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Friday, November 6
 

TBA

Aerospace Education Membership in Civil Air Patrol
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Join as an Aerospace Education Member (AEM) of Civil Air Patrol (CAP) and enjoy many free aerospace/STEM educational opportunities ranging from a variety of K-12 curriculum materials and STEM Kits to participating in a teacher orientation flight aboard one of our Cessna aircraft at your local airport. This unique membership category is designed for formal or informal educators involved in...
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Presenters
avatar for James McLaughlin

James McLaughlin

Deputy Wing Commander, Civil Air Patrol Iowa Wing
Lt Col James McLaughlin has been a member of Civil Air Patrol since 2002. and is the Iowa Wing Deputy Commander. He became the Director of Emergency Services for Iowa Wing in May 2023 and is the Director of the Iowa Emergency Services Academy Ground Schools. In June of 2024 Lt Col... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

AI Tools for the Science Classroom
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
AI is rapidly changing education, but how can it actually be used effectively in a science classroom? This session will explore practical ways I have integrated AI into my chemistry and physics courses, both as a tool for students and as a resource for teachers. I will share approaches that have been successful, along with others that have not worked as well as I had hoped. Attendees will leave...
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Presenters
avatar for Marc Pedersen

Marc Pedersen

HS Science Teacher, Des Moines Christian School
Marc Pedersen currently teaches the dual credit courses General Chemistry I & II and General Physics I at Des Moines Christian School. Now in his 29th year as an educator, Marc has spent his career helping students develop the problem-solving and critical-thinking skills necessary... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Biomanufacturing: A Viable but Unknown STEM Option for Iowa Students
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
We sought to better understand high school and college students’ choice of career and persistence in STEM fields and to share that knowledge so that it can be applied to reduce potential barriers to employment in biomanufacturing. This work was conducted as part of a larger project that seeks to build and integrate research capacity in biosciences and advanced manufacturing, two key areas...
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Presenters
avatar for Nick Bowman

Nick Bowman

Professor of Higher Education and Student Affairs, University of Iowa
Nicholas A. Bowman is the Mary Louise Petersen Chair in Higher Education, professor of Higher Education and Student Affairs, senior research fellow in the Public Policy Center, and director of the Center for Research on Undergraduate Education at the University of Iowa. Dr. Bowman’s... Read More →
avatar for Kyle Endres

Kyle Endres

Director of the Center for Social and Behavioral Research, University of Northern Iowa
Kyle Endres is Director of the Center for Social and Behavioral Research (CSBR) and an Associate Professor in the school of Public Affairs and Service at the University of Northern Iowa. He has considerable experience in survey design and implementation, including in the context of... Read More →
avatar for Hee Kyoung Jung

Hee Kyoung Jung

PhD Candidate in Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA), University of Iowa
Hee Kyoung Jung is a doctoral student at the University of Iowa in the department of Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA). She is a HESA program graduate assistant and graduate research assistant within the Center for Research on Undergraduate Education (CRUE) program.  
avatar for Hillary Wehe

Hillary Wehe

Senior Research Scientist, University of Northern Iowa
Hillary Wehe is a Senior Research Scientist at the Center for Social and Behavioral Research at the University of Northern Iowa. Her work at CSBR focuses on quantitative and qualitative research methodology and analysis for a variety of projects in the areas of STEM education, public... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Bold Ideas, Real Data, Real Community
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
When students investigate a real 129-acre Mississippi River island donated to their community,  alongside scientists, historians, conservation officers, and engineers, they become data scientists, inventors, and civic problem-solvers. In this session, student co-presenters share findings from the Towhead Island Civic Data Science Project, recognized by the Iowa Department of Education, while...
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Presenters
avatar for Pamela Joslyn

Pamela Joslyn

STEM Educator, Muscatine Community School District
Pamela Joslyn is a Technical Innovation teacher at Susan Clark Junior High School in Muscatine, Iowa, with 33 years of experience designing authentic, community-connected STEM learning. A 2026 Iowa STEM Teacher Award recipient, Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow, DoD STEM... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Building Iowa's Future STEM Workforce: Connecting Students to Biotechnology Careers Through Workplace Experiences
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
How can industry partners move beyond sponsorship and create meaningful pathways for students to explore STEM careers? This session highlights the Biotechnology Workplace Experience program, a collaborative initiative between IowaBio and the State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa that connects high-achieving student researchers with biotechnology companies across the state.Participants will...
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Presenters
avatar for Mary Lyon

