STEM Southwest Podcast
Designed to create STEM connections, cohesion, and elevation within the Southwest region of the United States. You have discovered a place where STEM enthusiasts gather to learn about the amazing STEM rockstars of the region as well as STEM activities that are impacting the world! Whether you are looking to learn more about STEM innovations in New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and California you are in the right place! If you have longed to be united with other STEM nerds, then you have found your people here at STEM Southwest! Check out our family-friendly show and events calendar designed to build problem solvers, thinkers, and innovators for the future. New episodes are released every other week.
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085 Regulating Cancer for the Cure, with Dr. Steve Worland
05/15/2022
085 Regulating Cancer for the Cure, with Dr. Steve Worland
Today's episode will take a deep dive into the science of cancer, asking the hard questions and discussing how regulation may lead to a cure. Our guest. Dr. Steve Worland, has a strong background in pharmaceuticals, research and molecular biology that led to a powerful discussion with Bob and Shelly. Show Notes Dr. Steve Worland has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of eFFECTOR Therapeutics and as a member of its Board of Directors since its inception in May 2012. Previously, Dr. Worland served as Chief Executive Officer of Anadys Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, from August 2007 until its acquisition by Roche Holding AG in 2011. Prior to his appointment as Chief Executive Officer of Anadys Pharmaceuticals, Dr. Worland served as its Chief Scientific Officer and President, Pharmaceuticals. Prior to Anadys Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Dr. Worland was Vice President and Head of Antiviral Research at Pfizer Inc. and Vice President at WarnerLambert Co., where he was responsible for worldwide anti-infectives strategy. Dr. Worland has served on the Board of Directors of Tracon Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, since February 2015. Dr. Worland was an NIH postdoctoral fellow in molecular biology at Harvard University and completed a Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of California, Berkeley. He received his B.S. with Highest Honors in Biological Chemistry from the University of Michigan. (Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse partnership) (in partnership with Cottonwood Mall) Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Contact: Steve Worland, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer eFFECTOR Therapeutics 142 North Cedros Avenue, Suite B Solana Beach, CA 92075 (858) 925-8215
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084 The Economic Impact of STEM, with Alex Greenberg
04/25/2022
084 The Economic Impact of STEM, with Alex Greenberg
Today's guest brings a perspective on the economic development impact of STEM as the newly appointed Director of the Office of Science and Technology for the New Mexico Economic Development Department. With a biomedical background, Alex Greenberg shares his unique perspective on the powerful impact that science is making on business and in the state. He shares how the important collective partnership of government agency, private business, and education will continue to improve the trajectory of all things STEM in the state, and encourages listeners to reach out and leverage the many resources available. Show Notes Alex Greenberg is the Director of the Science and Technology office for New Mexico State Economic Development Department (EDD). Alex has a background in project management and entrepreneurship. He holds a BA in psychology, and an MBA with a concentration in management of technology from the University of New Mexico. Most recently, Alex served as the Financial Program Specialist for the New Mexico EDD and, prior to that, worked in healthcare as a Clinical Project Manager in healthcare business development and as a strategist for a New Mexico biomedical startup. He has also worked extensively with local startups to address financing, long-term strategy, and system optimization. Alex’s focus is to supporting technology commercialization and the entrepreneurial ecosystem in New Mexico. (Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse partnership) (in partnership with Cottonwood Mall) Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Contact: Alex Greenberg, MBA Director, Science and Technology Office NM Economic Development Department (505) 690-4593
/episode/index/show/stemsw/id/22890461
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083 Illuminating STEM, with Paul Pickard
04/10/2022
083 Illuminating STEM, with Paul Pickard
Join Bob and Shelly today as they shine a light on the science of circadian rhythms and how guest, Dr. Paul Pickard, is using advances in technology to make life better for all of us. Today, you can listen in as we get nerdy over all things lighting, and explore how innovation is being used by physicists, light scientists, and data scientists at Korrus and other companies to ensure that we all have a brighter future! Show Notes Paul Pickard is the Chief Technology Officer of Korrus, Inc, a Los Angeles-based startup dedicated to improving human health and wellbeing through the power of light. A Mechanical Engineering graduate of the University of New Mexico, Paul has worked the help launch the first volume white-light LED luminaires and lamps with LLF and Cree, and was a member of the team that launched the first sub-$10 LED light bulb at Home Depot. A prolific inventor, Paul has over 250 granted US patents with many more pending. (Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse partnership) (in partnership with Cottonwood Mall) Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Contact: Paul Pickard (855) 632-6737
/episode/index/show/stemsw/id/22696220
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082 New Mexico Innovation Triangle, with John Rizzo
03/13/2022
082 New Mexico Innovation Triangle, with John Rizzo
