My name is Brandi Wahl and I am currently the Outreach Coordinator for The Kids Research Institute Australia. I have been with The Kids since June 2024 and before that I have had a plethora of jobs that have taken me all over the world, including Australia as I am originally from the USA. I have been fortunate enough to travel the world with my career and inspire students and adults along the way to learn more about science and to follow their dreams.

I was born in the US and though life has never been easy, I was lucky enough to have an amazing mother who taught me to always be kind, but never back down from chasing your dreams. As a teenager, life threw us a curve ball and we became homeless and dreams of traveling the world and not always living paycheck to paycheck never even crossed my subconsciousness. I watched my mom fight hard to get herself, my nephew and I back on our feet. She was my hero. I always wanted to give back, so at 13 I started volunteering for Parks and Recreation and soon worked myself up to a job with them at 16 teaching Nature Education to kids.

I went to the University of West Florida on scholarships and continued working multiple jobs in retail and on campus to pay for anything my scholarships didn’t. In Uni I studied marine biology, public relations, and hospitality management. These led me to internships with SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment and Walt Disney World where I got to glimpse what a career in STEM could look like even if I wasn’t a Scientist, Technician, Engineer, or Mathematician. I could be an educator teaching about animals and the science we use to work with them.

At the end of my time at Uni I was selected to be one of 5 Americans to work in Croatia with a Living Language program. However, I had 5 months before that started and decided to take a job with the US Space and Rocket Centre teaching space flight history and rocket science, because why not? Since then, I caught the travel bug and found that if I was willing to put in the work, I could do anything I wanted and go anywhere. I have worked all of the USA, in Croatia, and in Australia in Sydney and Perth. I have travelled the world and been given opportunities to meet incredible people, including helping to cook dinner for one Mr. Niel Armstrong and listening to the incredible Jane Goodall talk about her work. I have taught over 1,000,000 students and hopefully inspired a few along the way.

My mottos on life are Wish it. Dream it. Do it. and the only limitation is your imagination. By living to these and remembering to be kind, life has been one glorious ride.

Although Barbara’s first choice of career was an Astronaut she pursued a career in gold exploration in Western Australia Barbara before becoming a primary and then secondary teacher teaching from the Kimberly to the south west of Western Australia. She has taught STEM to students from K-12 students mainly focusing on Marine, Environmental and Earth Science projects. She secured a STEM scholarship and took 4 students to the US for Space Camp, a life changing experience for them.

As an active member of several community groups including the Australian Association for Environmental Education, the Australian Citizen Science Association WA, the Mandurah Heritage and Environment Group and she was instrumental in the formation and ongoing activities of the Estuary Guardians. Barbara leads students in practical projects including Dolphin Watch, wildlife monitoring, tree planting, and marine debris clean-ups, integrating these efforts into her teaching. Barbara also volunteers her time with Coastal Waste Warriors, Mandurah Dolphin Rescue, Seabird Rescue, and the Shorebird 2020 count.

Key STEM projects have been created through the development of long term relationships in her community with not for profits, researchers and environmental groups focusing on endangered fish stock enhancement projects and estuarine health. Along with scientists from The Peel Harvey Catchment Council and Murdoch University her work led to the establishment of a purpose built aquaculture classroom. Students involved in the pilot built and managed the system along with the researchers.

She has also engaged with The Nature Conservancy and the Binjareb Indigenous Rangers where students grew mussels from juveniles to adults in specially designed baskets and were deposited on an artificial reef to explore mussel colonisation in the estuary enhancing ecosystems and improving water quality. Mussel monitoring continues with Murdoch University researchers on using mussels as early warning systems for algal blooms and fish kills.

Her accolades for teaching and sustainability include the 2012 WA Regional Achievement and Community Award, the 2014 WA Primary Science Award, the Australian Association of Environmental Educators WA Award, and the joint2018 Citizen Scientist of the Year award. She was chosen by EarthEcho International to work on Marine Debris Curriculum and as a mentor teacher for Sustainable Fishing Projects in the UK.

Chaperoning 22 students to Global Destination Imagination in 2019, is a career highlight for Katie. Assisting the Australian teams with their competition needs and seeing them emersed in a cohort of thousands of students all excited to participate in the global competition, while making lifelong friends with likeminded students. These articulate minds are the innovators of our future.

