Denise served as the business and government strategist for the Gay & Lesbian Fund for Colorado where she expanded the fund’s presence and strategic relationships throughout Colorado by working with business associations, chambers of commerce, local government, and civic groups. In 2007, Denise became the deputy director of the Gay & Lesbian Fund for Colorado and facilitated the development and launch of an innovative networking model that fostered full participation in democracy and civic life.
Prior to joining the foundation, Denise spent 30 years in the hospitality industry managing restaurants, training employees, developing marketing and advertising campaigns, and producing special events. As director of corporate affairs, Denise was responsible for the administrative, financial, and operational activities of 11 restaurants, 350 employees, and more than $12 million in annual revenues.
Denise has deep experience in the nonprofit sector, business, and political campaigns. Denise is a life-long Coloradan who enjoys mountain biking, kayaking, and coffin racing. She and her partner, John, have three children, seven grandchildren, and a pack of furry family members.
Kelly Mitchell, Consultant, Colorado Workforce Development Council
Kelly is a consultant for the Colorado Workforce Development Council Office with a focus on education, and serves as the statewide postsecondary and workforce readiness coordinator for Colorado. She serves in a shared position between the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment and the Colorado Department of Education.
Kelly works to bring together business and education to ensure Colorado students develop the skills they need to succeed in the workforce, and that businesses have access to the talent they need to drive our economy forward. For the past 10 years Kelly has been working in secondary education as a teacher, program coordinator, and Dean of Students. She holds a Bachelor's degree in statistics from Colorado State University and a Master's degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Denver.
Kelly is a consultant for the Colorado Workforce Development Council Office with a focus on education, and serves as the statewide postsecondary and workforce readiness coordinator for Colorado. She serves in a shared position between the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment and the Colorado Department of Education.
Kelly works to bring together business and education to ensure Colorado students develop the skills they need to succeed in the workforce, and that businesses have access to the talent they need to drive our economy forward. For the past 10 years Kelly has been working in secondary education as a teacher, program coordinator, and Dean of Students. She holds a Bachelor's degree in statistics from Colorado State University and a Master's degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Denver.
Industry Partners
Chris Crowley, Founder and Mechanical Engineer, Table Mountain Innovation, Inc.
Chris is Founder at SomnoHealth Incorporated - bringing sleep lab technologies directly to the consumer. His startup in Golden, Colorado. Previously, Chris was an R&D Project Manager and Senior Mechanical Engineer with 20 years of experience in medical devices, pulse oximetry, imaging, geophysics, consumer electronics, and other industries.
Chris has consulting experience includes Project Management, SolidWorks CAD services, 3D printing, vendor interaction, part sourcing, machining, fixture development, circuit boards, embedded software, and working models.
Chris is Founder at SomnoHealth Incorporated - bringing sleep lab technologies directly to the consumer. His startup in Golden, Colorado. Previously, Chris was an R&D Project Manager and Senior Mechanical Engineer with 20 years of experience in medical devices, pulse oximetry, imaging, geophysics, consumer electronics, and other industries.
Chris has consulting experience includes Project Management, SolidWorks CAD services, 3D printing, vendor interaction, part sourcing, machining, fixture development, circuit boards, embedded software, and working models.
Andy Davis, Director, Government Affairs, Comcast
Andy is a 24-year veteran of communications strategy, public affairs, and stakeholder engagement. As a Director of Government Affairs in Comcast’s Mountain West Region. Andy leads Comcast’s external affairs and economic development work with local public officials and business leaders in the western part of the Denver metro area, the communities along Highway 36 to Boulder, and Colorado’s mountain communities.
Combining a decade of communications experience on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., corporate public affairs experience both as a consultant and an in-house director, and an MBA, Andy brings to Comcast exceptional skill at building productive, results-oriented communication and relationships between private sector organizations and influential public stakeholders.
Andy is a 24-year veteran of communications strategy, public affairs, and stakeholder engagement. As a Director of Government Affairs in Comcast’s Mountain West Region. Andy leads Comcast’s external affairs and economic development work with local public officials and business leaders in the western part of the Denver metro area, the communities along Highway 36 to Boulder, and Colorado’s mountain communities.
Combining a decade of communications experience on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., corporate public affairs experience both as a consultant and an in-house director, and an MBA, Andy brings to Comcast exceptional skill at building productive, results-oriented communication and relationships between private sector organizations and influential public stakeholders.
