Program CoordinatorAug 2018 - Feb 2025
Dept of Defense Starbase Indiana - Gary, IN
- Led professional development workshops for educators and staff, enhancing instructional effectiveness and engagement across the program.
- Designed and developed comprehensive training materials, ensuring consistency in delivery using Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and Google Suite.
- Collaborated with SMEs to analyze training needs, develop content, and implement materials into the LMS, tracking learner progress and providing regular reports to stakeholders.
- Established and nurtured partnerships with businesses, schools, and community organizations, expanding the program’s reach and impact, including adding 10 new partnerships in 2024.
- Managed a mentorship program with 70 mentors, providing 700+ hours of support to foster youth development and career exploration in STEM fields.
- Extensive experience in grant writing since 2016 and serving as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in education, educational content, and compliance (local, state, and national) for DOD youth initiative programs, providing consulting services since 2024.
Instructor/Training SpecialistApr 2018 - Feb 2025
DOD Starbase Indiana - Gary, IN
- Developed and delivered engaging, innovative instructional materials for over 2,000 learners per year, incorporating robotics, coding, 3D CAD, rocketry, and STEM/STEAM subjects to enhance engagement and learning.
- Designed 15-20 custom STEM/STEAM curricula, achieving an 85% increase in engagement and retention through project-based learning and data-driven evaluations.
- Spearheaded the integration of various teaching methodologies, including lectures, group discussions, and hands-on activities, to support diverse learning styles in synchronous and asynchronous settings.
- Promoted to Program Coordinator within four months, expanding responsibilities while continuing to deliver impactful training content.
- Created and developed the CSI and Robot Rescue curricula, which received recognition at the US Congress and Pentagon for their innovation and educational value.
Test Scorer (Seasonal/Temp Role)Mar 2024 – May 2024 & Mar 2024 – May 2025
BC Forward – Remote
- Evaluated student responses to Indiana ILEARN standardized test questions based on provided rubrics.
Instructor/TrainingNov 2015 - Apr 2018
East Chicago Lighthouse Charter School – East Chicago, IL
- Collaborated with leadership and staff to align K-4 reading and math curricula across 9 classes, impacting 250 students and 14 staff members.
- Led curriculum development, mapping, and assessment to ensure instruction met learning objectives, focusing on continuous improvement through data-driven insights.
- Secured a grant to implement 1:1 technology in Kindergarten, providing 80 iPads and charging carts to enhance digital learning and student engagement.
- Administered student assessments (ILearn and NWEA) for 100+ students annually, tracking progress and tailoring instruction accordingly.
- Achieved "Reading Extraordinaire" recognition for driving 210% growth in reading skills, advancing students by two grade levels.
Program DirectorJun 2015 - Nov 2015
Dungarvin – Portage, IN
- Managed day-to-day operations of multiple group homes, overseeing the care of 15-20 adults with special needs and supervising 40+ staff members, ensuring compliance with Medicaid Home and Community-Based Waiver requirements.
- Led conflict resolution and staff support efforts, addressing concerns to maintain a safe and harmonious environment for both residents and staff.
- Developed and implemented individualized care plans, improving resident well-being and enhancing service delivery.
- Trained and certified staff in CPR and new policies, streamlining operations and boosting team efficiency and preparedness.
- Supervised recruitment, hiring, and payroll processes, ensuring accurate records and effective staff onboarding while collaborating with leadership on staffing decisions.