Join Bob and Shelly as they interview John Rizzo, the CEO and co-founder of the New Mexico Innovation Triangle. John is leveraging the power of innovation and tech for the common good. John shares about some of his Silicon Valley experiences with Apple and Intel with the STEM Southwest listeners, and his current work with the New Mexico Innovation Triangle. Show Notes John is currently the CEO and co-founder of the New Mexico Innovation Triangle John Rizzo is an entrepreneurial transformation agent, focused on leveraging the power of innovation and technology for the common good. John has more than 40 years of experience helping guide some of the world’s most successful technology companies through start-up phases, major product launches, branding and marketing campaigns, rapid growth, acquisitions, and initial public offerings (IPOs). He has raised well over $200 million in venture capital financing, and was a key early-stage contributor to companies that are today delivering well over $325 billion in combined sales with combined market capitalizations well in excess of $2 trillion. You’ve probably heard of two companies in Silicon Valley that John Rizzo has worked for: Apple and Intel. At Apple, John was on the first Macintosh team with Steve Jobs. At Intel, John was responsible for what is FLASH memory today, which enables almost all of our consumer electronic devices. (Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse partnership) (in partnership with Cottonwood Mall) Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Contact: John Rizzo
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081 Getting Girls Into Tech, with Dr. Shelly Gruenig
02/24/2022
081 Getting Girls Into Tech, with Dr. Shelly Gruenig
How do we get Girls Into Tech and keep Girls Into Tech? In today’s episode, Shelly shares her emotional STEM story and how her 6th grade science fair project boosted her desire to learn more science and tech. Shelly shares about her first Radio Shack computer that was purchased with money that she earned delivering newspapers. She grew up in what we now call an underserved rural community with no mentors that could help to guide her pathway to tech, which impacted her access and her future career. She hopes to open doors of opportunity to girls in a way that no program has ever offered before. Show Notes We often hear Shelly share that we owe it to every daughter to open the doors of opportunity and fill them with hope while equipping them with skills and confidence that they can be successful in STEM. Growing up as a shy country girl, Shelly was an innovator and problem solver who would eventually become a community leader inducted into the STEM Hall of Fame. With a PhD in Workforce Education and Career Development, she believes that young people need two things to make their best career decisions: -Broad Range of Experiences -Great Role Models Shelly is committed to using her philosophy and experiences in working with young women in order to ensure that they have the opportunity to become a Girl Into Tech. She shares that “Girls Into Tech is my answer on how we encourage and support more Girls Into Tech - we need women’s viewpoints in the marketplace and the only way for that to happen is by knocking down the barriers that our daughters face.” Mimi Vandermolen, Ford Motor Company: What makes Girls Into Tech special: -ongoing support and mentoring community, not simply one and done -by girls for girls, growing them into peer leadership -monthly programming -workshops and training -access to scholarships and opportunities Special thanks to: Meta/Facebook for sponsoring the first cohort of girls in Valencia County, New Mexico R4Creating as Girls Into Tech sponsor: Founding sponsor, Market Ascent: How to support Girls Into Tech: Learn more about Girls Into Tech: Contact: Become a sponsor of Girls Into Tech: Sign up a Girl: Share your genius – send us an email on how you want to get involved:
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080 Entrepreneurial Excellence through Perseverance, with Dr. Srinivas Mukkamala
01/30/2022
080 Entrepreneurial Excellence through Perseverance, with Dr. Srinivas Mukkamala
What started with a class project led to an entrepreneurial journey and innovation in the informational technology company, RiskSense. Today's guest, Dr. Srinivas Mukkamala, openly shares the challenges and victories of his amazing race. In 2021, Ivanti acquired his company and he now serves as Senior Vice President of Security Products. Sri impressed Shelly while openly sharing his journey during a keynote presentation at the New Mexico Technology Council Experience IT Conference in 2021. There is a lot to unpack in this episode so let's get started! Show Notes Dr. Srinivas Mukkamala is Senior Vice President of Security Products for Ivanti. He was the founder and CEO for RiskSense until Ivanti acquired the company in August 2021. He is a recognized authority in the artificial intelligence (AI) and neural networks communities and was part of a think tank that collaborated with the U.S. Department of Defense on applying these concepts to cybersecurity problems. Dr. Mukkamala is responsible for Product Management for all Ivanti Security products and will continue to drive innovation in integrated security solutions across all company pillars: ITSM, Security, and UEM. Dr. Mukkamala was also a lead researcher for CACTUS (Computational Analysis of Cyber Terrorism against the U.S.) and holds a patent on Intelligent Agents for Distributed Intrusion Detection System and Method of Practicing. Dr. Mukkamala holds a PhD of Philosophy and a Master of Science degree from New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. (Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse partnership) (in partnership with Cottonwood Mall) Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Contact: Dr. Srinivas Mukkamala
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079 Bootcamp Ingenuity, with Andrea Sisneros Wichman
01/17/2022
079 Bootcamp Ingenuity, with Andrea Sisneros Wichman
