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.

Nick Knezevich

Nick Knezevich is the STEM Outreach Coordinator at Pueblo Community College, where he supports outreach initiatives with K–12 schools and community organizations throughout the Pueblo area. In this role, he works to expand access to STEM education by coordinating programs that encourage student engagement, curiosity, and hands-on learning experiences.

Nick earned his Associate of Science from Pueblo Community College and is currently continuing his education toward a Bachelor of Education/Science at Colorado State University Pueblo. His professional interests center on science-based education, community outreach, and the biological sciences. He brings over 14 years of experience supporting informal science education, including volunteer service with the Pueblo Zoo and Dinosaur Ridge.

As a nontraditional student, Nick has spent the past three years advancing within the PCC STEM Center. He began as a work-study student, later served as a biology tutor and peer mentor, and now contributes as a staff member supporting programs funded through the STEM Edge Grant. His experience as both a student and staff member provides valuable insight into student support and program development.

Outside of work, Nick enjoys spending time outdoors, caring for his many animals, and continuing to learn about the natural world and prehistory. He also enjoys creating scientific artwork through drawing and painting, particularly illustrations inspired by dinosaurs and prehistoric life.

Devin Berumen

Devin Berumen is an Administrative Assistant for the STEM EDGE Title III Grant at Pueblo Community College. He supports STEM programs by helping manage grant data, creating reports, coordinating events and travel, and connecting students with campus and community resources. Devin enjoys working behind the scenes to ensure students and faculty have the tools and support they need to succeed.

Before joining PCC, Devin served as a Lead in the Pueblo County Clerk and Recorder’s Motor Vehicle Department, where he trained staff, handled complex customer issues, and supported state systems and processes. This experience strengthened his problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and commitment to public service.

Devin earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, graduating magna cum laude, and is a graduate of Pueblo Health Academy and Central High School. He enjoys combining technology, organization, and teamwork to create positive, student-focused experiences.

Outside of work, Devin enjoys listening to audiobooks, gaming, reading, cooking and baking, and spending time with his family and his dogs. He’s a big fan of Halo, Star Wars, DC and Marvel Comics, Greek mythology, Godzilla, and anime.

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.