Mary Lyon

STEM and Administrative Coordinator, Iowa Biotechnology Association
Prior to joining IowaBio, Mary worked as the Events and Strategic Alliances Manager with the Iowa Medical Society (IMS). In addition to taking the lead on organizing board meetings and events, Mary also served as the Chapter Executive for three specialty societies. In this role, she... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Building STEM Programs That Last: Lessons Learned from Creating Pathways, Inspiring Students, and Adapting Along the Way
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
My journey into STEM education began long before I became a Senior Principal Systems Engineer. Growing up, navigating college, and during my early years as an engineer, I often found myself trying to figure things out on my own. Access to mentors was limited, career pathways were not always clear, and many opportunities seemed hidden behind barriers that I didn't know how to overcome.As I...
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Presenters
avatar for Mandy Dodd

Mandy Dodd

Senior Principal Systems Engineer, Collins Aerospace
Mandy Dodd is a Senior Principal Systems Engineer and project engineering leader at Collins Aerospace, specializing in avionics systems, AFDX technologies, and certification across multiple global regulatory agencies. She brings more than 17 years of engineering and technical program... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Creating Community Connections with Adobe Podcast
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Learn to use Adobe Podcast to record and edit professional-quality interviews, even when guests aren't in the room, and Spotify for Creators to publish episodes, distribute them across major platforms, and track listener analytics. You'll see how my STEM Teacher Externship evolved into the Gather in Guttenberg podcast and now serves as the foundation for a STEM BEST student project. Walk away...
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Presenters
avatar for Nicole DeGidio

Nicole DeGidio

Teacher/Technology Coach, Clayton Ridge Community School District
Nicole DeGidio is the  6-12 Technology Coach, MS Computer Science teacher and HS English and Digital Media teacher at Clayton Ridge Community Schools. Passionate about empowering students through technology, Nicole creates authentic, real-world learning experiences that blend innovation... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Creating Opportunities for ALL Students to Become Leaders and Innovators
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
STEAM integration allows students to discover untapped talents and develop a culture of trust and confidence within the classroom community. Experts emerge, and innovation blossoms as students hone their critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. We will share our STEAM journey successes, struggles, and the undeniable benefits of integrating hands-on STEAM projects into your classroom. 




Presenters
avatar for Kim McCoy-Parker

Kim McCoy-Parker

5th Grade Teacher / STEAM Lab Coordinator, Four Mile Elementary / Southeast Polk Community School District
Dr. Kim McCoy-Parker is in her 11th year of teaching fifth grade at Four Mile Elementary in the Southeast Polk CSD.  She also serves as the STEAM lab coordinator and model teacher.  In 2022, Kim was awarded the PLTW Outstanding Teacher Award. She completed her doctoral degree in... Read More →
avatar for Kim Powell

Kim Powell

5th Grade Teacher / STEAM Action Committee Member, Four Mile Elementary / Southeast Polk Commuity Schools
Kim Powell is in her 27th year of teaching and her 23rd year of teaching fifth grade at Four Mile Elementary. Kim serves on the building STEAM Action team and has been instrumental in designing and implementing extremely popular building-wide Makers Challenges.
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Drone Designers: Where Technology, Innovation, and Creativity Take Flight
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Discover how the Drone Designers curriculum from PCS Edventures transformed a 6th-grade classroom into a hub of innovation, creativity, and career exploration. Do you think you need unlimited space, daily class periods, and ideal flying conditions to create a successful drone program? You don’t!  My students learned drone technology, aviation terminology, design thinking, career pathways,...
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Presenters
avatar for Susan Oehlertz

Susan Oehlertz

K-6 Computer Science Teacher, Pocahontas Area Community School
With more than 30 years of experience in education, I am a passionate elementary computer science educator dedicated to inspiring the next generation of innovators, creators, and problem-solvers. Throughout my career, I have developed engaging learning experiences that introduce students... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Enabling STEM learning through AI and 3D printing
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Many science ideas are hard for students to picture because they are too small to see. In this interactive session hosted by Prof. Ratul Chowdhury - as a part of his STEM Council's Seal of Approval awarded program AI4IA - he will demonstrate how AI, molecular simulations, and 3D-printed models can help students understand proteins. Proteins are tiny molecular blocks of living beings that help our...
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Presenters
avatar for Ratul Chowdhury

Ratul Chowdhury

Assistant Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University
I am an assistant professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Iowa State. My research group focuses on building machine learning strategies to accurately understand how metals interact with biological molecules. The lab is actively working on >20 metals through various cross-disciplinary... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Experiential Learning via Student Driven Projects
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
When a student has advanced beyond their peers, to the point that their educators cannot challenge them enough to continue their learning through traditional curricula, it is time to look at how industry / education partnerships can continue to nourish the interest and passion for learning.Steve Davis and Dalila Hernandez connected after her teacher met Mr. Davis and requested that he provide an...
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Presenters
avatar for Steven Davis

