Get ready for an unforgettable day of innovation, inspiration, and networking at the STEM in Action Conference, hosted at Thomson Reuters! This exciting event brings together industry experts, thought leaders, and tech enthusiasts to dive into the hottest trends shaping the future of technology.

Date:  Friday, April 11, 2025

Time: 9AM-2:30PM @ Thomson Reuters in Eagan

Location: 2900 Ames Crossing Rd Suite 100, Eagan, MN 55121

Who can come: All Middle & High School Students (7th-12th Graders).

Transportation: Either schools or parents will need to provide transportation

Note: Students are required to secure school release time to attend this educational event

Join us for a dynamic day of four action-packed tracks:

- STEM in Action HCI Track: Explore the groundbreaking intersection of human-computer interaction and real-world applications. Discover how cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing industries and improving lives.

 - Careers in Tech Track: Whether you're looking to break into tech or take your career to the next level, gain invaluable insights from industry professionals who are shaping tomorrow’s workforce. Learn about the best opportunities and strategies to succeed in tech.

- AI Track: Get an inside look at the future of artificial intelligence, from machine learning to automation. Hear from AI experts about the latest trends and how AI is transforming industries from healthcare to finance.

- Cool Tech Track: From virtual reality to robotics, dive into the coolest, most innovative technologies that are changing the world. Get inspired by the next generation of game-changing inventions and developments.

Lunch will be provided, giving you the chance to connect with fellow students and professionals. This event is a partnership involving the Minnesota Technology Association's SPARCS program, FIRST Robotics Team 2220 and Thomson Reuters, bringing together a diverse group of experts dedicated to advancing tech and inspiring the next generation of innovators.

Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the future of tech. Sign up today and prepare for a day full of learning, collaboration, and exciting discoveries!

Register here: Stem in Action Conference

Sessions

Robert Highet & Amy Alexander - Innovative Device Development : Mayo Clinic Engineering (Human-Computer Interaction Track, Session 1)

Abstract:

At Mayo Clinic, our engineering team is dedicated to creating innovative medical devices and non-medical products that improve patient care. In our presentation, "Innovation in Device Development - Mayo Clinic Engineering," we will show how our engineers, designers, machinists, project managers, and clinicians work together to develop practical and impactful medical devices. From initial ideas through prototypes to final products, we use the latest technology to solve real healthcare problems. Join us to see how this work is making a difference in medicine and patient outcomes.

Bios:

Robert Highet, AAS

Robert (Robbie) Highet is a Mechanical Engineering Design Technician for the Mechanical Development Unit within the Division of Engineering (DOE) and the DOE Additive Manufacturing Facility Coordinator. He joined the Division of Engineering in 2017 after Serving in the Army as a Forward Observer and Jumpmaster in the 82nd Airborne Division. Robbie is responsible for Mechanical and Additive Manufacturing Design and Documentation in support of the Division of Engineering and its Biomechanical Machine Shop. Robbie is also the Division of Engineering’s Additive Manufacturing Facility Coordinator. Robbie received his AAS in Computer Aided Design/Drafting from Rochester Community and Technical College. He also has attained several certifications for Additive Manufacturing Design and Production. He came to Mayo after working in the construction field as a laborer, painter and architectural designer/drafter. Outside of work Robbie enjoys spending time with his family and friends. Robbie enjoys hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and riding motocross. He also spends time as a staff member of Hometown Hero Outdoors, where they focus on reintegration for Military, Law Enforcement and Veterans through the therapy of outdoor recreation.

Amy Alexander, MS

Amy Alexander is Unit Head of Mechanical Development and Applied Computational Engineering within Mayo Clinic’s Division of Engineering (DOE). In this role, she bridges the medical device development and additive manufacturing (3D printing) capabilities of the DOE with the needs of the clinical practice. Amy is past Chair of the Society of Manufacturing Healthcare Additive Manufacturing Technical Advisory Team and a long-standing member of the Radiological Society of North America's 3D Special Interest Group. Amy is a frequent co-author of medical 3D printing peer-reviewed papers, and long-term reviewer for Springer’s 3D Printing in Medicine Journal. She serves as a member of Biomedical Engineering Industrial Advisory Committees for multiple universities and is a frequent lecturer on medical 3D Printing. In 2019, she was recognized as one of 14 international recipients of the SME Outstanding Young Manufacturing Engineer (OYME) award. She holds certificates in Additive Manufacturing from MIT and SME. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering and a Master of Science in Engineering Management from MSOE. In her spare time, Amy enjoys reading, painting, nature walks with her three dogs, and exploring different scratch food prep and cooking techniques.

