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Educator–Industry Matchmaking: Connecting Classrooms & Careers

At the heart of this initiative is a regional directory that makes it easy for educators to identify and connect with professionals across key industries. This tool will spark new collaborations, give students authentic real-world insights, and help build meaningful ties between schools, careers, and community.

By fostering these connections, we:

  • Enrich classroom learning with authentic industry expertise

  • Create interactive career exploration opportunities

  • Strengthen awareness of essential employability skills

Teija Sprinzyk

Human Resources

Please contact kwurster@cgesd.k12.or.us for a STEM Hub introduction.

Hood River County

Summer internships and Seasonal employment opportunities available.

Job description:

High School (9-12), Middle School (6-8)

Preferred audience:

Government & Public Administration

Career areas:

Engagement preference:

Host an Intern, Career Fair Participation

Heather Land

Communications Specialist

Please contact kwurster@cgesd.k12.or.us for a STEM Hub introduction.

Wasco Electric Cooperative

The cooperative is responsible for the distribution of electricity across its service territory, including the construction, operation, and maintenance of electrical infrastructure. This work includes system upgrades, vegetation management, outage restoration, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Job description:

High School (9-12)

Preferred audience:

Management & Administration, Engineering

Career areas:

Engagement preference:

Guest Speaker, Virtual Guest Speaker, Host Job Shadow, Career Fair Participation, Conduct Mock Interviews or Skills Assessment

Elika Paki

Park Ranger 3

Please contact kwurster@cgesd.k12.or.us for a STEM Hub introduction.

Oregon State Parks and Recreation Dept.

I steward the interpretive programs for the Oregon State Parks of the Columbia River Gorge, as well as public out reach and tribal relations.

Job description:

Elementary (K-5), High School (9-12), Middle School (6-8)

Preferred audience:

Food & Natural Resources, Hospitality & Tourism, Education & Training, Government & Public Administration, Architecture & Construction

Career areas:

Engagement preference:

Guest Speaker, Virtual Guest Speaker, Host a School Group, Career Fair Participation, Project-Based Collaboration, Conduct Mock Interviews or Skills Assessment, Participate in CTE Advisory Committee

Michael Leslie

Software Engineer & Technologist

I’m a software engineer and technologist who designs and builds real-world imaging and data systems. I enjoy helping middle school and high school students understand how classroom subjects like math, science, and problem-solving connect to real technology and careers. With a little notice, I’m available to support virtual classroom visits, training sessions, or Q&A discussions on topics ranging from programming and data science to imaging, drones, and modern computing systems. I’m also happy to collaborate with students on projects by offering guidance, answering questions, and helping them think through technical challenges.

Job description:

Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12)

Preferred audience:

Food & Natural Resources, Engineering, Information Technology, Science & Research

Career areas:

Engagement preference:

Guest Speaker, Virtual Guest Speaker, Host an Intern, Co-Teach a Lesson, Career Fair Participation, Project-Based Collaboration, Conduct Mock Interviews or Skills Assessment, Participate in CTE Advisory Committee

Bryanna Bui

Strategic Communications Specialist II

Please contact kwurster@cgesd.k12.or.us for a STEM Hub introduction.

HNTB/Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Replacement

Liaison for the project and public communications and outreach. Manages @hoodriverbridge social media strategy, content creation and platforms. Coordinates community outreach and engagement. Supports website content development and updates. Organizes community events and meetings.

Job description:

Elementary (K-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12)

Preferred audience:

Management & Administration, Food & Natural Resources, Sales & Service, Hospitality & Tourism, Engineering, Government & Public Administration, Architecture & Construction, Maritime

Career areas:

Engagement preference:

Guest Speaker, Virtual Guest Speaker, Career Fair Participation, Project-Based Collaboration

Questions? 

Contact Kate Wurster: kwurster@cgesd.k12.or.us 

Columbia Gorge STEM Hub

Columbia Gorge Education Service District (CGESD)

400 E Scenic Dr #207

The Dalles, OR 97058

gorgeSTEM.org

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Columbia Gorge STEM Hub, a program of Columbia Gorge Education Service District, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation or disability in its programs and activities. For more information and inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies see CGESD Title IX Information.

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