Meet the 2024-25 KCGIP Oregon Pathways to Industry Research Careers (OPIRC) mentors. Mentors were selected based on lived experience, past experience with mentorship, and interest in supporting the next-generation of scientists and engineers. Mentors develop their mentorship and leadership skills through formal training and workshops prior to meeting with mentees, and receiving coaching from Stacey York, Sr Director of Professional Development & Workforce Readiness.
Mentors meet with OPIRC mentees on a monthly basis, providing mentorship and advice on building a successful path to an industrial or national lab career. In addition to mentorship, OPIRC mentees are eligible for scholarships, specialized advising, and other career supports.
OPIRC programming is supported through funding from the National Science Foundation and recently awarded Workforce Ready Grant.
| "To be a good scientist, you must be curious. To be a good engineer, you must be a problem-solver. Remember that in your STEM journey, with all of its joys and upheavals, is designed to channel those traits, which I guarantee you have in abundance, toward a mission of improving people's lives. Develop your curiosity and problem-solving, take ownership of your education, and you'll be well on your way to success."
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Keegan Gilds | My PathwayKCGIP Master’s Track: Polymer Science Internship Host: Thermo Fisher Scientific in Hillsboro, OR
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| "Never be afraid of a challenge. Challenges are meant to be overcome. They are how we learn more about ourselves and our peers. Don't hesitate to ask for help and use available resources."
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Leo Nolasco | My PathwayKCGIP Master’s Track: Optical Materials and Devices Internship Host: SAIC
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| “Remain curious and continue to believe in yourself no matter what! You are beyond capable and can accomplish anything you set your mind to, but you don't have to do it alone, know that there are people here to support you along the way.”
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Alyssa Rogers | My PathwayKCGIP Master’s Track: Polymer Science Internship Host: Catalent in San Diego, CA
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| "Remember that every challenge you overcome is a step closer to success, and your unique perspective is an asset in any STEM field. Stay persistent, and don't hesitate to reach out for opportunities; there are many who want to see you succeed."
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Christy Sanchez | My PathwayKCGIP Master’s Track: Optical Materials and Devices Internship Host: MKS in Beaverton, OR
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| "Even when you feel totally overwhelmed, remember that you 're still moving forward! As long as you don't give up, one day you'll find yourself exactly where you want to be."
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Evalyn Smith | My PathwayKCGIP Master's Track: Polymer Science Internship Host: TBD
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| "You can do this! STEM paths may seem daunting, but with ample encouragement, time commitment, and curiosity, you can excel in any field you love. Don't hesitate to ask questions, seek assistance, or collaborate with peers."
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Evan Tizzard | My PathwayKCGIP Master’s Track: Bioinformatics and Genomics Internship Host: TBD
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| "Ask questions and don't be afraid to do it! Science is all about learning and collaborations from others and every question you ask is just an opportunity to learn something."
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Claire Wells | My PathwayKCGIP Master’s Track: Bioinformatics and Genomics Internship Host: TBD
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| "Take the time to connect and build strong relationships with your professors! Don't hesitate to attend office hours or ask for advice - they're often eager to help, especially when they see a student who is motivated and willing to learn. They can provide not only academic support but also mentorship, research opportunities, and connections to internships or jobs. These connections can open doors that might seem out of reach otherwise."
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Lauren Williams | My PathwayKCGIP Master’s Track: Bioinformatics and Genomics Internship Host: TBD
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