Abby Minnich
Science Communication and Planetary Science
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About
I am very passionate about communicating harder concepts (like science) into a way people can understand them. I attended Pennsylvania State University, and have 2 bachelors degrees in both Film/Communication and Planetary Science/Astronomy.
I have won multiple awards for my editing ability, and storytelling, and have 10+ years of experience in film and broadcast. I am very well-trained in Adobe Premiere, After Effects, Photoshop, and Blender.
Experience
QUUB, Aerospace Company, Lancaster PA — Astrophysicist and Science Communicator
JULY 2024 - JANUARY 2025
- Created engaging science communication content that garnered thousands of views on social media, as well as produced, edited, and managed high-quality educational videos and posts.
- Assisted in promoting the company’s mission and projects through creative storytelling.
- Simplified and explained complex orbital mechanics and math concepts for a general audience.
- Collaborated closely with engineers to translate technical work into accessible material.
- Assessed mathematical equations for orbital mechanics to launch satellites to stay in orbit, as well as other planetary launches.
NASA HPF and NEID— Science Communicator
FEBRUARY 2024 - Present
- Simplified complex topics such as exoplanet detection and stellarspectroscopy for public outreach.
- Created educational content showcasing the mission and goals of the Habitable Zone Planet Finder (HPF).
- Produced videos and visual aids to highlight breakthroughs in precision astronomy and instrumentation.
- Collaborated with scientists and engineers to ensure accurate representation of technical concepts.
- Promoted NASA/HPF and NEID projects through engaging storytelling and accessible science communication.
Snapology, Lancaster PA - Operations Lead
2017 - Present
- Designed and taught STEM/STEAM curricula ranging from engineering, video game coding, architecture, physics, and more.
- Managed inventory, ensuring materials were organized and available for programs.
- Oversaw operations, sales, and social media content to boost engagement and program success.
- Built relationships with parents through clear communication and updates, fostering trust.
- Partnered with local businesses to organize events and strengthen community connections.
- Required a lot of patience and management skills. It also required organization, leadership, and the knowledge to teach the subjects.
PSNTV, “Asking Penn State” — Director and Executive Producer
AUGUST 2021 - 2024
- Led a team of 50 professionals to produce educational science videos centered on the Penn State campus, showcasing our commitment to academic excellence and innovation.
- Led team meetings, managed video editing and production, and mentored students in production techniques.
- Have extensive experience in event coordination, studio interviews with three-point lighting, capturing cinematic B-roll footage, and editing advanced graphics using Blender and After Eects.
Penn State University, College of Communications — Equipment Room Rental Staff
AUGUST 2021 - MAY 2024
- Serviced media students of multiple majors to get all of the equipment they need for projects, trouble-spotting equipment, and checkouts.
- Familiarity with multiple types of camera, sound, and lights
- Created flats for sets and spent extensive time barcoding all equipment for checkouts.
- Certified in operating scissor lifts and adept at assembling and positioning sky panels, facilitating smooth operations for student projects and productions.
- Trained many students about equipment, editing, and lighting.
Education
EDUCATION
Pennsylvania State University , Graduation May 5, 2024 ; Dual Bachelor Degree in communications/film and planetary sciences/astronomy.
Cumulative GPA: 3.88 ; In Good Standing 1 ; Consecutive Dean’s List Acceptee
