Melissa Edwards
About Melissa Edwards
Melissa Edwards is the College Internship Manager at BLUE ORIGIN, with extensive experience in educational programming and a focus on increasing STEM opportunities for under-served students.
Current Role at BLUE ORIGIN
Since 2021, Melissa Edwards has been serving as the College Internship Manager at BLUE ORIGIN, located in Kent, Washington. In this role, she oversees the internship program, aiming to bridge the gap between education and industry for college students pursuing careers in aerospace. Her responsibilities may include coordinating with educational institutions, managing intern development, and ensuring alignment with BLUE ORIGIN's goals.
Previous Experience at The Museum of Flight
Melissa Edwards accumulated significant experience at The Museum of Flight in the Greater Seattle Area. From 2014 to 2021, she was the Director of Aerospace Education, where she was responsible for developing and managing educational programs related to flight and space exploration. Before that, she served as Director of the Washington Aerospace Scholars program from 2008 to 2014, focusing on engaging high school students in STEM education through intensive coursework and mentorship.
Early Career in Education
Melissa Edwards began her career in education as a teacher. She worked at Koblerville Elementary School in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands from 1996 to 1999. She then moved to the Greater Boston Area, teaching at St. Mary's School for one academic year and at the Academy of the Pacific Rim Charter Public School from 2000 to 2005. In 2005, she became Campus Director at Citizen Schools, where she worked for one year.
Educational Background and Expertise
Melissa Edwards holds a BA in History and an MIT in K-12 Education from The Evergreen State College. Her academic background has equipped her with a profound understanding of educational structures and the nuances of community networks in the United States. This foundation has been integral to her success in creating and managing standards-based educational programming aimed at K-12 and post-secondary students.
Focus on STEM and Equity in Education
A key aspect of Melissa Edwards' career has been her focus on integrating current STEM industry trends into educational programming. She has been actively involved in increasing the percentage of underserved students pursuing STEM educational and career pathways through strategic partnerships. Her work emphasizes educational innovations that promote equity for all learners, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds have access to quality STEM education.