Dr. Brett Barney - Bioproducts Engineering: The implications in the climate change industry, social justice, and microbiology (Careers in Tech Track, Session 1)

Abstract:

The world of bioproducts engineering has wide implications: in the climate change industry, in social justice, and in microbiology. Through this event, Dr. Brett Barney hopes to spread awareness about microbial engineering and its effects on the future of the science and technological industry.

Bio:

Dr. Brett Barney is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering and Director of Graduate Studies of the Microbial Engineering (MicE) and Bioproducts and Biosystems, Science Engineering and Management (BBSEM) graduate programs at the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities. He received his Bachelor of Science from Utah State University in Professional Chemistry in 1993, during which time he did two years of undergraduate research at the Utah Water Research Laboratory, working on projects in bioremediation of hazardous waste sites. He spent six years in industry working in the medical device industry for a company in Ogden, Utah, which makes dialysis equipment and products. While in industry, Dr. Barney’s job experience included a number of years as an analytical chemist, before spending several years doing research and development in polymer chemistry and process engineering. His various titles included technician, senior technician, research chemist, and finally the fiber laboratory supervisor. He returned to his graduate studies in 1999 and received his Doctorate from Arizona State University in 2003, where he took part in an interdisciplinary program in biophotonics. He did his graduate work in the laboratory of Professor Wilson Francisco. His thesis focused on the study of various metalloproteins. He did his post-doctoral work as a USDA fellow in the laboratory of Professor Lance Seefeldt in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Utah State University. He became a Research Assistant Professor at Utah State University in 2006 and was the Science Operations Manager for the Utah State University Energy Lab in 2009, before starting his own laboratory at the University of Minnesota. He currently teaches courses, manages a laboratory of graduate and undergraduate students and consults part-time for several companies and organizations.

Dr Patrick Wagstrom - Computational Thinking: A Superpower for Everyone (AI Track, Session 1)

Abstract:

This talk explores the concept of computational thinking, defined as the process of breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable components, recognizing patterns, focusing on relevant information, and formulating step-by-step solutions. Key aspects include decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking. The presentation will illustrate these principles through real-world applications, particularly in large-scale AI systems and document processing, highlighting how these systems utilize computational thinking to enhance efficiency. Examples will demonstrate the practical use of decomposition in handling massive document sets, pattern recognition in identifying legal trends, abstraction for efficient data management, and algorithmic thinking in developing automated tools that drastically reduce manual labor for professionals.

Bio:

For over 25 years, Patrick Wagstrom has been working at the forefront of large-scale, data-centric systems and AI/ML. His expertise spans research, development, and management of AI solutions across diverse sectors, including finance, telecom, technology, industrial research, and retail. From intelligent chatbot frameworks to comprehensive machine learning platforms, and even a food truck powered by generative AI, his work is characterized by deep problems and large amounts of data that push the boundaries of what is possible. As an AI Architect at Thomson Reuters, he is shaping the future of AI-driven systems, focusing on autonomous agents capable of planning, reasoning, and executing complex tasks. He holds a Ph.D. from Carnegie Mellon University and currently resides in "the Basketball Center of the World", which is also known as rural Connecticut.

Brianna McCullough - Coming Soon (Cool Tech Track, Session 1)

Abstract:

Coming Soon.

Bio:

Brianna McCullough is a computer scientist and leader conquering dynamic duality as an Infrastructure Program Manager at Google where she leads complex data center programs including full lifecycle management of new product introductions to support machine learning and artificial intelligence.

Brianna's dedicated discipline and knowledge has led her to captivate audiences at Google Developers Fest, Ernst and Young, Afrotech and so many more. Her engineering milestones earned her the Minnesota Pioneer Women in Tech award in 2017 and a Rising Star in Engineering in 2023. She is a graduate of both the University of Southern California and Michigan State University.