Katie currently works for the Group Training Organisation, My Gateway. My Gateway employs and trains young people in future skill development through apprenticeships and traineeships. This allows the leaner to study in a practical environment while completing their theory studies. Working with the apprentice, host company, training organisation along with the Australian Government has seen Katie’s Business degree and Education experience lead to her contributing to changes in training delivery and practices across VET pathways. Katie is very proud to have supported many apprentices and trainees achieve their career objectives to become an essential part of Australia’s skilled workforce moving into the future.

In her leisure time she likes to spend time with her family and cruising in her Mustang.

Joanne is a highly experienced education professional with internationally recognised expertise in online assessments, curriculum implementation and trends in educational pedagogy. Throughout her professional and personal life, Joanne has been driven to provide engaging, interesting and diverse opportunities for others so they can be encouraged to achieve their best

Stan has transformed science and education through his inventive workshops and groundbreaking projects. From 2011 to 2025, he taught students and educators to construct his Pneumatically Controlled Canadarm, inspiring curiosity and ingenuity. He has been a keynote instructor for global conferences, including NASA’s Space Exploration Educators Conference at Johnson Space Center. Stan’s workshops at various venues, such as shopping malls and airports, have introduced children to the wonders of science through hands-on projects like hovercrafts and balsawood gliders. His innovative teaching methods at Pickering Nuclear Power Plant and Scientists in Schools have nurtured curiosity among thousands of students across Canada.

Stan’s commitment to empowering communities is evident in his diverse roles. He was instrumental in establishing a Better Business Bureau for Windsor, Ontario, and led efforts to create a health clinic in Southwest Detroit as Chair of the Board of Advisors. As Head Minister in the Anglican Church, Stan inspired congregations across three parishes in Detroit and New Brunswick. He founded St. Leonard’s House for Ex-offenders, creating a space for second chances and rehabilitation. Stan’s multifaceted career showcases his dedication to fostering community growth and well-being.

Stan’s leadership extends to his memberships and active contributions to esteemed organizations, including the Knights of Columbus (3rd and 4th Degree), Probus Clubs, and the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Toronto Center. His efforts have earned him respect as a community leader and an influential educator. Stan is also a seasoned coach in sports like soccer, table tennis, and cross country, reflecting his ability to mentor both academically and athletically.

With a career spanning decades, Stan embodies the spirit of lifelong learning and giving back. His presence on the advisory board reflects his commitment to driving innovative educational strategies, fostering collaboration, and inspiring the next generation of leaders. Stan’s work combines professional expertise, community engagement, and a passion for science, ensuring a lasting impact on those he mentors and works alongside.

Cristina is a passionate advocate for space exploration, STEM education, and gender equality in the space sector. Currently working for Shell Technology in the field of Telecommunications, Network and Connectivity, with previous experience working for the European Space Agency (ESA) in the Science Department, she contributes to groundbreaking space missions such as Solar Orbiter and Euclid, advancing humanity’s understanding of the universe.

Deeply committed to inspiring the next generation, Cristina actively champions STEM education, with a particular focus on encouraging more women and girls to pursue careers in space and technology. She firmly believes that the gender gap in STEM does not begin in the workplace it starts in the classroom. That’s why she advocates for early intervention, fostering a learning environment where mathematics, physics, and chemistry are seen as creative, fascinating, and essential disciplines rather than abstract challenges.

Her professional journey spans leadership roles, as an alumna and mentor of the International Space University, she has advocated for space investment in development sectors such as food and water security, where she has driven transformation and change management initiatives. As the leader of the “Sensing Progress” team at the SHSSP2016 ISU Space Program in Australia, they introduced the concept of the New Space Economy, emphasizing the potential of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and nanosatellites to address critical global challenges such as food and water security in the Global South.

Beyond her technical and strategic contributions, is a vocal ambassador for Corporate Social Responsibility, believing that space technology and innovation are key to bridging the economic and technological divide between the Global North and South. She actively supports international efforts aimed at poverty eradication, climate resilience, sustainable development, and global prosperity.

With a strong background in strategy, communication, and social responsibility, and extensive experience in Space has played a key role in designing a strategic plan to leverage space technologies for global development, which led to multilateral collaboration and International Cooperation through the use of an agile Digital Platform (CEAMM Bridging the Gap) fostering Collaboration – Co-Creation – Cooperation.