Steven Davis

CEO & Co-founder, Bio::Neos, Inc.
Steve is a successful co-founder of a technology business, Bio::Neos a firm of scientific technology architects, that he has operated with his partners for over 20 years. After founding Bio::Neos, Steve has invested significant time working with the local and state-wide business and... Read More →
avatar for Dalila Hernandez

Dalila Hernandez

Student, Drake University
Dalila has worked with Steve to enhance her education using experiential learning since 2023. 
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

From Curiosity to Career: Building Iowa's AI Workforce Pipeline
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Artificial intelligence is transforming careers across agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, business, and education. As demand for AI-related skills grows, educators play a critical role in preparing students for an increasingly technology-driven workforce.This session shares lessons learned from developing AI learning opportunities across multiple educational settings, including STEM camps,...
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Presenters
avatar for Becky Deitenbeck

Becky Deitenbeck

Faculty, AI and Computer Science, Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)
Becky Deitenbeck is an AI and Computer Science faculty member at Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), where she leads initiatives in artificial intelligence education. With more than eight years of industry experience, Becky transitioned into academia to pursue her passion for... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

From Struggle to Mastery: Understanding Neurodivergence in the Classroom
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Neurodivergence includes ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Specific Learning Disorders (SLDs) like dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia (Schoemaker, et al., 2012). Neurodivergent students are appropriately placed in grade-level general education classes; however, few general education teachers understand the signs and symptoms of neurodivergence or the best ways to support these students...
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Presenters
avatar for Dr. Honora Wall

Dr. Honora Wall

Executive Director, Dyscalculia Training & Research Institute
Dr. Honora Wall has worked as a teacher and private instructor for over 20 years. Her classroom teaching experience includes middle school math, high school math and science courses, and adult education. As a private instructor, she has taught everything from 3rd grade math to college... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Now Pioneers in Flying!
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Attendees will learn the process of building rockets, how to start and manage a rocket team and how to build connections with other rocket students! 
Presenters
avatar for Sophia Ramalli

Sophia Ramalli

Founder and President, Grinnell Rocket Team
The Grinnell Rocket Team is a student-founded team in Iowa that has had the amazing opportunity to launch high power rockets, including in the biggest rocket competition in the world (IREC)! 
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Project STEM Ready-VR: Increasing Students with Disabilities in STEM
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Students with disabilities often pursue STEM education but are less likely to complete degrees and stay in the field, facing barriers spanning attitudes, finances, and education (Hawley et al., 2014; Thurston et al., 2017). Project STEM Ready-VR, a federally funded, interdisciplinary 5-year initiative, expands capacity for youth with disabilities to enter the STEM workforce. This presentation...
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Presenters
avatar for Gerta Bardhoshi

Gerta Bardhoshi

Professor of School Counseling, University of Iowa

avatar for Kenneth G. Brown

Kenneth G. Brown

Department Executive Officer, Educational Policy & Leadership Studies; Tippie Children Professor of Management, University of Iowa
Kenneth G. Brown, Ph.D., is a scholar-practitioner with award-winning teaching and research backgrounds as well as extensive administrative experience across the University of Iowa and several Iowa-based non-profit organizations. As Associate Dean of the Tippie College of Business... Read More →
avatar for Minjoo Kang

Minjoo Kang

Doctoral Student, Grant Activities Coordinator, University of Iowa
Minjoo Kang, MEd is a doctoral student in the Counselor Education and Supervision program at the University of Iowa and brings extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and their families across school, hospital, and community settings. Her research focuses on strengthening... Read More →
avatar for Allison Levine

Allison Levine

Associate Professor of Counselor Education, University of Iowa
Dr. Allison Levine is an Associate Professor of Counselor Education and is the Program Coordinator of the nationally ranked Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling program at the University of Iowa. Dr. Levine is a counselor educator specializing in disability-informed counseling practices... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Still Human: How Educators Can Teach the Skills AI Will Never Replace
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
The rules of learning just changed. AI can now complete most traditional assignments in seconds — which means the way we design lessons, assess thinking, and measure student growth needs to shift too. This session helps PK-12 educators make that transition with confidence. You will leave with a practical framework for evaluating your current lessons and assignments through an AI-era lens,...
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Presenters
avatar for Kacy Webster, M.Ed.