This week’s guest, Andrea Sisneros Wichman, helps us dive into the subject of training and how it influences the STEM workforce. The CNM Ingenuity program offers a wide range of immersive technology training in addition to Coding Bootcamps. In 8-12 weeks, you can learn, apply the knowledge through project-based learning, and then walk into a new career. These programs are popular nationwide, but CNM was one of the first to offer this type of training, and is now working with other colleges across the nation to innovate in this way. Show Notes Andrea Sisneros Wichman, Program Director with CNM Ingenuity, leads immersive technology training programs, including the Deep Dive Coding Bootcamps. A fifteenth generation New Mexican, Andrea’s passion for the community is reflected in winning 40 Under 40 Business Leaders in New Mexico in 2018. Andrea has been with CNM since February 2011, building a portfolio of technical training programs through managing many grants, contracts, and business units such as Technology Solutions Labs. (Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse partnership) (in partnership with Cottonwood Mall) Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Contact: Andrea Sisneros-Wichman
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078 Discovering Fintech at FinCon21, with Ryan Ruff and Jake Tamarkin
11/26/2021
078 Discovering Fintech at FinCon21, with Ryan Ruff and Jake Tamarkin
This week’s episode is a double dose of Fin Tech! Join Bob and Shelly and learn about FinCon21, where money and media meet, and also hear from some of the interesting folks that they met and some great tools for your financial future. Show Notes Ryan Ruff is Head of Fintech Relations at ASA, bridging the gap with the creators of tech and those who want to invest in the development of tech. He is leading the way to create a bridge between technology development and those who want to invest in the future expansion of important tech. Jake Tamarkin is the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Everyday Life Insurance. Jake is passionate about using technology to help people make their financial lives easier. Let him explain why he says that “Insurance is Stupid” and just what we can do about it. A few of the financial apps that Bob and Shelly use Acorns automatically invests spare change and provides cashback rewards at select retailers Bumped turns everyday spending into investing by which users get fractional stock rewards when they spend. Bitmo rewards you for everyday shopping at major brands both online and in-store Travel Freely helps users navigate the process of earning credit card rewards for free travel Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Contact: Ryan Ruff (801) 473-5749 Jake Tamarkin (888) 681-3811
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077 Deloitte is Building the STEM Workforce Pipeline, with Celina Bussey
10/31/2021
077 Deloitte is Building the STEM Workforce Pipeline, with Celina Bussey
Celina Bussey is a Specialist Leader at Deloitte and this week's guest on STEM Southwest Podcast. Her rich experience in workforce development gives amazing insight into this deep dive discussion about the future of the STEM workforce. Shelly and Celina discuss workforce solutions and innovations as well as the important and growing work happening at Deloitte. Show Notes Celina Bussey is a Client Relationship Executive in Deloitte’s Government and Public Sector practice and serves as a subject matter expert for Labor and Workforce Development. She has worked with state and local government agencies, higher education, and the private sector in New Mexico for nearly 20 years. , by Joe Ucuzoglu, Chief Executive Officer, Deloitte , by Celina Bussey, John O’Leary, and Sushumna Agarwal Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Contact: Celina Bussey
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076 Bridging the Digital Divide for Tribes, with Catherine Nicolaou
10/08/2021
076 Bridging the Digital Divide for Tribes, with Catherine Nicolaou
Today's guest is working to ensure that the gap in the digital divide for Indian tribes is closing! Catherine Nicolaou and Sacred Wind Communications are leveraging all of the resources that they can reach and then some as they try to solve this daunting issue. Hear from her today about how organizations are partnering to make a difference and bridge the gap and what we can all do to make a difference! Nicolaou is an expert in state regulatory and marketing, a member of the New Mexico Technology Council, and a registered lobbyist. Show Notes Catherine Nicolaou is the External Affairs and Marketing Manager for Sacred Wind Communications, the state’s newest rural telecom carrier, which provides voice and internet service to rural and tribal areas in Northwest New Mexico on Navajo land. As such, she interfaces with state regulatory officials and government officials to promote the company's public image and business agenda. She also manages the coordination, review, compilation, assembly, filing and tracking of reports, tariffs, audits, applications, and petitions to state, tribal, local, and federal authorities, including state PRC, FCC, RUS, or any other governmental authority, while promoting brand recognition through the company’s marketing initiatives. Catherine is a member of the New Mexico Technology Council and the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce policy committees. She is a registered lobbyist for Sacred Wind and sits on the board of the Cibola Arts Council. ; send resumes to Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Contact: Catherine Nicolaou Sacred Wind Communications External Affairs and Marketing Manager 7801 Academy Rd NE Building 2, Suite 103 Albuquerque, NM 87109 (505) 908-2668 Sacred Wind Communications
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075 STEM Education Disrupted, with Dr. Rebecca Woodbury (Keller)
10/06/2021
075 STEM Education Disrupted, with Dr. Rebecca Woodbury (Keller)
