Meet the STEM Staff

Samantha Miller, M.A.

STEM Center Director

With over eight years of diverse teaching experience in K-8 classrooms across Pueblo, Sam has developed a deep passion for blending Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) into engaging, hands-on learning experiences. As a former media specialist and classroom teacher, she transformed an elementary media center by establishing a dynamic Makerspace, providing students with the opportunity to explore robotics, engineering, and creative problem-solving. Her innovative approach to education has earned her a reputation for fostering curiosity and critical thinking in young learners. 

Now serving as the Director of PCC’s STEM Center, Sam helps the coordination of STEM education programs at Pueblo Community College, including assisting with the Space Grant and the college’s STEAM Club at the Pueblo Campus. In this role, she is committed to expanding opportunities for students to explore STEM fields, encouraging a new generation of innovators and leaders. Her aim is to fully direct and coordinate these programs within the STEM Center, and continuing to grow the impact of STEAM education within the community. 

With a master’s degree in Curriculum Design for STEAM Education and a wealth of hands-on experience, Sam brings a unique blend of leadership, creativity, and expertise to her work. Her dedication to education extends beyond the classroom, as she actively collaborates with colleagues and students to cultivate a vibrant learning environment that promotes exploration and discovery. 

Outside of their professional role, Sam enjoys spending time with her family and their beloved “fur babies,” as well as pursuing personal art and crafting projects that allow them to express their creativity and passion for lifelong learning. 

Candice Minerich

STEM EDGE Grant Director

Candice Minerich is the STEM Outreach Coordinator and STEM Edge Grant Director at Pueblo Community College, where she brings science to life for students and the community through engaging, hands-on experiences. With a strong background in biology and psychology, Candice is passionate about connecting people with the natural world and inspiring curiosity in STEM fields.

Before joining PCC, Candice worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife at Lake Pueblo State Park, where she served as an Interpretive Naturalist and License Agent Coordinator. Her work focused on public education, wildlife conservation, and fostering a deeper appreciation for Colorado’s diverse ecosystems.

Candice holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Colorado State University – Pueblo and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. Her interdisciplinary background supports her mission to make science accessible, exciting, and relevant to learners of all ages.

Outside of work, Candice enjoys mountain biking, off-roading, and exploring the outdoors with her husband and three children. Her love for nature and adventure fuels her dedication to STEM outreach and environmental education.

Miranda Caro, M.A.

Academic Career Expert STEM Programs Pueblo & Fremont Campus

Miranda is an extremely outgoing individual who thrives in environments where she can positively influence people to reach their goals and dreams. She has a BA in English and is currently pursuing her MA in English Literature. Additionally, she also briefly lived in DC where she was an intern for the Smithsonian Libraries housed in the National Museum of Natural History. Miranda's strengths lie in her ability to communicate with others, and her optimistic mindset. She is a firm believer in developing the Pueblo community through education. This mindset has led her to establish a career within higher education with experience as a paraprofessional, college preparedness instructor (University Tracks Centers Coordinator), and now an Academic Career Expert for STEM Edge.  

Despite her love for classic literature, Miranda also has a passion for modern pop culture including, but not limited to: Star Wars, Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, Anime, and KPop. 

Kendall Kin

Academic Career Expert STEM Program Pueblo Campus

Kendall is a highly motivated person who enjoys helping others succeed. Her strengths lie in per ability to problem solve and to build interpersonal relationships. She has a BS in Biology from the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA. Kendall started out in Virginia and spent a few years in Phoenix, Arizona before finally putting down roots here in Pueblo. Before working here, she spent some time as an analytical chemist and a food scientist. Her favorite subjects are botany, archaeology, and evolution, but her true passion is learning and helping others learn. She’s excited to bring her love of science to the students at PCC!

In her free time, Kendall loves hanging out with her fiancé, Mason, and her two cats, as well as gardening, baking, reading, knitting, and exploring the outdoors.

Melissa Watters, M.S.

Melissa Watters is the STEM academic and career expert (ACE) at the PCC Southwest campus. Originally from Chicago, Melissa earned her B.S. in civil engineering from the University of Illinois and her M.S. in environmental engineering from Northwestern University. After working as an engineer for Argonne National Laboratory, Melissa realized that she most enjoyed engaging students and inspiring the next generations of STEM professionals, so she changed careers and became a math and science educator, incorporating the engineering design process into all her classes. In the last several years before joining PCC Southwest, Melissa found another passion in helping students understand their strengths and interests as they relate to careers and helping them find their way on their career paths. You can see why STEM ACE really is the perfect job for her! Melissa lives in Dolores with her husband and two dogs. They’re often found exploring the beautiful Southwest landscape together.