Emily Calandrelli

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Emily Dawn Calandrelli: A Profile in Science Communication

Emily Dawn Calandrelli is a multi-talented American science communicator, engineer, author, and television presenter. With an impressive academic background and a passion for making science accessible to all, she has made significant strides in promoting STEM education, especially among young girls. Here’s a detailed look at Emily’s life, career, and personal interests.

Early Life and Education

• Birthplace: Morgantown, West Virginia
• Birthdate: May 18, 1987
• Age: 37 years old (as of August 2024)
• Parents: Kimberly and Bradley Calandrelli
• Siblings: A brother named Drew, who is a high school teacher

Emily’s journey began in Morgantown, where she grew up with a strong curiosity for how things worked. Her early interest in science was nurtured by her supportive family and a community that valued education.

• Undergraduate Education:
  • Attended West Virginia University
  • Earned a B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering
• Graduate Education:
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
  • M.S. degrees in Aeronautics and Astronautics
  • M.S. degree in Technology and Policy

NASA Internship and Early Career

• NASA Internship:
  • Emily interned at NASA, where she worked on various space exploration and technology projects.
  • Her experience at NASA solidified her interest in space science and engineering.
  • During her internship, she met Tom Franklin, an MIT graduate in Aerospace Engineering, who would later become her husband.

Emily’s time at NASA not only provided her with invaluable experience in the field but also deepened her passion for space exploration. This experience played a significant role in shaping her career as a science communicator.

Career in Science Communication

• Xploration Outer Space (2014):
  • Emily became the host of “Xploration Outer Space,” a part of Fox’s educational block.
  • The show aimed to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers by exploring the wonders of space.
• Bill Nye Saves the World (2017):
  • Emily appeared on Netflix’s “Bill Nye Saves the World,” where she contributed to discussions on various scientific topics.
• Emily’s Wonder Lab (2020):
  • In 2020, Emily hosted “Emily’s Wonder Lab” on Netflix, an educational series where she demonstrated science experiments in a fun and engaging way.
  • The show was well-received for its approach to making complex scientific concepts accessible to children.
• Professional Speaker and Writer:
  • Emily is a sought-after speaker at various conferences and events, where she discusses the importance of STEM education and gender equality.
  • She is also a contributing writer for TechCrunch, where she shares her insights on science and technology.

Authorship

• Ada Lace Series:
  • Emily authored the “Ada Lace” series, which introduces young readers to science and technology through the adventures of a young girl named Ada Lace.
• Reach for the Stars (Picture Book):
  • “Reach for the Stars,” illustrated by Honee Jang, is a picture book that encourages children to dream big and explore the wonders of the universe.
• Science Experiment Books:
  • Emily has also created two books of science experiments designed to inspire curiosity and learning among children.

Space Exploration

• New Shepard Flight (July 2024):
  • Emily announced that she would be a passenger on a New Shepard flight to space, marking a significant milestone in her career.

Personal Life and Interests

• Marriage: Emily is married to Tom Franklin, an aerospace engineer, whom she met during her NASA internship.
• Children: The couple has a daughter named Rose Kimberley Frank, born in 2019.
• Height: 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm)

Hobbies and Interests

• STEM Advocacy:
  • Emily is deeply passionate about promoting STEM education and gender equality in the field.
  • She actively works to inspire young girls to pursue careers in science and technology.
• Space Exploration:
  • Emily’s interest in space exploration extends beyond her career. She is an avid supporter of space missions and frequently shares updates on the latest developments in the field.
• Public Speaking:
  • Emily enjoys speaking at events and conferences, where she can share her knowledge and inspire others.
• Outdoor Activities:
  • In her free time, Emily loves spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, exploring nature, or simply enjoying the beauty of the world around her.

Conclusion

Emily Dawn Calandrelli is a remarkable individual who has successfully combined her love for science with her talent for communication. Through her work, she continues to inspire and educate, making science accessible and exciting for people of all ages.

For more about Emily and her work, you can visit her website or check out her YouTube channel for engaging science content. 🚀