Today's guest, Dr. Rebecca Woodbury (Keller), is a scientist, chemist, educator, cyclist, and curriculum expert! In this episode, she and Shelly have a great discussion on how to disrupt education and what needs to be done to provide a greater STEM experience for students. Join them and consider what you can do to take action and help to infuse education with a love of learning! Show Notes For over 20 years. Dr. Rebecca Woodbury (Keller) has been exploring the ways students learn. Starting out as a research scientist in the field of biophysical chemistry, she left academia to create quality educational support materials for students and educators. In 2003, she founded Gravitas Publications Inc. and introduced the Real Science-4-Kids product line for home and classroom educators. In 2020, Dr. Woodbury branched out to launch a new company, called Nachokat, to introduce the RATATAZ STEM program as a way to introduce fundamental science concepts in easy-to-use activity-based kits. The RATATAZ program incorporates several different learning modalities to get kids back to asking their own questions and playing like real scientists. , by Dan Rothstein and Luz Santana , by Daniel Coyle Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Contact: Dr. Rebecca Woodbury (Keller), Ph.D CEO, RATATAZ Science Kits Nachokat LLC RATATAZ 300 Menaul Drive NW, Suite 200 Albuquerque, NM 87107 (505) 207-8125
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074 Mastering Space Logistics, with Jonathan Firth
09/16/2021
074 Mastering Space Logistics, with Jonathan Firth
Please join us today as we have an interesting discussion with a repeat guest, Jonathan Firth, who is Chief Operating Officer at D-Orbit, an international New Space company with solutions covering the entire lifecycle of a space mission. We first met Jonathan as the organizer of the Las Cruces Space Festival and met him again at a robotics competition while he was in the U.S. working with Virgin Galactic. He was a long-standing member of the senior executive team that started up Virgin Galactic and we are blessed to call him a friend who has done a lot to support the STEM Southwest Podcast. Show Notes Jonathan Firth has been directly involved in the development of the commercial space industry since 2004, when ‘SpaceShipOne’ reached suborbital space and won the ‘Ansari X-Prize’. He is the Chief Operating Officer at D-Orbit, an international New Space company with solutions covering the entire lifecycle of a space mission, including: mission analysis and design, engineering, manufacturing, integration, testing, launch, and end-of-life decommissioning. Previously he was a long-standing member of the senior executive team that started up Virgin Galactic, The Spaceship Company and Virgin Orbit, leveraging his previous business development and program management experience in the commercial aviation, long distance rail, mass transit, and oil & gas industries. Jonathan is a mechanical engineering graduate of Imperial College London and holds an MBA from Henley Business School, UK. He is a regular keynote speaker on space activities and the global space economy at international events. Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Contact: Jonathan Firth
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073 Sparks Fly with Utility Merger and Zozobra, with Ray Sandoval
08/31/2021
073 Sparks Fly with Utility Merger and Zozobra, with Ray Sandoval
Join Shelly and her guest today, Ray Sandoval, Director of Corporate Communications and brand management at PNM Resources, talk about key issues including sustainability and environmental leadership. Ray also shares his love of Old Man Gloom, Zozobra, and explains the technology involved in lighting a fire to burn away troubles! Show Notes Ray Sandoval is the Director of Corporate Communications and brand management at PNM Resources. In this role, Ray directs the internal and external corporate communications strategy while leading key initiatives to benefit PNM customers and community engagement. Additionally, Ray manages the external awareness on the company’s corporate sustainability and environmental leadership. He earned a law degree from Boston University, and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from American University. Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Contact: Raymond Sandoval (505) 241-2782
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072 Virgin, Space, and Elon Musk, with Jill Meyers
08/02/2021
072 Virgin, Space, and Elon Musk, with Jill Meyers
Today's guest is no stranger to the STEM Southwest podcast. Jill Meyers was a previous guest on Episode 66, and we brought her back today to share her experience as a VIP at the Virgin Galactic launch from Spaceport America. Jill recounts her thoughts as she watched firsthand the history of making spaceflight and her close brush with Elon Musk. Show Notes Jill Meyers has been in aviation her entire life since earning her private pilot's license at age 17. She is an Aerospace Engineer, Air Force veteran, STEM advocate and mentor, professional speaker, and owner of Meyers AeroConsulting. In 2019, Jill was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society in London, the world's only professional body dedicated to the aerospace community. , by Frank White Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Contact: (505) 610-8851
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071 Fictional Futurists, with Andrew Proctor
07/07/2021
071 Fictional Futurists, with Andrew Proctor
This week’s guest is young and wise with thoughtful answers to questions we are all asking. Join us as this STEM Rockstar shares his passion for leveling the playing field and building a place where kids can create and learn. STEM Southwest interviews Andrew Proctor and reveals the power of youth. In addition, Bob and Shelly share their plans for attending the launch of Sir Richard Branson into space as Astronaut 001 launching from southern New Mexico's Spaceport America! Join them on Facebook live or in person at the launch on July 11 at 7am! Show Notes Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse)
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070 Growing Our Commitment to STEM, with Bob and Shelly
06/08/2021
070 Growing Our Commitment to STEM, with Bob and Shelly
In this episode, hosts Bob and Shelly dig deep and share their personal commitment to connecting the STEM dots. Listeners will get behind the scenes commentary on life, profession, and as always, all things STEM. Join our rockstar hosts as they recommit to you, their listeners! Show Notes Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Contact: (505) 715-7732
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069 The World of Drone Racing, with Shaun and Teng Ma Taylor
05/12/2021
069 The World of Drone Racing, with Shaun and Teng Ma Taylor