Kacy Webster, M.Ed.

CEO/Founder & Certified AI Consultant, Profit Quiver
Kacy Webster, M.Ed. is the CEO and Founder of Profit Quiver and a Certified AI Consultant with 30+ years of experience in education, workforce development, and organizational transformation. She is the creator of the Human AI Readiness Framework and has facilitated AI readiness workshops... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Strengthening Rural Elementary Science Through Teacher Leadership: Early Results and Ways to Participate
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
The Midwest STEM Alliance for Rural Elementary Science is building a regional network of outstanding elementary science teacher leaders across Iowa, Kansas, and Minnesota. This session will share first-year outcomes, including the recruitment of 18 STEM Teacher Corps members, findings from a regional needs assessment, and lessons learned from launching a multi-state professional learning...
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Presenters
avatar for Dana Atwood-Blaine

Dana Atwood-Blaine

Associate Professor; Jacobson Elementary STEM Fellow; PI for the Midwest STEM Alliance for Rural Elementary Science, University of Northern Iowa
Dr. Dana Atwood-Blaine is the Jacobson Elementary STEM Fellow and an Associate Professor at the University of Northern Iowa specializing in elementary science and integrated STEM. Drawing on 15 years of PK–6 classroom experience, her work centers on teacher leadership and a multiple-literacies... Read More →
avatar for Kristina Tank

Kristina Tank

Associate Professor of Science Education, Iowa State University
Dr. Kristina Tank, an Associate Professor of Science Education at Iowa State University and former elementary teacher, specializes in K–5 STEM integration, elementary engineering design, and supporting educators through interdisciplinary professional development.  Dr. Tank is Co-PI on the Midwest ST... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Student Involvement: The Key to Student Engagement
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Student Involvement: The Key to Student Engagement will highlight how the agriculture program at Central Decatur Community School creates opportunities for students to become actively involved in their education. Participants will learn about hands-on experiences in animal science, plant science, aquaponics, beekeeping, and the program’s newest addition—aviation.The session will feature a...
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Presenters
avatar for Soiyer Smith

Soiyer Smith

Agriculture Student & Central Trail FFA Member, Central Decatur Community School
Soiyer Smith is a high school agriculture student at Central Decatur Community School and an active member of the Central Trail FFA with a passion for aviation. While balancing academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities, she is working toward earning her private pilot's... Read More →
avatar for Rosa Sondag

Rosa Sondag

Agriculture Instructor, Central Decatur Community School
Rosa Sondag is an agricultural educator and FFA advisor dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders through hands-on learning, leadership development, and community involvement. She is the agriculture instructor and FFA Advisor at Central Decatur Community School where... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

The Environment Won't Fix Itself: Why YOUth Leadership Matters
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Today, youth recognize many issues in their communities, but where do they begin? In this session, I will share how a simple observation about plastic waste in a research laboratory grew into EcoTips, a youth-led sustainability initiative, and EcoVision, a county-wide environmental event connecting hundreds of community members with local organizations. Attendees will learn strategies for...
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Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

The Natural Connections: Why Your Lessons are Already "Computational"
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
"I don't have time for one more thing." We hear you!The good news? You're likely already teaching computer science and computational thinking without realizing it.This low key session helps you "label the plate" rather than add to it.  Learn how we've found natural opportunities to showcase computer science and computational thinking within our pre-existing programming...
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Presenters
avatar for Patrick Snyder

Patrick Snyder

Elementary Curriculum Coordinator, Iowa City Community School District
Patrick Snyder serves as an Elementary Core Curriculum Coordinator for Iowa City Schools, supporting the development and growth of all learners. He is committed to enhancing learning experiences and achievement by emphasizing and modeling innovative ways to engage students. Patrick... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Youth Voices, Youth Choices: STEM Discovery Day with the Iowa STEM Youth Ambassadors
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
 The STEM Discovery Day, created by the Iowa STEM Youth Ambassadors, is about giving high school students a better understanding of the vast STEM Field Career possibilities in Iowa. The experience provided the opportunity to learn the day-to-day tasks, schedules, and career ladder of a specific STEM industry. Students were able to network with professionals and make meaningful connections,...
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Presenters
avatar for Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group

Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group

The Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Business Partnerships committee members, Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group
The Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group is comprised of Iowa youth from middle school to college age who have a passion or interest in science, technology, engineering or mathematics. 
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Accessible Learning in Action
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Services and Classroom Applications from the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled and the Instructional Materials Center This presentation will highlight innovative teaching and learning practices—such as phenomena‑based science approaches and accessible STEM content—that support diverse learners. It will showcase collaboration and partnerships that connect schools, agencies,...
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Presenters
avatar for Abby Brown

