Krista Brinchek is an environmental science and education professional with more than 20 years of experience spanning environmental consulting, public education, program development, and community engagement. She currently serves as an Environmental Science Specialist with Wake County Public School System, where she develops environmental literacy and Green STEM programs, builds community partnerships, secures and manages grant funding, and provides professional development for educators. Krista is a licensed Professional Geologist, Certified North Carolina Environmental Educator, and licensed K–12 educator. Her work has been recognized with the EPA Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators, the Burroughs Wellcome Fund Career Award for STEM Teachers, and the North Carolina Environmental Educator of the Year Award. She holds a B.S. in Environmental Science from the University of Vermont and a Master of Arts in Teaching from North Carolina State University. When she is not in the classroom you can find her out hiking with her family anywhere from the mountains to the sea!