Lilac Solutions is a clean energy tech company specializing in direct lithium extraction (DLE). Lithium is an essential raw material in electric car batteries. Our proprietary ion-exchange technology will help build the lithium supply chain from brine resources in a more sustainable and ethical way.In my role as an engineer on the Ion Exchange team, I have designed, built, and operated equipment on every scale from bench R&D to pilot and demo. A highlight of my job has been the opportunity to commission and operate our pilot plants in Chile and Argentina.

• Established and implemented new Standard Operating Procedures to maximize quality, safety, cost-efficiency, and regulatory compliance. • Worked closely with the Head Distiller and production team in a diverse set of duties including the production and processing of spirits as well as R&D for new products.• Proposed manufacturing process improvements, measured relevant metrics, and documented results.• Developed templates in Excel to automate daily calculations and enable consistent documentation throughout the distillery.

• Conducted research supporting the development of advanced ceramic materials for more efficient turbine engines. • Investigated new methods for synthesis and processing of SiC-based composite matrices (CMCs). • Utilized scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for analysis and characterization of materials. • Presented findings for the project at several forums, including a poster session and two oral talks

Organized practices, meetings, travel, and fundraisers in preparation for frequent competition within the Inter-Collegiate Sailing Association. Managed and motivated the Executive Board. Coordinated the launch of a new JV team by recruiting members and coaches, planning practices, and obtaining funding. Elected as Team Captain (2019-'20) in recognition of exceptional leadership ability. Previously held the position of Recruitment Chair (2017-'19).

Contributed to a virtual team of eight members with diverse backgrounds to create a Preliminary Design Review document which meets NASA quality specifications. Participated in a project-based workforce development program by attending interactive online seminars from NASA scientists and engineers.

Supervised, cared for, and engaged with young children ranging from 3 months to 5 years old. Main focuses included helping the children learn and grow in an encouraging environment, de-escalating conflicts in a calm manner, and teaching them the importance of respecting others. Required constant awareness of safety risks and taking immediate action to minimize them. The job also required close interaction with supervisors: following directions from lead teachers and taking frequent constructive criticism to improve teaching skills.

Performed inorganic synthetic chemistry research with the Fortier group as part of an NSF-funded collaboration between UTEP and the UCSB Materials Research Laboratory. Investigated and optimized several synthetic routes towards a novel ferrocene-type complex.

Assisted the TA in leading weekly labs for first-year undergraduate chemistry students. Answered questions about procedure, safety, and chemistry concepts. Acted as an additional resource for students to rely on for guidance about the class or college life in general.

Met with elementary, junior high, and high school students from around the country several times per month via video call to help them complete homework or study for exams. Required patience, adaptability, excellent communication skills, and a good understanding of the learning process.