Shaun Taylor, aka Nytfury FPV, and his wife, Teng Ma, aka JuneBug FPV, are professional drone pilots that have accepted awards on both world and national podiums. Shaun is a world champion, 2xnational champion and 2xXDC champion along with numerous other awards. Teng has earned the title as fastest female and is a member of the USA women's FPV team. Recently, Shaun used his drone to help rescue a dog that was wedged in a crevice in the Sandia Mountain Foothills. Their love of drone racing is only second to their love for one another and their son, Max. This married duo will share their knowledge of drones and show off their superpowers during our episode. Show Notes In early 2015, Shaun Taylor was a firefighter when he started to fly drones on his off-days. The drone racing industry was on fire and, in June 2016, after winning five of the biggest drone races between 2015-2016, Shaun asked his wife if he could quit his job in order to prepare for the 2016 MultiGP national championship and the subsequent world championship in Hawaii. His wife, Teng, unequivocally agreed and Shaun quit his job that same month. Three months later, Shaun won the aforementioned national championship (defending his title from 2015). A month later, he won the world championship in Hawaii. Subsequently, Shaun signed with DR1, a premier drone racing league that aired on Eurosport. The league lasted two seasons and Shaun’s team won both seasons. By the end of 2017, Shaun has solidified his reputation as the most decorated drone pilot in the world, a title for which even the fastest drone pilots today have a hard time competing due to the lack of events. Shaun became a dad in December 2018 and spent the majority of the last year at home (due to COVID-19). Today, Shaun still enjoys flying drones with his wife at the park on a weekly basis, and plans to go back to the fire department for which he has been asked to integrated drones in future fire and rescue efforts. Teng Taylor started to fly drones to spend more time with Shaun, and she started to progress quickly. Teng also started to travel with Shaun and compete as well. In 2019, Teng won the fastest female spot on team USA to compete in China and took third place at that competition. This year, races are starting to come back, and Teng is excited to be competing again. Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Contact:
/episode/index/show/stemsw/id/19056800
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068 The Future of Women in STEM, a New Mexico Technology Council panel discussion
04/05/2021
068 The Future of Women in STEM, a New Mexico Technology Council panel discussion
Join Shelly as she leads a panel discussion of Women in STEM on the important topic of getting our girls more involved in tech. Hear the perspectives of this diverse panel during a session at Experience IT, an event sponsored by the New Mexico Technology Council, as these panelists cover important thoughts, experiences, and focus on understanding the power of mentoring for young women in technology. From STEM educators to professionals, these ladies have a lively and important discussion about their own experiences, and how to make the workplace more welcoming for women. In today's episode, Shelly invites us all to become mentors for young women in technology to ensure a brighter future for all. Show Notes Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Contact:
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067 Robots Taking Over the World, with Chris Ziomek
03/22/2021
067 Robots Taking Over the World, with Chris Ziomek
Robots are revolutionizing every industry and today’s guest shares how his company is ensuring co-bots are keeping people safe while completing important tasks. Chris Ziomek and the team at Build With Robots are making a difference and leveraging the support of the community to make great things happen! Show Notes Chris Ziomek is a tech entrepreneur who has over 30 years of experience in high-tech industries. Chris presently leads Build With Robots, an automation business developing the next generation of robotic tools. Chris also serves as an adviser and investor in many New Mexico-based startups. His prior professional experience includes: Senior Vice President and General Manager at Teradyne, Founder and President of ZTEC Instruments, microwave engineer at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center, and section leader at the Los Alamos National Laboratory. Chris holds BS and MS degrees in electrical engineering and is a licensed professional engineer in the state of New Mexico. Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Contact: Chris Ziomek (505) 224-3955
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066 STEM in Flight, with Jill Meyers
02/24/2021
066 STEM in Flight, with Jill Meyers
Today's guest shares her journey flying high and the work that it took her to get there. Jill Meyers has had a storied career in STEM with some amazing organizations, and we know you will be wanting more when we are done . . . because we did! From stories about aviation, learning to fly at 17 years old, and facing the challenging world of STEM as a woman, she shares it all. We even get to hear about her latest adventures with Virgin Galactic and the WAI Land of Enchantment Chapter as she mentors her way through an amazing career! Show Notes Jill Meyers has been in aviation her entire life since earning her private pilot's license at age 17. She is an Aerospace Engineer, Air Force veteran, STEM advocate and mentor, professional speaker, and owner of Meyers AeroConsulting. In 2019, Jill was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society in London, the world's only professional body dedicated to the aerospace community. (Documentary) (Documentary film by The Red Door Films) (Dramatic scripted series by the Red Door Films) Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Contact: (505) 610-8851
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065 Law-st in Space, with Day Hochman-Vigil
02/11/2021
065 Law-st in Space, with Day Hochman-Vigil