Heather Doty, Project Engineer, Ball Aerospace & President, Society of Women Engineers
Heather is a project engineer at Ball Aerospace in Boulder, Colorado. She works in the manufacturing and test operations organization on people integration, career development, staffing and hiring, and new business ventures. In her previous role as engineering integration manager, Heather supported strategic initiatives and coordination across the organization. Prior to that, she spent more than 15 years in structural engineering at the company, performing finite element analysis and supporting environmental testing for a variety of space hardware programs — from the optical system on NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope to focal plane arrays for weather and earth-imaging payloads.
Heather is currently serving as the President of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) from July 1, 2020 until June 30, 2021. With more than 42,000 members around the globe, SWE empowers women to achieve full potential in careers as engineers and leaders, expands the image of the engineering and technology professions as a driving force in improving the quality of life, and demonstrates the value of diversity and inclusion. A senior life member of SWE, Heather brings a long history of leadership experience at multiple levels of the organization. She previously served on the board of directors as treasurer and director of regions, as well as held every officer position in her local Rocky Mountain Section. Doty was recognized with the 2007 SWE Distinguished New Engineer Award and the 2008 Outstanding SWE Counselor Award.
A Colorado native with a thirst for knowledge, Heather holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in civil engineering, a Bachelor of Arts in music and a Master of Business Administration, all from the University of Colorado Boulder.
Heather is a project engineer at Ball Aerospace in Boulder, Colorado. She works in the manufacturing and test operations organization on people integration, career development, staffing and hiring, and new business ventures. In her previous role as engineering integration manager, Heather supported strategic initiatives and coordination across the organization. Prior to that, she spent more than 15 years in structural engineering at the company, performing finite element analysis and supporting environmental testing for a variety of space hardware programs — from the optical system on NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope to focal plane arrays for weather and earth-imaging payloads.
Heather is currently serving as the President of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) from July 1, 2020 until June 30, 2021. With more than 42,000 members around the globe, SWE empowers women to achieve full potential in careers as engineers and leaders, expands the image of the engineering and technology professions as a driving force in improving the quality of life, and demonstrates the value of diversity and inclusion. A senior life member of SWE, Heather brings a long history of leadership experience at multiple levels of the organization. She previously served on the board of directors as treasurer and director of regions, as well as held every officer position in her local Rocky Mountain Section. Doty was recognized with the 2007 SWE Distinguished New Engineer Award and the 2008 Outstanding SWE Counselor Award.
A Colorado native with a thirst for knowledge, Heather holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in civil engineering, a Bachelor of Arts in music and a Master of Business Administration, all from the University of Colorado Boulder.
Stefan Elsener, Project Manager, Syncroness
Stefan is a Sr. Project Manager with Syncroness, a Jeffco product development company based out of Westminster, CO. He has 10 years of experience working on complex, multidisciplinary product development efforts in the Aerospace, Unmanned Systems and Robotics, and Medical Device markets. He believes that a collaborative relationship between product stakeholders and product development teams is key to project success.
Stefan has managed programs across the full product development life cycle from requirements and concept development to prototyping to production verification testing. He hopes to provide perspective on this collaborative systems design thinking as part of the Jeffco STEM Advisory Committee, to support the next generation of engineers. Stefan grew up in the Jeffco School District as a graduate of Pomona High School, and has served on the Warren Tech High School STEM advisory committee since 2012. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado.
Stefan is a Sr. Project Manager with Syncroness, a Jeffco product development company based out of Westminster, CO. He has 10 years of experience working on complex, multidisciplinary product development efforts in the Aerospace, Unmanned Systems and Robotics, and Medical Device markets. He believes that a collaborative relationship between product stakeholders and product development teams is key to project success.
Stefan has managed programs across the full product development life cycle from requirements and concept development to prototyping to production verification testing. He hopes to provide perspective on this collaborative systems design thinking as part of the Jeffco STEM Advisory Committee, to support the next generation of engineers. Stefan grew up in the Jeffco School District as a graduate of Pomona High School, and has served on the Warren Tech High School STEM advisory committee since 2012. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado.
Claudia Formiga, Director, Global Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility, Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies
Claudia is the Director of Global Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility of Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies, a mission-driven medical technology company that is focused on unlocking the potential of blood and cell-based therapies. The innovative company headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado strives to advance healthcare, broaden treatment options and improve patient outcomes through its technologies within the sectors of blood banking, transfusion medicine and regenerative medicine.
