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Sandra Roach      

AI Education & Workforce Development Expert; Duke University Researcher; STEM Advocate & Entrepreneurial Leader

Sandra Roach is a dynamic change agent and thought leader in STEM education and AI workforce development. As an Associate of Research in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Duke University and member of the Education and Workforce Development team for the Athena AI Institute, she spearheads initiatives that have impacted over 900+ individuals, with 90% representation from underserved populations.

With over two decades of technical, educational, and entrepreneurial experience, Roach combines her electrical engineering background with a passion for creating inclusive technological futures. She has successfully founded and scaled the Tutoring Tree, providing innovative STEM-based learning activities and supplemental education services to students across diverse communities. As a Life Coach, she enables individuals to set goals, create action plans, and celebrate successes.

Roach has authored "Alina's Options: CAREERS from A to Z," "STEM NAVIGATORS: Pathways to Achievement in Science Technology Engineering & Mathematics" and "30 Day iSCORED! Intimacy Challenge."

With over two decades of technical, educational, and entrepreneurial experience, she is committed to broadening the participation in STEM through outreach, capacity building and collaboration.

Speech Topics


Building STEAM: Integrating Arts into Technical Education

This dynamic session reveals how incorporating arts into STEM creates more engaging and effective learning experiences. Based on Sandra's successful TechArts programs and curriculum development experience, participants will discover:

  • Innovative ways to blend creativity with technical concepts
  • Hands-on activities that make complex topics accessible
  • Techniques for engaging diverse learning styles
  • Strategies for improving student retention and comprehension
  • Methods to develop well-rounded technical professionals

The Future of AI: Creating Inclusive Pathways in Technology

In this compelling presentation, Sandra explores how organizations can build equitable paths into AI and technology careers. Drawing from her work at Duke University's Athena AI Institute, she shares proven strategies for breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for underrepresented groups. Attendees will learn:

  • Practical approaches to developing inclusive AI education programs
  • Strategies for building sustainable diversity initiatives in tech
  • Methods to measure and track inclusion impact
  • Real-world examples of successful pathway programs
  • Tools for creating supportive tech learning environments

P.O.W.E.R. Goals: Strategies for Professional Growth and Success

This motivational session combines Sandra's expertise as a certified life coach with her technical background to provide a unique perspective on professional development. Participants will learn:

  • Proven techniques for setting and achieving ambitious career goals
  • Methods for maintaining work-life balance in demanding roles
  • Strategies for building resilience and overcoming obstacles
  • Approaches to creating sustainable career growth plans
  • Tools for mentoring and lifting others while climbing

From Engineer to Entrepreneur: Navigating Technical Leadership

Sandra shares her journey from electrical engineer to successful business owner and educational leader. This inspiring talk provides actionable insights for technical professionals looking to expand their impact. Participants will gain:

  • Strategies for transitioning from technical roles to leadership
  • Skills for building and scaling educational businesses
  • Techniques for identifying market opportunities
  • Methods for maintaining technical credibility while growing as a leader
  • Frameworks for making strategic business decisions

Engineering Change: Women's Leadership in STEM

In this empowering presentation, Sandra addresses the unique challenges and opportunities for women in STEM fields. Drawing from her two decades of experience, she provides attendees with:

  • Strategies for navigating male-dominated technical environments
  • Techniques for building confidence and assertiveness
  • Methods for creating and sustaining professional support networks
  • Approaches to mentoring the next generation of women in STEM
  • Tools for advocating for equality in technical workplaces

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