This week’s guest, a NM State Representative, takes a break from her duties serving the people of New Mexico to discuss important issues that matter to the region. Her passion for flying led to a path in aviation law. She is leading the way to establish New Mexico as a premiere place for space and flight. Listen in as Bob nerds out over law and politics in a conversation with Day Hochman-Vigil. Show Notes Day Hochman-Vigil is a native New Mexican, born and raised in Santa Fe, and is the only certified aviation and space attorney in the State of New Mexico. She practices law as a commercial aviation safety and security specialist and has been recognized for her work providing pro bono community legal services. She graduated from the University of New Mexico School of Law and holds a Master of Law degree in Aviation and Space Law from McGill University. Day comes from hard-working New Mexican roots. Her father was a local doctor, rancher, and small business owner outside of Glorieta, NM, while her mother managed a restaurant on the Santa Fe Plaza. At an early age, Day became interested in language, political science and the arts. After graduating with her Bachelor of Arts, Day witnessed the social and political realities for four countries, learning to speak three languages fluently. Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average (Partnership between Be Greater Than Average and Electric Playhouse) Contact:
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064 Money and Risk, with Ann Shubert
01/24/2021
064 Money and Risk, with Ann Shubert
Today’s interview is a follow-up with Financial expert, Ann Shubert. It is our first podcast built to help with the money questions that you have. Join us as we get beginner tips for those just starting out on their financial journey, as well as those for professionals with retirement nearing. Great tips for STEM entrepreneurs and advice that you don’t have to be a math major to understand! Ann Shubert started her professional career planning to be an astrophysicist, receiving a BA in Physics from Princeton University and an MS in Astrophysics from the California Institute of Technology. After realizing that she was not cut out to be a pure research scientist, Ann shifted gears into a 30-year career in the defense industry, first designing and building software systems and later managing multi-million-dollar aerospace programs. In 2014, while enrolled in the University of New Mexico’s Executive MBA program, Ann made another major career transition, becoming a licensed Financial Advisor. Three years later, she co-founded Intentional Finance LLC, an independent, woman-owned, Registered Investment Adviser firm. Ann enjoys working with women in STEM, combining science-based approaches to financial planning, risk management and investing with her interest in behavioral finance and how people make decisions about money. Because she knows what it is like to be a woman in a male dominated workplace, Ann feels a special kinship with women in the STEM fields, and loves helping them to reach a place of confidence about their finances so they can keep their energies focused on their STEM passion, whether in research, education or business. Show Notes Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Contact: Ann Shubert Intentional Finance LLC 7770 Jefferson Street NE, Suite 430 Albuquerque, NM 87109 (505) 563-4500
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063 Kicking Off 2021, with Bob and Shelly
01/13/2021
063 Kicking Off 2021, with Bob and Shelly
This week, we start off 2021 with a special peek into the lives of our hosts, Bob and Shelly. They are no longer hiding behind the microphone because their podcast editor has convinced them to give listeners more. So, now you cannot only listen to the podcast, but if you choose, you can watch the video recording on their YouTube channel! Bob and Shelly are driven to be mentors and encourage young people to do hard things! Join them today for this very special and personal episode as STEM Southwest kicks off its third year of sharing some of the most amazing STEM rocktars of the Southwest! Show Notes Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Contact: (505) 715-7732
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062 The Dirty Little Secret, with Dr. Gary Selwyn
12/17/2020
062 The Dirty Little Secret, with Dr. Gary Selwyn
Join Bob and Shelly this week and get the scoop on a dirty little science secret that the textile industry doesn't want you to know. Our guest, Gary S. Selwyn, a retired Los Alamos National Laboratory chemist, shares his discoveries and innovations that have him learning a lot about the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval process as he works to share his life-saving innovation in the prevention of COVID19! Show Notes Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Gary S. Selwyn received his B.S. degree in chemistry from New York University, Albany, in 1974, and his Ph.D. degree in chemical physics from University of California, Berkley, in 1979. From 1979 to 1982, he did postdoctoral research at the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand, and at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC. From 1982 to 1994, he worked first as a Staff Scientist with IBM and then as a Research Manager at the IBM Watson Research Center. He co-chaired a NATO Advanced Research Conference in 1993 and is the recipient of two R&D100 Awards. He has been with the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Los Alamos, NM, since 1994, and studies the chemistry and physics of plasmas used in materials processing. He is also the President and founder of APJeT, Inc., a spin-off from LANL that is commercializing a licensed atmospheric pressure plasma technology for material processing applications. Gary has since retired and started his own company, Greenthemetek, treating fabrics and currently has a mask treatment to prevent COVID19 in the FDA approval process. Contact: Gary S Selwyn, PhD
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061 Connecting the Stars in NewSpace, with Casey Anglada DeRaad
11/29/2020
061 Connecting the Stars in NewSpace, with Casey Anglada DeRaad
