About Me

I have a background in chemistry – I did research on air pollution during college and then made skin care products after college. After

Briefly share what you do as part of your job

I work on Target’s Waste Minimization team, where I own the trash, waste audit, and metal recycling programs. I work at a desk at home, but sometimes go into Target stores to see what they’re throwing away and how I can help reduce that. I spend a lot of time working with the service vendors that pick up Target’s trash and recycling

What Inspired You to Explore STEM?

I was always making potions in my bathroom and was good at math and science. When I took my first chemistry class in high school I knew that’s what I wanted to

What Do You Enjoy Most About Your STEM Career?

While I no longer work directly in STEM, my chemistry background has given me a great foundation of knowledge and skills for my newer sustainability career. Critical thinking, analysis, problem solving, attention to detail, and understanding root causes. These skills help me understand new technologies in waste reduction and sustainability.

What is a STEM fact about your field?

An interesting fact about cosmetic chemistry is that science doesn’t always sell. Marketing often tells stories to get people to buy the products, and the cosmetic chemists sometimes have to stand aside on the facts.

Additional Resources

https://www.scconline.org/

https://www.recyclecolorado.org/