Claudia holds a Marketing degree and a post-graduate degree in Communications from ESPM University in Brazil and a recent Marketing certificate from Cornell University. A native of São Paulo, Brazil, Claudia and her husband moved to Colorado in August 2016. She is fluent in English and Spanish, and a Native speaker of Portuguese.
Claudia is the Director of Global Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility of Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies, a mission-driven medical technology company that is focused on unlocking the potential of blood and cell-based therapies. The innovative company headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado strives to advance healthcare, broaden treatment options and improve patient outcomes through its technologies within the sectors of blood banking, transfusion medicine and regenerative medicine.
Claudia holds a Marketing degree and a post-graduate degree in Communications from ESPM University in Brazil and a recent Marketing certificate from Cornell University. A native of São Paulo, Brazil, Claudia and her husband moved to Colorado in August 2016. She is fluent in English and Spanish, and a Native speaker of Portuguese.
John Heyliger, Vice President Workforce Development, Lockheed Martin
John is the Director of Workforce Programs, Strategy & Analytics for Lockheed Martin Space. He leads a team of professionals that oversees strategic workforce planning, new ways of working, talent analytics, STEM pipeline programs and digital workforce transformation value streams. Prior to his current role, John led Talent Acquisition function at Lockheed Martin that scaled to a 95-person team to support 3,000+ external hires focused on college, intern and experienced professional recruiting, as well as global mobility and employment branding.
Prior to joining Lockheed Martin, John spent more than 20 years in talent acquisition and talent management roles in technology, industrial and services industries. He’s held US-based and global positions at IBM, ServiceSource, Level 3 Communications and Sun Microsystems.
John is the Director of Workforce Programs, Strategy & Analytics for Lockheed Martin Space. He leads a team of professionals that oversees strategic workforce planning, new ways of working, talent analytics, STEM pipeline programs and digital workforce transformation value streams. Prior to his current role, John led Talent Acquisition function at Lockheed Martin that scaled to a 95-person team to support 3,000+ external hires focused on college, intern and experienced professional recruiting, as well as global mobility and employment branding.
Prior to joining Lockheed Martin, John spent more than 20 years in talent acquisition and talent management roles in technology, industrial and services industries. He’s held US-based and global positions at IBM, ServiceSource, Level 3 Communications and Sun Microsystems.
Samantha Preston, Mechanical Design Engineer, Medtronic
Samantha “Sammi” is a Mechanical Design Engineer in R&D with the Neurosurgery Group in Louisville. The Neuro business owns Medtronic's cranial and spine surgical Navigation and robotics platforms. Sammi has 5 years of experience in medical device design and throughout her time at Medtronic she has worked on surgical robotics, microscopes, ENT devices, laser ablation therapies, and anatomical 3D printing. She is also very involved with Medtronic Women's Network and Medtronic's Young Professionals, focusing on community outreach and networking.
Samantha “Sammi” is a Mechanical Design Engineer in R&D with the Neurosurgery Group in Louisville. The Neuro business owns Medtronic's cranial and spine surgical Navigation and robotics platforms. Sammi has 5 years of experience in medical device design and throughout her time at Medtronic she has worked on surgical robotics, microscopes, ENT devices, laser ablation therapies, and anatomical 3D printing. She is also very involved with Medtronic Women's Network and Medtronic's Young Professionals, focusing on community outreach and networking.
Rebecca Waldo, Project Manager, U.S. Engineering Construction
Rebecca is a Project Manager for U.S. Engineering Construction, a full-service mechanical contractor. She has 12 years of experience managing large, complex construction projects and guiding teams through challenging and innovative construction projects. Rebecca has a passion for STEM education and ensuring that all students have access to STEM careers.
Previously, Rebecca worked for a large General Contractor in the Denver Metro area and she spent 4 years working for the State of Colorado on Workforce Development and STEM Education initiatives including Colorado STEM. Rebecca has a B.S degree in Construction Science and Management from Kansas State University.
Rebecca is a Project Manager for U.S. Engineering Construction, a full-service mechanical contractor. She has 12 years of experience managing large, complex construction projects and guiding teams through challenging and innovative construction projects. Rebecca has a passion for STEM education and ensuring that all students have access to STEM careers.
Previously, Rebecca worked for a large General Contractor in the Denver Metro area and she spent 4 years working for the State of Colorado on Workforce Development and STEM Education initiatives including Colorado STEM. Rebecca has a B.S degree in Construction Science and Management from Kansas State University.