Matt Crawford - HCI and Innovation (Human-Computer Interaction Track, Session 2)

Abstract:

Every year, thousands of new products, services, and experiences are introduced, yet up to 95% of them fail. How is it possible that only 5% of innovations manage to survive their first encounter with users? The answer often lies in the disconnect between what organizations create and what users actually want or need. In this talk, we’ll explore how Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) can bridge that gap. We’ll discuss the human-centered principles and practices that can help us create innovations that not only meet users’ needs but also resonate with them deeply—changing the way they live and work for the better.

Bio:

Matt Crawford is an Assistant Professor of Practice in the Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) program at Iowa State University where he teaches courses on innovation, entrepreneurship, and the ethical and social implications of technology. Prior to his work at Iowa State, Matt led product management, growth, and user experience teams at Mural, Workiva, and Granular. He’s passionate about bridging the gap between theory and practice and creating products and experiences that improve the way people live and work.

Merine Thomas - AI Solutions @ TR (AI Track, Session 2)

Abstract:

A session that will explore and experience the AI solutions we have created at Thomson Reuters for our customers. The audience will take away some insight about real-world applications of AI and ML and how it helps our customers.

Bio:

Merine Thomas is a seasoned engineer and leader in AI and ML, currently serving as the Director of Research Engineering at TR Labs, leading a team to deliver AI solutions for Westlaw. With over 18 years of hands-on experience in AI and ML research and development, she has been at the forefront of creating transformative solutions. She has led the development of cutting-edge AI capabilities across diverse sectors, including legal, finance, healthcare, and social media. Her expertise not only encompasses the technical aspects of AI and software engineering but also delves into the practical implications of these technologies in the real world. Her work is characterized by a commitment to building robust software solutions that enhance user experience and tackle complex challenges. Her passion for AI-driven products has only intensified through witnessing the profound impact her work has on TR's customers, inspiring her to push boundaries and explore new horizons in technology.

Stacy Diederich - Coming Soon (Cool Tech Track, Session 2)

Abstract:

Coming Soon.

Bio:

Stacy Diederich is an IT Director at Donaldson Company, where she leads up the Business Enablement team which includes IT Finance, Vendor Management, ServiceNow, Power Platforms and SharePoint.  

Stacy began her career at Donaldson in 2006 as a Credit and Collections intern; over the next 2 years Stacy maintained different internships within the accounting team at Donaldson. Stacy graduated in 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Accounting and began her full-time career at Donaldson within the Internal Audit team. Stacy held various roles within the Accounting and Finance teams before transitioning into management within the IT team in 2019.

Outside of work, Stacy loves to spend time with her husband and 2 kids (8 & 10). She is a youth basketball coach and loves watching/playing sports.

Dr. Lana Yarosh - Undistrupting Families through HCI: Case Study and Ethical Considerations, Session 3; Panel Discussion)

Abstract:

What if technology could do more than just connect us—what if it could make us feel together even when we’re miles apart? In this talk, I explore how Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) approaches may work to reshape the way families stay connected. I'll use a case study of the ShareTable—a system designed to help parents and kids interact in more natural, engaging ways—to show how thoughtful design can go beyond screens and notifications to enable connection. This case study will also serve as a lens for examining how even well-intentioned technologies raise important ethical questions—reminding us that designing for connection doesn’t exempt us from considering the consequences of what we build and how we build it.

Bio:

Svetlana “Lana” Yarosh is an Associate Professor in the Computer Science & Engineering Department at the University of Minnesota, and one of the faculty in the GroupLens Research Center. Her research in HCI focuses on embodied interaction in social computing systems. Lana is currently most proud of graduating her first batch of amazing PhD students, being a writer for CrashCourse AI, and being recognized for her contributions to undergraduate education with a Horace T. Morse Award. Lana has two Bachelors of Science from University of Maryland (in Computer Science and Psychology) and a Ph.D. in Human-Centered Computing from Georgia Institute of Technology.

