Meet the Team
RAMA BALA
CEO, Chance of Change Lives (CCL-US) and
Executive Director, STEMnetX (a STEM initiative of CCL-US)
Dr. Bala is a distinguished physics professor and researcher. Teaching at major universities across the Northeast, she has always had a passion for helping students find experiential learning opportunities in their respective fields while continuing to educate and mentor.
JAY BALA
Director,Chance of Change Lives (CCL-US)
Director, STEMNetX (a STEM initiative of CCL-US)
Jay Bala oversees the operations of STEMNetX and leads all tech efforts of the organization. She has several years of experience in various technology fields and has a great passion for all things tech.
REBECCA CALLAWAY
Program Manager, STEMNetX (a STEM initiative of CCL-US)
Hailing from Clarksville, TN, and recently transitioning from Fredericksburg, VA, Rebecca brings a strong background in education, having served as an adjunct music instructor at the University of Mary Washington and worked with the Department of Defense Education Activity. Her passions lie at the intersection of education, science, and the arts. With academic degrees in Applied Physics, Music Technology & Performance, she brings a distinctive blend of innovation and creativity to STEMNetX.
BING GAO
Education Consultant and Volunteer
Bing Gao has a Ph.D. in Education. She envisions a world where talent in STEM is defined not by background but by opportunity. She is excited about create pathways to ensure that access is inclusive, transformative, and sustainable for all. Her skill sets include but not limited to Advising & mentorship, Research & analysis, Technology & tools, Communication&collaboration. Motivated by her commitment to education, she draws upon her diverse background to add depth and value to the STEMNetX team!
NATHAN SMITH
VR and ROVER DEV ENGINEERING INTERN
Nathan is a Mechanical & Electrical Engineering Student at the University of Pittsburgh, with a deep passion for AI and Robotics. He is highly skilled in Control Systems Design, Mathematical Modeling and PCB Design. He is currently working on a synergistic model of VR and Rover, which he plans to deploy to high school students which they will use to virtually navigate a rover robot in a VR environment to learn about Mars! Nathan is highly inspired by the work and is dedicated to making his project a success!!