Nikki joined PAST in 2021, excited to collaborate with an innovative community of educators dedicated to designing meaningful, real-world learning opportunities for youth.

She began her educator journey through Teach For America South Carolina, where she taught high school Mathematics and Engineering and discovered her passion for helping students—especially those underrepresented in STEM—unlock their full potential. She later earned her Master’s in Education, further deepening her commitment to educational equity. Nikki also spent a year teaching Engineering and Math at Metro Early College High School in Columbus, Ohio. Throughout her time in the classroom and working with schools, she has coached FIRST Robotics teams and launched the “STEMinists Program,” introducing hundreds of middle school girls in the community to STEM pathways.

Driven by a commitment to equity and global understanding, Nikki served in the Peace Corps in Namibia, where she taught Mathematics and English, trained volunteers and educators, helped establish a school library, and actively participated in the Gender Awareness in Namibia committee to support equity-focused initiatives. 

Now serving as the Director of Workforce Development and Columbus EcosySTEM at PAST, Nikki draws on her diverse experiences to tackle educational and workplace inequities. She is committed to equipping students with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to pursue fulfilling and impactful careers.