Ashley Schaffner started her journey in STEM as a first grade teacher in Blackfoot, Idaho. She spent 7 years teaching there and had the opportunity to serve as team lead, mentor teacher, and technology coordinator for the school. During her time as a first grade teacher, Ashley developed a Computer Science curriculum dedicated to introducing students in grades K-2 to coding and computers. She was able to share this curriculum with other teachers starting in 2018 as a strand provider at i-STEM, a summer Professional Development opportunity hosted by the Idaho STEM Action Center.

In 2019, Ashley decided it was time to move back to her hometown of Pocatello and began teaching 3^rd and 4^th grade at a charter school. At this time she was able to serve as a part of the leadership team, and help guide her team and school through professional development and pandemics operations. After her transition to the EcosySTEM, Ashley continues to serve as Vice Chair on the School Board.

Ashley joined the EcosySTEM in 2021 and has enjoyed her time as Regional Hub Coordinator, where she gets to work with communities, schools, industries, and other dedicated partners to support STEM across her region. She looks forward to the continued growth and partnerships with the EcosySTEM under the leadership of IBE.