Introduction
As a passionate and certified STEM educator, I am dedicated to amplifying diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within the STEM community. Currently serving as a Science Communications Specialist at Science Systems and Applications, Inc. (SSAI), I engage in social media outreach initiatives aimed at promoting STEM awareness. Additionally, I have the privilege of hosting an SSAI podcast, where I showcase the incredible talents of our esteemed employees, fostering inspiration and empowerment in the field.
About Jason Dietrich
As an individual with hyperlexia, a form of autism, my early academic life was a sea of uncertainty. I experienced exclusion, feelings of inferiority, and, very unfortunately, inequity within the classroom. Then, I found my island: it was STEM education! A science teacher introduced me to astronomy, physics, and environmental sciences, and I was hooked! The academic benefits were excellent, but the personal, social, and emotional effects were even more extraordinary! I found that the island quickly became connected to multiple highways of opportunity! I believe it is imperative to instill the importance of critical thinking, problem-solving, and the exchanging of ideas between others. I have found the best way to accomplish these goals is through STEM educational activities. It is imperative to build relationships and establish new connections that form a support framework for effective STEM education and the development of life-long learners. The exchange of ideas results in a blending and subsequent curriculum improvement, which benefits all STEM learners. I am seeking opportunities to ensure all global citizens can master the life-changing skills STEM education offers. As an educator, I have helped to bridge the gap to increase participation in STEM career pathways. I intend to continue to increase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in STEM that benefits our society as a whole. This approach ensures that individuals with a strong foundation in STEM literacy are well-equipped to contribute to innovation, scientific discoveries, and emerging technologies, thereby preparing them for the future. Developing STEM-based skills is critical to ensure leadership in innovation and STEM literacy. As an educator, I have helped to bridge the gap to increase participation in STEM career pathways. I am very experienced and credentialed in scaffolding and the use of research-based effective practices in the delivery of STEM content and presentations. I have exceptional technological skills involving social media, digital learning, data manipulation activities, webpages, and the development of presentations. I operate with integrity, transparency, and complete accountability, working as an individual or as a collaborative member of a team. I possess exceptional organizational skills and multi-tasking abilities. I have been mentored by a current VASFA STEM Engagement Specialist, Geoff Bergen, and I am the Principal Designer of a STEM Game Learning Module that has been used by the STEM Academy of the Virginia Spaceflight Academy, affiliated with NASA’s Goddard Space Center. In addition, I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Education focusing on Curriculum and Instruction (STEM focus) with the NASA Endeavor Certificate. The next best thing to obtaining knowledge, is to pass it on. As someone who currently works as a Science Communications Specialist at SSAI, the sky’s the limit! I can use my imagination and creative abilities in ways I never even knew were possible! I’ve always dreamed to work and support the work that many global organizations are doing, and you can too! I’m currently embarking upon yet another highway of opportunity, helping to take STEM to new heights for the next generation of youth learners!