Rachelle Pedersen is a Graduate Research Assistant and Instructor of Record for the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Culture. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Engineering Science (Concentration Technology Education) from Colorado State University and a Masters of Science in Curriculum & Instruction (Emphasis Science Education) from Texas A&M University. Her research focuses on motivation and social influences (e.g. mentoring and identity development) that support underrepresented students in STEM fields. She is also the Outreach Chair for the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program at Texas A&M and coordinates in-person and virtual STEM programs, bridging the gap between K-12 and colleges. Prior to graduate school, Rachelle taught high school technology and engineering education (Robotics/Engineering, AP Computer Science, and Video Production) and advised several after-school programs (e.g., Technology Student Association, Girls in STEM, Stage Crew).