Working to make New Mexico the first choice for the space industry today’s guest is investing her retirement years in this mission. Breaking down walls and silos helps to create a rich ecosystem that will benefit the entire Southwest region and lead to a greater economic impact. Space is more than a $350 billion industry. It has increased tenfold over the last decade. and is anticipated to grow as much in the next decade, with more than 80% of the monies being private investment. This is an opportunity that everyone needs to know about and what we will discuss on today’s episode. Show Notes Be Greater Than Average Be Greater Than Average Casey Anglada DeRaad is Founder and Director of NewSpace New Mexico, a non-profit established to grow the commercial Space industry in NM and to create a bigger voice to New Mexico’s Space industry stakeholders from industry, academia, Air Force, the national labs, and local, state and federal organizations. NewSpace NM is developing an expansion and communication strategy for the first time to leverage the significant federal investment and R&D Space assets, and to take advantage of the exponential growth in the commercial Space industry for our state and nation. Casey was a 30-year executive of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), leading the Technology Engagement Office for academic, industry, and community partnerships for AFRL and other Air Force partners on Kirtland Air Force Base. Casey developed strategies to support the local academic and industrial community to help it leverage the $3.8B/annual economic impact of Kirtland to New Mexico. Casey has previously led spacecraft electronics, space systems, and joint technology investment efforts for the Air Force and NASA. She helped establish the University of New Mexico’s (UNM’s) successful COSMIAC aerospace center with AFRL, UNM, industry, Sandia and Los Alamos laboratories. She established, gained resources, and led AFRL’s $4M/year, fifth through university level programs inspiring over 4000 students per year into STEM programs including the lauded AFRL Scholars and University NanoSat programs with excellent female and minority participation. Contact: Connect with Join the
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060 Making Money and Delighting Audiences Using Technology, with Erika Hecht
11/08/2020
060 Making Money and Delighting Audiences Using Technology, with Erika Hecht
Today's guest is an expert in using technology to advance business and learning. Erika Hecht is the CEO of Market Ascent and shares her thoughts and expertise on how we can make money and delight audiences in order to make a greater impact using technology and tools to create amazing online experiences. Show Notes Fall STEM Learning offered by - online and in-person for learners. Also, check out the Be Greater Than Average webpage to get your copy of . Help us grow our STEM programs through the Facebook page. For over 20 years, Market Ascent Founder, Erika Woldman Hecht, has been solving business strategy and marketing problems for technology and learning organizations, helping them grow smarter, faster, and better. She has taken her experience and packaged it into a proprietary process that saves clients time while putting them on a direct path to achieving desired outcomes. Erika is also a thought-leader in the online learning field and is on a mission to shine a light on how organizations can create amazing online experiences that delight customers while generating incremental revenues. Passionate about education, Erika is a life-long learner and volunteers as programming director for her local chapter of the American Marketing Association to further the development of marketing professionals with the latest advances and thinking in the field. Contact: (505) 821-9132
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059 Blasting Off with the U.S. Space Force, with Gabe Mounce and Captain Roger Anderson
10/20/2020
059 Blasting Off with the U.S. Space Force, with Gabe Mounce and Captain Roger Anderson
In this special episode, we hear from two members of the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL), Gabe Mounce and Captain Roger Anderson, as we discuss the innovative programs that AFRL is using to connect business and government through technology and innovation. Show Notes Fall STEM Learning offered by - online and in-person for learners. Also, check out the Be Greater Than Average webpage to get your copy of . Help us grow our STEM programs through the Facebook page. Gabe Mounce directs the Space Force Accelerator program for the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) in New Mexico. In this capacity, he oversees the Hyperspace Challenge in Albuquerque and the Catalyst Space Accelerator in Colorado Springs, both focused on connecting the entrepreneurial start-up community to the US Space Force. He is also the Technology Commercialization Lead for AFRL where he oversees all aspects of technology transfer, community engagement, and marketing & publicity for Directed Energy and Space Vehicle technology. Mr. Mounce recently founded the New Mexico COVID-19 Emergency Supply Collaborative, bringing together government, non-profit, and private sector organizations from across the state to provide Personal Protective Equipment to Healthcare Providers in need due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Captain Roger S. Anderson oversees operations of Space Force Accelerators at the Air Force Research Lab for Space Vehicles at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. He aligns start-up company innovation with Space Force needs and vectors start-up technology for success through the Hyperspace Challenge and Catalyst Accelerator programs. He also oversees the Space Vehicles’ professional development program that immerses young acquisition professionals inside of innovation units and teaches agile acquisition concepts. Important links to other STEM Southwest Interviews that touch on factors that are involved in building the Second Golden Age of Space. Brian Barnett, Solstar Space; Rachel Gupton, Sandia National Laboratories, Shelly Gruenig, Be Greater Than Average, George Gorospe, NASA, Matt Fetrow, AFRL, Contact:
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058 STEM Professionals Returning Home, with Maggie Werner-Washburne and Monica Sandoval-Johnson
09/25/2020
058 STEM Professionals Returning Home, with Maggie Werner-Washburne and Monica Sandoval-Johnson
