Scientist Visit:
Michelle Skoorka, Ph.D
April 22, 2022
**Book orders due by April 1!
Michelle Skoorka, Ph.D.
Head, Platform Concept Formulation Branch, Code 4522
USW Platforms & Payload Integration Department
Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Division Newport
Dr. Skoorka grew up in New York City. As a kid, she loved to watch TV after school – especially Star Trek. Once she discovered that “Star Ship Captain” may not be a realistic career goal, Michelle decided to look into other space and science related careers. She attended the renowned Bronx High School of Science. After high school, Michelle followed a somewhat unconventional path, working at Tower Records before attending several universities on her journey to discover her true calling.
Today, Dr. Skoorka is the Head of the Platform Concept Formulation Branch, USW Platforms & Payload Integration Department at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center – basically, she gets to work designing submarines! Prior to this role, she held several other positions with the Navy, including working with drones and overseeing STEM internships at the Office of Naval Research.
Michelle currently lives in Rhode Island with her rescued Newfoundland dog Daisy. In her spare time, she loves to exercise, travel, hang out with Daisy, and NEVER misses a chance to get an ice cream.
Recently, Dr. Skoorka has been featured in a children’s book, Who Is A Scientist by Laura Gehl. The book features a diverse group of people who work in many different fields of science.
Daisy
Windham Academy is excited to welcome Dr. Skoorka on April 22. She will be reading the book and holding a Q&A session with grades K-3. Grades 4-6 will be spending some additional time learning about Dr. Skoorka’s unconventional path to find her career and discussing how ANYONE can be a scientist. Stay tuned for details and other fun activities planned around the visit.
The book will be available for sale in our online store. Books will be delivered during Dr. Skoorka's visit and can be autographed. Each book will also have a personalized bookplate signed by the author, Laura Gehl. 20% of the proceeds from the book sale will be used to fund STEM materials for our school.
**Book orders due by April 1!