Building the STEM Teacher Pipeline: Strategies for Recruitment and Retention Success
Wednesday, June 25 1:00–2:00 p.m. PDT 4:00–5:00 p.m. EDT
Recording available to all who have registered.
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Join us for an insightful panel discussion with education researcher Josh Stewart, PhD, and NSTA STEM specialist Jess Holman as they tackle one of the most pressing challenges in K–12 education: the nationwide shortage of qualified STEM teachers. Our panelists will share research-based approaches and practical solutions for administrators looking to build and sustain a supportive environment for STEM teachers.
Join us to discuss
✔Innovative recruitment strategies to attract diverse, qualified STEM candidates amid a competitive job market
✔Proven retention approaches that create supportive environments where STEM educators thrive
✔Professional development models that strengthen teacher competency while reducing burnout
✔Effective mentorship programs that support new STEM teachers through their critical first years
✔Building school-university partnerships that create powerful pathways into STEM teaching careers
Bring your questions or submit them ahead of time for a live Q&A session with our panelists!
Presenters
Josh Stewart, PhD Founder of Rocky Mountain Research & Strategy
Josh Stewart, PhD, is the founder of Rocky Mountain Research & Strategy and an education researcher with over a decade of experience leading initiatives at the intersection of policy, workforce development, and learning innovation. His work has supported school districts, foundations, and federal agencies in designing evidence-based strategies to address challenges like STEM teacher retention, educator pipeline development, and instructional equity. He holds a doctorate in Educational Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado.
Jess Holman STEM Specialist at NSTA
Jess Holman is a STEM specialist at NSTA with extensive experience in curriculum development, assessment design, and professional learning. She supports educators and leaders in implementing high-quality, NGSS-aligned instruction that integrates student sensemaking, equity, and real-world STEM connections. Jess has led national initiatives that elevate STEM identity, career relevance, and inclusive practices, while also designing meaningful assessments that reflect three-dimensional learning. With a background in instructional technology and special education and a passion for practical, student-centered strategies, Jess works to bridge instructional materials, assessment, and educator support in ways that empower all learners to thrive in science and STEM.
Olga Vargas Chief Marketing Officer of Vernier Science Education
Olga Vargas is the Chief Marketing Officer at Vernier Science Education, where she brings over 20 years of experience leading strategy at the intersection of STEM, equity, and classroom impact. A daughter of public school science and math educators and a lifelong advocate for teachers, Olga focuses on practical, scalable solutions that help educators drive real results. Prior to Vernier, she held leadership roles at Texas Instruments, Education Northwest, and New Meridian. She’s valued for her thoughtful approach, a strong sense of partnership, and a deep respect for the work of educators.