Abby Brown

5th grade teacher, Durant Community School District
Abby is a 5th grade teacher at Durant Elementary school entering her third year of teaching. She is passionate about project based learning, STEM education, and creating accessible learning experiences for all students. After completing a summer teacher externship at with the Iowa... Read More →
avatar for Leslie Heinzler

Leslie Heinzler

Special Services Librarian, Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
Leslie is the Special Services Librarian at the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled.  She has been a librarian for over 20 years, with over 10 years at the Iowa Library for the Blind.  She is passionate about accessibility and equal access to information.  She enjoys... Read More →
avatar for Leland Smith

Leland Smith

Service Specialist for the Instructional Materials Center, Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
Leland Smith brings both professional expertise and lived experience to the conversation on accessibility in education. As a blind individual who attended Iowa public schools, he offers a firsthand perspective on the importance of accessible educational materials and inclusive learning... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Willeford

Sarah Willeford

Library Director, Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
Sarah Willeford is the Library Director at the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled, where she leads statewide efforts to ensure reading and information are accessible to all Iowans. With more than 25 years of experience in libraries of all types—and over 12 years with... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Amplify, Don't Replace: Collaborating on AI Tools for Compassionate Care Workplaces
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Speakers will discuss Jon Dennis's Iowa STEM Teacher Externship with Friends of the Family, a nonprofit organization serving victims of homelessness and domestic violence across 25 Iowa counties. The team created AI tools for crisis hotline advocate training, social media content creation, and donor outreach campaigns. They are planning to expand the externship through a partnership with the...
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Presenters
avatar for Jon Dennis

Jon Dennis

CTE Information Solutions Teacher, Waterloo Career Center, Waterloo Schools
Jon Dennis has taught in Waterloo for 27 years and currently teaches AI, programming, game development, and cybersecurity at the Waterloo Career Center. In summer 2026, he completed an Iowa STEM Teacher Externship with Friends of the Family in Waterloo, gaining industry experience... Read More →
avatar for Madison Gaffney

Madison Gaffney

Volunteer Manager, Friends of the Family
Madison Gaffney is the Volunteer Manager at Friends of the Family in Waterloo. She is responsible for recruitment and oversight of internships and volunteers in this nonprofit organization serving people in crisis. They have utilized traditional college student interns in social work... Read More →
avatar for Rich Ross

Rich Ross

Communications & Events Manager, Friends of the Family
Rich Ross is the Communications and Events Manager at Friends of the Family in Waterloo. A storyteller at heart, he believes stories are the key to breaking down barriers and building meaningful connections. As a lifelong learner, Rich is passionate about using AI and emerging technologies... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Beyond the Barn: How Iowa 4-H is Building Iowa's STEM Talent Pipeline
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
What if you could grow your future workforce instead of competing to recruit it? Step into the role of a talent recruiter facing rising hiring, onboarding, and retention costs, then experience how Iowa 4-H STEM develops career-ready youth through robotics and automation. Working in teams, you'll tackle real-world engineering challenges, explore NACE career-ready skills, and discover how long-term...
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Presenters
avatar for Jonnie Becker

Jonnie Becker

Iowa 4-H STEM Focus Team Leader, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach: 4-H
Jonnie brings over 20 years of experience in STEM education, curriculum design, and statewide program leadership and currently the Iowa 4-H STEM Focus team leader. In this role, she leads the development of a statewide STEM vision aligned with Iowa State University Extension and national... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Breaking Barriers: Engaging Hard-to-Reach Students Through Real-World STEM
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Every educator faces the ultimate challenge: how do you captivate the student sitting in the back row with their arms crossed, convinced that school has nothing to do with their reality? The answer isn't lowering standards; it’s changing the approach.In this high-energy, practical session, discover how to transform standard high school science curriculum into immersive, real-world STEM...
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Presenters
avatar for Randi Glaser

Randi Glaser

Tier 3 Science Teacher, The ALT at Valley High School in West Des Moines
Randi has taught in alternative education for a number of years. With teaching science, she loves to incoporate STEM ideas to help engage students and connect real life examples to state standards. She has won the 2024 STEM Teacher award from the state of Iowa, and has incoporated... Read More →
avatar for Tanya Hunt

