André Westhelle

STEM Educator and Advocate

Chicago, Illinois, United States

About

I’m a STEM educator and advocate dedicated to addressing the inequity facing under-served youth. I believe that diversity in STEM isn’t just a matter of fairness - it is the essential engine of better and more inclusive innovation for our society as a whole. I focus on three pillars to drive systemic change: - Intentional Access: Targeting high-quality, free programming, specifically for students typically left on the sidelines. - Collaboration: Forging strategic partnerships to end the isolation of great work and create a unified STEM ecosystem. - Environment: Designing and building physical STEM spaces and curricula that foster a sense of belonging, high-level inquiry and joy. By leveraging Design Thinking and Project-Based Learning, I support students in cultivating the problem-solving skills they need to thrive in an increasingly automated world.

Experience

  • STEM Engagement Director at CBRE
    Dec 2023 - Present · 2 yrs 7 mos

  • Chicago Public Schools (Full-time · 9 yrs 5 mos)
    • STE(A)M Program Specialist
      Oct 2021 - Dec 2023 · 2 yrs 3 mos

    • STEAM Teacher
      Aug 2014 - Oct 2021 · 7 yrs 3 mos