Katie Opheim - Lessons from a Programmer Who Hated Programming (And How She Ended Up Loving It) (Career in Tech Track, Session 3; Panel Discussion)

Abstract:

This presentation explores the journey of a programmer who began her career with an aversion to coding but ultimately developed a profound love for it. Through her story, we uncover five essential lessons that catalyzed her transformation. These valuable insights include:

• If You Think Something Would Be Cool, Go Do It - Emphasizing the importance of taking initiative and seizing opportunities that spark curiosity and excitement.

• Get To Know People - Highlighting the significance of building relationships and networking.

• Passion is Unnecessary - Challenging the notion that passion is a prerequisite for success or a career.

• The People Matter… A Lot! - Acknowledging the critical role that supportive colleagues and mentors play in one’s professional journey.

• Find and Create Opportunities - Encouraging proactive behavior in seeking out and crafting new opportunities for growth and development.

Through these lessons, attendees will gain practical strategies to navigate their own paths in choosing a career and major.

Bio:

Katie is a senior software engineer at Mural which is a startup in Silicon Valley. She works on building out integrations and making app and tools such as a newly implemented presentation tool. She previously was a software engineer at Target.

Katie loves connecting with others, helping others achieve their goals, continuing to learn, and bringing a sense of organization to everything that she does. Her passion is using technology to make the world a better place. She accomplishes this goal by writing amazing code, running community outreach events, and bringing a positive attitude with me wherever she goes.

Dr Isabelle Moulinier - Getting familiar with Artificial Intelligence (AI Track, Session 3)

Abstract:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a transformative technology, a bit like electric was over a hundred years ago. AI will significantly shape future careers and daily lives - even for jobs that don't seem directly tech-related. Whether in medicine, business, sports, art, or teaching, AI tools are becoming integral to everyday work; AI also influences how we communicate, think, create. This presentation is an introduction to AI basics demonstrating how it can be used. It is intended to help students make informed decisions about using AI tools, while navigating important questions about ethical AI use and challenges.

Bio:

Isabelle Moulinier fell into Artificial Intelligence by accident during grad school and has not looked back ever since. She's held applied research roles at IBM and Thomson Reuters (TR) and data science roles at Capital One, moving from individual contributions to technical leadership. In her last role, she led a group of AI scientists and engineers across the US, Canada and Europe, all working on TR legal and tax research products. During her time at TR, she also organized and volunteered at tech summer camps, coder dojos, and demo

sessions during "Bring a Kid to Work" events. She remains active in the research community, currently chairing the SIGIR 2025 Doctoral Consortium. She holds a Master and PhD from Universite Pierre et Marie Curie in Paris.

Samantha Fritsche- Exploring Tech at Target: Innovation, AI, and Unexpected Careers (Cool Tech Track, Session 3)

Abstract:

Tech careers can take unexpected paths! Join me as I share my journey from studying chemistry to building a career in software engineering and program management at Target. We'll explore some of the cutting-edge technology that powers Target's business, including innovations in AI and more. Whether you're a future engineer, data scientist, or just tech-curious, this talk will expand your view of the exciting opportunities in the world of technology.

Bio:

Samantha Fritsche-McCallum is a Senior Tech Operations Program Manager at Target Tech, where she co-leads change management for GenAI initiatives, including the rollout of Coding Companion tools for Team Members and the launch of Target’s GenAI developer platform.

With a dual degree in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics, Samantha began her career at Target in 2020 as a Software Engineer in the Technology Leadership Program before transitioning to Program Management in 2022. She is passionate about unlocking human potential through inclusive learning and the transformative power of emerging AI technologies.

Outside of work, Samantha loves to spend time with her husband and three dogs. She is a hobbyist 3D modeler and animator, and is currently building a personal project in Unreal Engine.

Dr. Bo Hu (Panel Discussion)

Bio:
Dr Bo Hu has a Ph.D. in Biological Systems Engineering from Washington State University and a M.S. in Biochemical Engineering from Beijing University of Chemical Technology. He has a variety of research Interests including Industrial fermentation, Bioprocess development and Waste management. He also has a variety of teaching interests including Kinetics, Principles of Bioprocessing Engineering, Food Fermentation Technology, Engineering Design and Statistics, Mass and Energy Balance and Fluid Mechanics.