Tanya Hunt

STEM BEST® Program Coordinator, Iowa STEM Advisory Council
Tanya K. Hunt is an Education Program Consultant and STEM BEST® Program Coordinator with the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council at the Iowa Department of Education. She leads the coordination and advancement of the STEM BEST® Program, supporting authentic work-based learning... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Build It, Map It, Explain It: Hands-On NGSS Learning Across Grade Levels
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
 What happens when one grade level's science work becomes another grade level's problem to solve? In this hands-on session, participants will experience a cross-grade NGSS-aligned project in which elementary students design three-dimensional island models, use generative AI to visualize those models as realistic landscapes, and translate them into topographic maps. Participants will...
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Presenters
avatar for Maddie Kampf

Maddie Kampf

Elementary Science Teacher & Doctoral Student at Drake, Indianola Community School District & Drake University
Maddie Kampf is a K–5 science educator with Indianola Community School District and a doctoral student in Education at Drake University. She specializes in NGSS-aligned, inquiry-based science instruction that emphasizes student sensemaking, hands-on investigation, and meaningful... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Build Your Own AI with micro:bit CreateAI
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Machine learning can feel abstract, until students collect the data themselves. In this hands-on session, we'll start with an anchoring phenomenon before you experience the full micro:bit CreateAI workflow: collecting your own movement data, then creating, testing, and improving a machine learning model that triggers real actions in code on the micro:bit. You'll explore how data quality and bias...
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Presenters
avatar for Corey Rogers

Corey Rogers

Education Producer, Micro:bit Educational Foundation
Corey Rogers is an Education Producer with the Micro:bit Educational Foundation. With over 22 years of experience in education, She has worked as a middle school STEM and Computer Science teacher, Media Specialist, and Computer Science, Digital Learning, and School Improvement Consultant... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Cosmic Clutter: A Hands-on Workshop Connecting Classroom Science to Space
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Experience Blue Origin's Club for the Future free lessons through hands-on activities. Practice engaging students while exploring space careers. Leave with ready-to-use resources connecting classroom concepts to STEM opportunities beyond Earth!
Presenters
avatar for Blue Origin's Club for the Future

Blue Origin's Club for the Future

We focus on STEM career pathways for underrepresented students. All of our offerings are free and any organization working with students can utilize them.
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Cultivating STEM Connections: Lessons Learned as a First-Year Iowa STEM Teacher Externship Host
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
What happens when a university public garden becomes an Iowa STEM Teacher Externship host for the first time?In this interactive session, educators from Reiman Gardens at Iowa State University will share their journey as a first-year Iowa STEM Teacher Externship host site. Participants will learn how our organization partnered with two licensed STEM educators to create meaningful workplace...
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Presenters
avatar for Ann Gritzner

Ann Gritzner

Iowa STEM Teacher Externships Program Coordinator, Iowa STEM
avatar for Sara Merritt

Sara Merritt

Director of Education, Reiman Gardens - Iowa State University
Sara Merritt is an educator, trainer, and creative strategist specializing in experiential learning, arts integration, and science engagement. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with Individual Concentration in Art, Sexuality, and Aesthetic Perception, A Master of Fine Arts in Painting... Read More →
avatar for Molly Barten

Molly Barten

Manager of Youth & Family Programs, Reiman Gardens - Iowa State University
Molly Barten is an educator and program leader specializing in youth engagement, family learning, and nature-based education. As Manager of Youth & Family Programs at Reiman Gardens, she develops and leads innovative experiences that connect children and families with the natural... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Driving Question Board to Spark Thinking
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
The Driving Question Board, an essential tool used throughout OpenSciEd units to generate, keep track of, and revisit student questions around the anchoring and related phenomenon. It’s a visual representation of the shared mission of learning in the unit. Come think like a student and gather resources like a teacher.
Presenters
avatar for Andrew Whittet

Andrew Whittet

Regional Sales, Activate Learning
 Andrew Whittet is a former classroom teacher and district specialist who served public school districts in Texas and Florida before joining Activate Learning. He now partners with science teams across multiple states to support the successful implementation of high-quality, inquiry-based... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Engineering the Real World: Bringing Authentic Problem-Solving into K–12 Science Classrooms
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
How can science classrooms move beyond learning about concepts to using them in meaningful, real-world ways? This session explores how to engage K–12 students in authentic engineering challenges that align with science standards while promoting deep sensemaking. Participants will examine how real-world problems—rooted in local, global, and student-relevant contexts—can drive instruction,...
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Presenters
avatar for Christopher Like

