Coraline – 2025 Northeast Region Rising Star

 
***

Her cradle-to-career journey

What was an important learning experience you had before you started school?
I have lived on a small farm my entire life. Growing up, I was always looking for ways to make farm chores more efficient. I enjoyed thinking through problems and testing simple changes to improve how things got done. That early focus on practical problem-solving is what first drew me to STEM.

Who is the teacher or mentor who sparked your interest in STEM?
My older brother Andy first sparked my interest in STEM. When we were young, I used to watch him build with his snap circuit kits. I thought it was the coolest thing. Later, he joined the high school robotics team and would come home talking about what they were building. I joined the team as soon as I could. He was always curious, focused, and happy to explain things or let me help, which made STEM feel exciting and possible. His encouragement has really stuck with me.

What are you thinking about doing after high school?
After high school, I’m interested in studying civil engineering because I want to design practical solutions that improve everyday life. I’ve always found bridges and big buildings fascinating, and I want to be part of creating structures like that. To explore this path, I’ve been taking extra math and science courses, joined the local robotics team, and attended a women in STEM networking event at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories.

Pursuing a career in engineering

Before she wanted to be a civil engineer, Coraline just wanted to get her chores done. She shares how problem-solving on her family’s farm and joining her school’s robotics team shaped her plans for after high school.

Nominated for her drive

“Cora is a bright young woman who, as a freshman, earned her way to captain of the robotics team, an otherwise all-boys team. She joined this team as a middle school student, quickly becoming integral to its success. This is not the only organization Cora is involved in; she has been a part of the Happy Hooves 4H Club for as long as she could ride. At the Palouse Empire Fair and Rodeo this year, she served as the flag runner, bolting around the arena on her horse with Old Glory flapping overhead. If these too clubs didn’t keep her busy enough, Cora is a avid member of the local Girl Scout troop, racking up skills and community service to serve her own and the community interests in becoming a better place.

Watching Cora work with her teammates, classmates, and clubmates has allowed me to see her incredible grit while still exuding incredibly mature leadership skills.”

—Coraline’s teacher, veterinary science

The Washington STEM Rising Star Awards encourage young women and trans and nonbinary youth to embrace STEM learning in ways that will support their education, career, and community.

Meet all of the 2025 Washington STEM Rising Stars!