About Melissa

I am excited to ignite an interest in engineering design in your children - especially through a biblical worldview. I have a diverse background in agricultural, STEM, and engineering education. I earned my M.S. and Ph.D. from Purdue University, where I will be recognized as a distinguished alumni in September 2025. My academic journey began with an A.A.S. from Rochester Community and Technical College in Equine Science and a B.S. from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls in Animal Sciences and Agribusiness. I have been the Director of STEM Outreach for the Minnesota State Engineering Center of Excellence since 2017 and enjoy the flexibility and creativity of the position. My work primarily focuses on developing project-based activities that engage students in hands-on learning experiences with the intent of creating awareness and inspiring interest in engineering and manufacturing technology career pathways. One of my first tasks in this role was creating the Engineering Machine Design Contest (EMDC), a multi-state program for which I serve as the director. I also serve as the scientific review committee chair for the Southern Minnesota Engineering and Science Fairs. Before my position with Minnesota State, I worked with the 4-H Youth Development programs at Iowa State University and Purdue University. With much support from my husband (Nate) and my parents/in-laws, I manage my work-life balance while homeschooling my two children, Eleanora (6) and Colton (4). I enjoy helping Ella and Colton explore their curiosities around our hobby farm. I recently developed a passion for gardening and am attempting to master the art of growing a healthy bounty of food for my family as we develop our homestead.