K-12 Education Partners
Jon Cihlar, Computer Science and STEM Facilitator, Arvada High School
Jon has been a Computer Science and STEM facilitator at Arvada HS since 2019 where he strives to share his passion for technology and language with his learners. He firmly believes that all learners deserve equitable access to STEM and Computer Science, and his driving goal is that his learners can envision themselves pursuing careers in the field.
Jon came to high school education in 2014 after having worked in a variety of software development and operations management roles.
John holds a Master’s degree in Computational Linguistics from the University of Chicago and Bachelor’s degrees in Spanish-Portuguese and Scientific and Technical Communication from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities.
Jon has been a Computer Science and STEM facilitator at Arvada HS since 2019 where he strives to share his passion for technology and language with his learners. He firmly believes that all learners deserve equitable access to STEM and Computer Science, and his driving goal is that his learners can envision themselves pursuing careers in the field.
Jon came to high school education in 2014 after having worked in a variety of software development and operations management roles.
John holds a Master’s degree in Computational Linguistics from the University of Chicago and Bachelor’s degrees in Spanish-Portuguese and Scientific and Technical Communication from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities.
Chenoa Crowshoe-Patterson, Equity and Diversity Specialist, Indian Education Team Lead, Jeffco Public Schools
Chenoa was born on the Piikani (Blackfeet) Nation of Alberta, Canada. Her father grew up in Browning, MT and is Southern Blackfoot from Montana and Karuk from California. Her mother grew up in Brocket, Alberta and is Piikani Blackfeet. Chenoa is the oldest of two sisters and two brothers.
Chenoa moved to Denver in 2012 to complete her master’s degree in social work with an emphasis on historical trauma at University of Denver. Her motto is Culture is Prevention.
Chenoa was born on the Piikani (Blackfeet) Nation of Alberta, Canada. Her father grew up in Browning, MT and is Southern Blackfoot from Montana and Karuk from California. Her mother grew up in Brocket, Alberta and is Piikani Blackfeet. Chenoa is the oldest of two sisters and two brothers.
Chenoa moved to Denver in 2012 to complete her master’s degree in social work with an emphasis on historical trauma at University of Denver. Her motto is Culture is Prevention.
Michelle Fisher, Teacher, Green Mountain High School
Michelle is the product of Jeffco Public Schools, graduating from Evergreen High School in 2000. She earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering from University of Colorado, Boulder and an MS in Biomedical Engineering from University of California, Davis. After seven years working for various public institutions as a Research Engineer, she made the career change into teaching STEM to high school students. She has taught Physics, Honors Integrated Science, AP Computer Science Principles, and concurrent enrollment Engineering and Robotics courses at Green Mountain High School.
Michelle’s teaching philosophy revolves around developing highly engaging, career-oriented and collaborative, project-based learning experiences for her students. Her engineering background, skill-set, and teaching philosophy made her an integral part in developing and implementing the STEM Endorsed Diploma and STEM Capstone for Jeffco Public Schools. She is thrilled to be a part of this advisory panel to improve the future of STEM education!
Michelle is the product of Jeffco Public Schools, graduating from Evergreen High School in 2000. She earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering from University of Colorado, Boulder and an MS in Biomedical Engineering from University of California, Davis. After seven years working for various public institutions as a Research Engineer, she made the career change into teaching STEM to high school students. She has taught Physics, Honors Integrated Science, AP Computer Science Principles, and concurrent enrollment Engineering and Robotics courses at Green Mountain High School.
Michelle’s teaching philosophy revolves around developing highly engaging, career-oriented and collaborative, project-based learning experiences for her students. Her engineering background, skill-set, and teaching philosophy made her an integral part in developing and implementing the STEM Endorsed Diploma and STEM Capstone for Jeffco Public Schools. She is thrilled to be a part of this advisory panel to improve the future of STEM education!
Sohne Van Selus, Principal, North Arvada Middle School
Sohne is in her 24th year in education. Because she came to her career in education from the business world, Ms. Van Selus earned her teaching license through the alternative teacher pathway. Her work in education began as a technology consultant where she helped teachers integrate technology to meet their content standards. The School-to-Career movement influenced a great deal of her early teaching where she integrated real-life experiences teaching and measuring transferable skills. In her 18 years of school administration, Sohne has served as a high school assistant principal, K-12 principal and middle school principal.