A visionary in innovation and sustainability, Cristina continues to bridge the gap between space innovation and socioeconomic progress, working to scale up global initiatives for a more inclusive and technologically advanced future.As an advocate for diversity and inclusion, she is deeply involved in women-in-STEM and space networking organizations, working to break barriers and create more opportunities for women in science and technology. In recognition of her efforts, she has been Awarded UN Global Peace Council Leadership Excellence 2024. Top 200 Global Women Power Leaders of 2024. Business Excellence Leadership Awards 2024, reinforcing her belief that space should be a force for good because nobody should be left behind.

Tiffany is the CEO and Director of Space, a scientist specialising in defence and space business development, innovative technologies, and microgravity research. As the cofounder of a veteran-owned defence consultancy and space business development firm, she combines her expertise in health science with 25 years of experience in the defence and veteran community. Additionally, Tiffany has over a decade of clinical experience as a
practising clinical nutritionist in counselling centres

Tiffany is an accomplished author, contributing to peer-reviewed studies on military veterans’ and families’ mental health, white papers on space law, and groundbreaking research on stratospheric balloon technology. Her most recent achievement includes the launch of Cambrian microbial research aboard a suborbital rocket in the Arctic Circle. She is also an alumna of the prestigious International Space University and was a finalist in The King’s Trust Australia Beyond Service Awards.

A dedicated advocate for community engagement, Tiffany co-founded the Australian Space Diversity Alliance (ASDA), a national initiative promoting inclusivity in the space sector. Her outreach efforts extend to developing military mental health and well-being frameworks, establishing veteran peer support networks, advancing veteran conflict archaeology, and championing space education in the Indo Pacific.

For the contribution to Kibo-ABC programs, he was awarded The Commendation for Science and Technology by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology in Japan in 2024.

In his 30+ years of experience in the space industry, he served several unique roles such as a member of the first generation of Kibo Flight Controller team, a diver for the Weightless Environment Testing Simulator to develop procedures for EVA before Kibo was launched, and a manager of a science prep team.

He also composes a wide variety of musical works with genres stretched from classical, jazz and to modern day pops. Relatively large amount of his works are available in the internet.

Her teaching experience spans a diverse range of educational settings, including an all-boys school, a state co-ed school, and the past 20 years at Assumption Convent. Three years ago, she was promoted to principal, where she continues to champion innovation in education.

Anthea is an enthusiastic advocate for STEM education, particularly in inspiring young women to pursue careers in science and technology. She has been an active participant in Assumption Convent’s annual Space Camp, which has grown into a dynamic hub for space education. Last June, the school welcomed Diane Phillips from Canada and Jackie Carpenter from One Giant Leap Australia, who spent a week working with staff and students to explore the wonders of space. Their visit inspired the expansion of the program to include educators from surrounding schools, fostering collaboration and curiosity in the field of space science.

Anthea is passionate about fostering confidence in young women through STEM initiatives, ensuring they have the opportunities and encouragement to excel in traditionally male-dominated fields. She continues to seek new ways to enhance learning experiences, believing that education should empower, inspire, and open doors to limitless possibilities.

In addition to her formal role at a higher education institution in South Africa, Ruda serves as a manager, and co-owner at DRIVEN, an enterprise dedicated to bringing physical and mental health education to online schools. DRIVEN plays a role in enhancing academic performance through educational stimulation programs, using data analytics to design support strategies that promote student success within a distance learning environment. She is also working on an initiative to bring space education programs to the South African youth through international and local connections. This initiative aims to bring global knowledge into a local environment for the purpose of integration and growth within the space education industry in South Africa.

Before her current roles, Ruda was involved in educational outreach programs throughout South Africa as a project manager, educator, and content specialist. In this capacity, she managed educational consulting projects across various schools, taught mathematics, and created content and resources for teachers.

With a commitment to continuous learning and improvement, Ruda emphasises the importance of technological integration in education, ensuring that students are equipped with modern skills and fresh ideas. Her enthusiasm for STEAM education is evident in her efforts to inspire both youth and future educators. Through her work, Ruda aspires to make a lasting impact on students and educators alike, nurturing the next generation of thinkers and innovators.

