Kathy is completing a second bachelor’s degree in Engineering Physics at the University of Colorado, Boulder. She’s worked on various research and engineering projects such as studying Antarctica’s glaciers with world leading scientists, assembling small CubeSats with CU’s Space Grant, and researching Icy Moons at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Additionally, Kathy’s interests in innovation, sustainable transportation, and entrepreneurship led her to co-found ShineOn, a company developing safer & smarter products for bike commuters, selling hundreds of bike lights to date. She is also the CEO & founder of a second company that aims to facilitate the commercialization and growth of the satellite industry, with angel investment support & partnerships being developed with local companies. Kathy’s first degree in Political Science from the University of California, Berkeley, and background as a middle school teacher, inspire her to engage in socially conscious work and promote diversity for those underrepresented in decision-making environments. She has developed programs & spaces for Womxn of Color in STEM at multiple schools as well as networks for Latinx professionals in Colorado. Kathy hopes that through her outreach she can empower more women and underrepresented individuals interested in space, STEM, or entrepreneurship to pursue and achieve their goals.

“I’m incredibly grateful & honored to be the recipient of the University of Colorado Boulder’s SGFF Scholarship this year. The opportunity to network & collaborate with other young professionals who are passionate about space is beyond exciting! I can’t wait to share all I learn with my peers at CU!”