Sohne’s background in art and technology prepared her well to design and launch a K-12 online school in Douglas County, eDCSD. Sohne is currently serving her 6th year as the principal at North Arvada Middle School where she continues to lead a vision for a culture of deeper learning, partnering with New Tech Network.
Sohne is in her 24th year in education. Because she came to her career in education from the business world, Ms. Van Selus earned her teaching license through the alternative teacher pathway. Her work in education began as a technology consultant where she helped teachers integrate technology to meet their content standards. The School-to-Career movement influenced a great deal of her early teaching where she integrated real-life experiences teaching and measuring transferable skills. In her 18 years of school administration, Sohne has served as a high school assistant principal, K-12 principal and middle school principal.
Sohne’s background in art and technology prepared her well to design and launch a K-12 online school in Douglas County, eDCSD. Sohne is currently serving her 6th year as the principal at North Arvada Middle School where she continues to lead a vision for a culture of deeper learning, partnering with New Tech Network.
David Weiss, Community Superintendent, Jeffco Public Schools
David has worked in public education for 20 years. Prior to joining the School Leadership Team, he served as the principal of Westgate Elementary school for five years, and as a high school assistant principal for 4 years before that. David also taught middle school math and science for 8 years. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Youngstown State University and also holds a Masters of Business Administration and a Specialist License in School Leadership from the University of Denver. David is a learner who is passionate about equity, innovation and opportunity for all students. For 2020-21, David oversees the schools in the Alameda and Jefferson articulation areas.
David has worked in public education for 20 years. Prior to joining the School Leadership Team, he served as the principal of Westgate Elementary school for five years, and as a high school assistant principal for 4 years before that. David also taught middle school math and science for 8 years. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Youngstown State University and also holds a Masters of Business Administration and a Specialist License in School Leadership from the University of Denver. David is a learner who is passionate about equity, innovation and opportunity for all students. For 2020-21, David oversees the schools in the Alameda and Jefferson articulation areas.
Postsecondary Education Partners
Louisa Duley, Associate Director of Admissions, Colorado School of Mines
Louisa has worked at Mines for over 20 years, primarily responsible for recruiting Jeffco students interested in STEM. Additionally, Louisa directs SUMMET (Summer Multicultural Engineering Training) - a science and engineering program designed for rising juniors and seniors from underrepresented populations in Colorado and Oklahoma.
Louisa and her family have lived in the Jeffco School District for the past 30 years. Louisa has a daughter who attended Jeffco schools in the special needs program since Kindergarten and loves supporting Jeffco students and their families.
Louisa has worked at Mines for over 20 years, primarily responsible for recruiting Jeffco students interested in STEM. Additionally, Louisa directs SUMMET (Summer Multicultural Engineering Training) - a science and engineering program designed for rising juniors and seniors from underrepresented populations in Colorado and Oklahoma.
Louisa and her family have lived in the Jeffco School District for the past 30 years. Louisa has a daughter who attended Jeffco schools in the special needs program since Kindergarten and loves supporting Jeffco students and their families.
Michele Haney, President, Red Rocks Community College
Michele assumed duties as the ninth President of Red Rocks Community College in January 2008. Prior to becoming president of RRCC, Michele had been President of Morgan Community College since 2003. From 1992-2003 she was at Front Range Community College where she served as vice president for instruction and student services, and chief academic officer.
Michele holds a Ph.D. in counseling from the University of Wyoming, a master’s from Chapman College, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of New Mexico.
Michele is co-author of three books, the most current of which, The Stress Owner’s Manual, has been published in English, German, Japanese, Finnish, Chinese, Polish, and Arabic.
Michele assumed duties as the ninth President of Red Rocks Community College in January 2008. Prior to becoming president of RRCC, Michele had been President of Morgan Community College since 2003. From 1992-2003 she was at Front Range Community College where she served as vice president for instruction and student services, and chief academic officer.
Michele holds a Ph.D. in counseling from the University of Wyoming, a master’s from Chapman College, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of New Mexico.
Michele is co-author of three books, the most current of which, The Stress Owner’s Manual, has been published in English, German, Japanese, Finnish, Chinese, Polish, and Arabic.
Support Partners (Staff)
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Marna Messer
Director, Choice Programs Curriculum and Instruction Jeffco Public Schools [email protected] |
Heather Waldron
STEM Pathway Designer, Curriculum and Instruction Jeffco Public Schools [email protected] |