Bev believes that space and space exploration are the future of humanity and it is our responsibility as educators to prepare our students to work in such an environment. Whether they learn a trade, become engineers, accountants, doctors and even geologists, knowing that the future will see humans as being the first interplanetary species will prepare them for the evolving world in which we live. Making STEM and STEM activities accessible to ALL students, so that ALL can be prepared has been a passion of mine since Bev began her teaching career.

Gregory Pitonza is a dedicated and accomplished educator with a rich background in technology education and interdisciplinary studies. He holds a PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies with a specialization in Expressive Design Process from Union Institute & University, where his dissertation focused on the need for hands-on expression. Gregory also earned an MA in Social Ecology from Goddard College, with a thesis on sustainable environmental technology and individualized learning in community-based classrooms. His academic journey began with a BS in Technology Education from SUNY College at Oswego, supplemented by various coursework in electronics and gender equity.

Gregory’s professional career spans several decades, during which he has made significant contributions to technology education at various educational institutions. Currently, he serves as the STEM Ranch Camp Director at Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation in Brant Lake, NY, a role he has held since 2016. In addition, he is a conference presenter and workshop instructor, a substitute teacher for the Canajoharie Central School District, and a program volunteer for One Giant Leap Australia. Gregory is also an author, working on projects such as “FINAO / FIANO, Failure Is Not An Option, and A Necessary Opportunity.”

His extensive teaching experience includes positions at Canajoharie Middle School, Stuart M. Townsend Middle School, Owen D. Young Central School, Dolgeville Middle and James A. Green High School, and Harry Hoag Middle School. Throughout his career, Gregory has taught a wide range of technology education courses, from introductory technology to architectural drawing and materials processing. He has also been actively involved in extracurricular activities, serving as a student council advisor, technology club advisor, and co-organizer of the Recyclable Regatta.

In addition to his work with younger students, Gregory has also contributed to adult education. He taught Adirondack Chair Building courses at Corinth High School and has experience as a student teacher at various schools, including Leighton Elementary School and South Colonie High School. His early career included roles as a substitute technology education teacher and teacher aide.

Gregory’s passion for education extends beyond the classroom. He has been a project leader and classroom flight director for Mission Control in the Classroom, and has presented at the Space Exploration Educators Conference. His presentations, such as “Mission Control – GO for Learning,” highlight his innovative approach to education, using NASA Mission Control as a model for fostering student interest and growth. Gregory has also published articles on topics like STEM education and the Recyclable Regatta, contributing to professional journals and magazines.

Overall, Gregory A. Pitonza’s career is marked by a commitment to hands-on, interdisciplinary learning and a dedication to fostering student growth and community involvement. His diverse experiences and innovative approaches to education make him a valuable asset to any educational institution or program.

Kellie Arenz has been a Middle School Science Teacher in Wisconsin for the last 16 years. She represents Space Center Houston as a Space Exploration Educator Crew member, the Space Foundation as a Teacher Liaison, NASA/JPL as a Solar System Ambassador, and ISS National Lab as a Space Station Ambassador. Kellie is a part of IARPC and also works as an educator ambassador for NASA’s Climate Change initiative. In her spare time, Kellie teaches classes at University of Wisconsin Eau Claire and competes in adventure races throughout the United States.

Pam Kraus is the Career Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator and STEM Consultant at Smoky Hill Education Service Center in Salina, Kansas. As CTE Coordinator Pam writes and administers the federal Perkins Grant for 42 rural Kansas districts in the Smoky Hill Carl Perkins Consortium. In addition, she supports districts with all things related to career and technical education. As a STEM Consultant Pam uses her over 20 years’ experience in the classroom as a high school chemistry and STEM teacher and her passion for making science engaging and understandable. She has also mentored Robotics teams for FIRST and BEST robotics programs and sponsored a STEM Explorers club.

Pam was recently named a Space Foundation International Teacher Liaison and she uses her passion for space exploration to provide opportunities for teachers to incorporate space in their classrooms to create interest, increase motivation, and teach science concepts. Pam has received training through Teachers in Space, Air Camp, US Naval Academy SET Sail STEM Academy, Honeywell Educators’ Space Academy, AMTA Chemistry Modeling, ChemEd, and ASM Materials Science Camp. She has presented to educators from around the world at Space Exploration Educators Conference at Space Center Houston, as well as to science educators at the annual Kansas Association of Teachers of Science conference. She has additional experience with mentor teacher programs, college and career counseling, and grant writing.