Brandi West is the Assistant Director of Secondary STEM Education at Rice University’s Office of STEM Engagement (R-STEM). In this role, she leads programs that strengthen STEM teaching and learning across Texas, including AMP! (Applied Mathematics Program), CHANGE (Cancer Health Advancement through Networks, Guidance, and Education), and NASA education initiatives. She focuses on designing and facilitating innovative, inquiry-based learning experiences that connect educators and students to real-world STEM applications.

With 18 years of experience in public education, Brandi has taught science, STEM, and programming and served as an instructional coach. In these roles, she led curriculum design efforts, developed professional learning for educators, and supported teachers in creating engaging, student-centered classrooms. Her classroom and coaching background continue to shape her work at Rice, ensuring that STEM programming is practical, meaningful, and directly relevant to teachers and students. Brandi is passionate about empowering educators to bring curiosity-driven, hands-on learning into the classroom and building partnerships that broaden participation in STEM. Her work bridges research, teaching, and community outreach, inspiring the next generation of problem-solvers and innovators.