Join us this week when we talk about STEM repatriation with the leaders of STEM Boomerang. After noticing a brain drain in the STEM community, STEM Boomerang stepped in to support the journey home for many New Mexicans. Other states are pursuing a similar program to ensure that the STEM workforce pipeline remains enriched. It all started here in the Southwest and we are going to uncover the important information! We will discuss everything from STEM careers to internships - don't miss this episode! Show Notes Fall STEM Learning offered by - online and in-person for learners. Also, check out the Be Greater Than Average webpage to get your copy of . Help us grow our STEM programs through the Facebook page. Maggie is retired from UNM, where she was a Regents Professor of Biology, and an adjunct in Computer Science and Molecular Genetics and Microbiology and a full member of the UNM Cancer Center. Maggie chose to come to UNM because her mother was from Mexico and the students made her feel like she was among family. Her current work is to help some of the 600+ students that she mentored at UNM and nationally to come back home to their families for great STEM careers, and to support economic development in New Mexico. Monica Sandoval-Johnson, PhD is the co-Director at STEM Boomerang and has a passion for building up the STEM workforce in New Mexico. Monica is a UNM alumni, who has received higher education at both the University of Colorado and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Since returning to New Mexico, her mission has been on recruiting and repatriating New Mexico's high-tech and innovation economies. Contact:
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057 Powering up for the 21st Century, with Alaric Babej and Jon Hawkins
09/08/2020
057 Powering up for the 21st Century, with Alaric Babej and Jon Hawkins
We often take electricity technology for granted, until it isn't there anymore. With one flip of a light switch, we become part of the largest machine in the country! During this week's episode, we will explore the importance of and developments in renewable energy, what careers are available, and how local and regional power companies are partnering with consumers to change what used to be a one-way road into a two-way street by using technology to build the smart grid. Join us as we discuss this and much, much more with our guests from PNM, Alaric Babej and Jon Hawkins. Show Notes Fall STEM Learning offered by - online and in-person for learners. Also, check out the Be Greater Than Average webpage to get your copy of Help us grow our STEM programs through the Facebook page. Alaric J. Babej is the Product Development Manager at PNM and works to design and implement customer programs for electrification and voluntary renewables. Major initiatives include transportation electrification to aid in the adoption of electric vehicles, and programs to assist customers meet their sustainability goals. Alaric has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Rhode Island where he focused on automotive technology, and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Washington with a focus in renewable energy systems. He enjoys learning languages and playing hockey in his free time. Jon Hawkins is the Associate Director for Innovation and Communications at PNM Resources. Jon’s team is responsible providing research and development of new technologies used in the generation, distribution, and use of energy as well as design, implementation, and maintenance of telecommunications and network systems across PNMR. Jon has his Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of New Mexico, is a member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and has been author or co-author on multiple publications primarily focused on integration and optimization of PV with energy storage. Contact:
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056 From Math to Money, with Ann Shubert
08/23/2020
056 From Math to Money, with Ann Shubert
As a girl, Ann dreamed of being an astrophysicist. Her journey into a STEM career led her into the defense industry. After years of success, she enrolled in an MBA program and there, during a math class, she had the opportunity to help other women understand. That moment, when she taught until “the light came on,” and her classmates’ new confidence with math, changed them and her. That experience would change her and shift her career from math to money. Her dream is to support women in STEM to be comfortable building their financial success and designing their financial future. What small financial change could you make that would end in financial freedom? Show Notes Fall STEM Learning offered by - online and in-person for learners; the schedule will be released in late August. Also, check out the Be Greater Than Average page to get your copy of Help us grow our STEM programs through the Facebook page. Please check out , whose mission is to provide support for those organizations making valuable contributions to increase the number of STEM opportunities for students. Ann Shubert started her professional career planning to be an astrophysicist, receiving a BA in Physics from Princeton University and an MS in Astrophysics from the California Institute of Technology. After realizing that she was not cut out to be a pure research scientist, Ann shifted gears into a 30-year career in the defense industry, first designing and building software systems and later managing multi-million-dollar aerospace programs. In 2014, while enrolled in the University of New Mexico’s Executive MBA program, Ann made another major career transition, becoming a licensed Financial Advisor. Three years later, she co-founded Intentional Finance LLC, an independent, woman-owned, Registered Investment Adviser firm. Ann enjoys working with women in STEM, combining science-based approaches to financial planning, risk management and investing with her interest in behavioral finance and how people make decisions about money. Because she knows what it is like to be a woman in a male dominated workplace, Ann feels a special kinship with women in the STEM fields, and loves helping them to reach a place of confidence about their finances so they can keep their energies focused on their STEM passion, whether in research, education or business. Contact: Ann Shubert Intentional Finance LLC 7770 Jefferson Street NE, Suite 430 Albuquerque, NM 87109 (505) 563-4500
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