Christopher Like

Science Program Consultant, Iowa Department of Education
With more than two decades in science education, Christopher Like has dedicated his career to expanding access to meaningful, high-quality science learning for all students. He began as a high school science teacher, continually refining his practice to center student thinking and... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Evidence-Based Mathematics Instruction in Iowa: Building the Foundation for STEM Success
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Mathematics is foundational to STEM learning, but not all mathematics instruction provides students with the same opportunities to reason, problem-solve, model and apply ideas. Iowa’s Comprehensive State Mathematics Plan offers a statewide definition of evidence-based mathematics instruction that emphasizes coherent, standards-aligned teaching: conceptual understanding; procedural fluency;...
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Presenters
avatar for Melissa Carlson

Melissa Carlson

Evidence-Based Practices and Dyscalculia Consultant, Iowa Department of Education
Melissa is a Mathematics Consultant with the Iowa Department of Education, where she focuses on supporting teachers and leaders in implementing and strengthening best practices across all tiers of instruction. She brings a diverse perspective from her experiences as a classroom teacher... Read More →
avatar for Christi Donald

Christi Donald

K-12 Mathematics Consultant, Iowa Department of Education
Christi is a K-12 Mathematics Consultant with the Iowa Department of Education, where she supports teachers and leaders in implementing evidence-based mathematics instruction through professional learning, standards implementation, and the use of high-quality instructional materials... Read More →
avatar for April Pforts

April Pforts

K-12 Mathematics Consultant, Iowa Department of Education
April Pforts is a Mathematics Consultant with the Iowa Department of Education who is passionate about helping educators strengthen mathematics teaching and learning. She works alongside teachers, instructional coaches, administrators, and district leaders to support high-quality... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Growing STEM in our Community
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Ankeny Centennial High School’s student-led Garden Club will show how they apply STEM to solve real-world challenges, from designing irrigation systems to growing 1,000 pounds of produce to donate to the local food pantry. Attendees will discover how students collaborate with STEM BEST® Grant recipient Orbis to build raised garden beds. Participants will engage in interactive demonstrations by...
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Presenters
avatar for Alice Baghdasaryan

Alice Baghdasaryan

Student Member, Ankeny Centennial Garden Club
Alice Baghdasaryan is a junior at Ankeny Centennial who is a member of the Gardening Club. She is passionate about Science Bowl and her team placed 3rd in the 2026 state competition. She intends to study cell biology in college and pursue a career in biotechnology.
avatar for Ella Campbell

Ella Campbell

Student Member, Ankeny Centennial Garden Club
My name is Ella Campbell and I am a senior at Ankeny Centennial. I spend my time running cross country, going to Gardening Club, spending time with friends, and working part time jobs. I really enjoy science and hope to one day find a job in STEM with environmental sciences.
avatar for Greta Lee

Greta Lee

Student Member, Ankeny Centennial Garden Club
Greta Lee is a senior at Ankeny Centennial. She has been a home gardener for 3 years before joining Garden Club. Greta is passionate about food insecurity and environmental education, having served as an intern for Mobilize Green in 2026, working on projects for the NFS and Iowa Wildlife... Read More →
avatar for Porter Schlaht

Porter Schlaht

Student Member, Ankeny Centennial Garden Club
Porter Schlaht is a junior at Ankeny Centennial High School and a member of the Garden Club. He enjoys houseplant care, propagation, horticulture, and sharing his knowledge with friends and family. Porter also enjoys volunteering with the Blank Park Zoo’s Zoo Crew and his local... Read More →
avatar for Tanya Hunt

Tanya Hunt

STEM BEST® Program Coordinator, Iowa STEM Advisory Council
Tanya K. Hunt is an Education Program Consultant and STEM BEST® Program Coordinator with the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council at the Iowa Department of Education. She leads the coordination and advancement of the STEM BEST® Program, supporting authentic work-based learning... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Horticulture, Rooted in STEM: Growing Food, Beautifying Spaces, Enriching Lives
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Join us to explore how horticulture connects STEM concepts to everyday life. Educators will discover the science of managing pests with beneficial insects (part of IPM), the technology and engineering of robotics and automation in modern growing facilities, and the mathematics used to calculate garden layouts and planting timelines. The session also highlights genetics, phenology,...
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Presenters
avatar for Christina Riessen

Christina Riessen

Horticulture Instructor, DMACC Horticulture
My name is Christina, and horticulture is my passion! I have more than 10 years of industry experience, including nursery production work at Bachman's and Bailey nurseries in Minnesota. Today, I am a horticulture instructor at the DMACC Ankeny campus, where I primarily teach horticulture... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Making Energy Learning Matter
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Energy is one of the most important concepts in science and society. Yet, students commonly struggle to develop deep understanding of energy that is useful outside of school science. This session introduces a novel approach to energy instruction, called the Energy Transfer Approach, that has been developed and tested in projects funded by the National Science Foundation and the Institute for...
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Presenters
avatar for Jeffrey Nordine

Jeffrey Nordine

Professor of Science Education, University of Iowa
Jeffrey Nordine, Ph.D., is a Professor of Science Education at the University of Iowa and a Visiting International Professor at the Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) in Kiel, Germany. A former physics teacher, school administrator, and Chief Scientist at... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Mission Moon: Building the Artemis Generation Through Public–Private Partnerships
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Mission Moon is a collaborative STEM initiative of the Iowa Space Grant Consortium, Iowa 4-H, and Collins Aerospace that connects youth with space exploration, engineering, and aerospace careers. This session highlights how university, youth development, and industry partners created a scalable Artemis-inspired experience for grades 4–8. Participants engage in hands-on activities including lunar...
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Presenters
avatar for Sara Nelson

Sara Nelson

Director, Iowa Space Grant Consortium/Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
Sara Nelson is Director of the Iowa Space Grant Consortium (ISGC) and an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering at Iowa State University. She also serves with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the School of Education, where she develops... Read More →
avatar for Taren Reker

Taren Reker

Senior Manager, Collins Aerospace
Taren has spent the past four years at Collins Aerospace leading the Ames, Iowa site as a strategic hub for talent development and innovation in partnership with Iowa State University (ISU). In this role, she supports a large community of student employees, strengthens university... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Using Unplugged Coding Activities to Support Preschoolers' Emergent Literacy
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Attendees will learn about how unplugged coding activities can be used to support preschoolers’ critical thinking, vocabulary development and communication skills. This session will involve hands-on practice in connecting literacy activities (i.e. interactive read aloud) with unplugged coding activities. People who come to our session will be able to apply some of the strategies discussed...
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Presenters
avatar for Katie Nedwick

Katie Nedwick

TEACH Studio Coordinator (Rod Library), University of Northern Iowa
Katie is the coordinator for Rod Library's TEACH Studio. The TEACH Studio opened in August 2025 and is a collaboration between the College of Education and Rod Library. It provides students on campus access to a robust children's literature collection and educational technology toys... Read More →
avatar for Oluwaseun Oti

Oluwaseun Oti

Professor, University of Northern Iowa
Oluwaseun Ayobami Oti is an assistant professor of Literacy Education at the University of Northern Iowa. Her research interests include early literacy instruction, pre-service, and in-service teacher training and culturally sustaining literacy practices.
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Networking Space
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Room 310
Looking to continue the conversation after a session or make new connections? The networking space will be open throughout the conference as a come-and-go space designed for casual conversation and meaningful connections with fellow attendees.
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Room 310 Iowa Events Center, Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center
  Drop-In

TBA

Poster Walk: STEM-Powered Youth of Iowa
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
New to the Iowa STEM Summit this year, a student poster walk will showcase the innovative research, projects and ideas of Iowa high school students. Students enrolled in an Iowa public or accredited non-public high school are invited to create a poster or tri-fold display that shares a STEM research topic or STEM-based project. The student poster walk is designed to give students an...
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Presenters
avatar for Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group

Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group

The Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Business Partnerships committee members, Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group
The Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group is comprised of Iowa youth from middle school to college age who have a passion or interest in science, technology, engineering or mathematics. 
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  Drop-In

8:00am CST

Check-In and Networking
Friday November 6, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Community Choice Credit Union, Iowa Events Center
Check-in at the Community Choice Convention Center's Memorial Hall (300 level) of the Iowa Events Center. Check in starts at 8 a.m.

Once you are checked-in, make your way to the Foyer and Grand Ballroom (400 level) for:
  • Free breakfast buffet
  • Student Poster Walk
  • Summit Swag Stations, powered by the STEM BEST Program
  • Networking with attendees
  • Opening remarks begin at 9
Friday November 6, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Community Choice Credit Union, Iowa Events Center 833 5th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
  General Session

9:00am CST

Welcome and Opening Remarks
Friday November 6, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CST
Grand Ballroom (400 Level)

Friday November 6, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CST
Grand Ballroom (400 Level) Iowa Events Center, Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center
  General Session

12:00pm CST

Lunch
Friday November 6, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Grand Ballroom (400 Level)

Friday November 6, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Grand Ballroom (400 Level) Iowa Events Center, Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center
  General Session

1:00pm CST

Keynote
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST

Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
  General Session
 
Iowa STEM Summit 2026
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Friday, November 6
Community Choice Credit Union, Iowa Events Center
Grand Ballroom (400 Level)
Room 310
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