Meet the Founder

Dr. Vicki has a Ph.D. in chemistry and is a career scientist with 30 years experience in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry. Drug discovery methods and robotics developed by her are used around the world.

Coming from rural Kentucky, she started the company XplorStem LLC with a dream to provide a safe, quality, equitable science education to all students.

When she is not writing science education books, she consults for the pharmaceutical industry, spends time with her family, trains herself for Ironman and trains her two rescue dogs in AKC agility and rally.

Our Story

We started XplorStem with the goal of making science relatable, memorable and fun to learn from an early age!

At XplorStem, we believe science is not limited to an elite few. It is available to everyone if they are just given the opportunity to learn!

Our combination of hands-on project based learning with building basic science vocabulary from an early age is an National Science Foundation funded approach we hope to provide opportunities to the next generation for years to come.

Our Team

Erika Zehm

Customer Relations

Erika has worked with Dr.Vicki over the past 13-years, playing a key role in social media, customer relations as well strategic business development.

Erika's aptitude for fostering personal relationships with customers stands as a cornerstone, enabling her to discern unique needs and craft tailor-made solutions, even contributing to the design of new products.

With a background in political science and a wealth of campaign experience, Erika infuses her work with a distinctive perspective, ensuring lasting success amidst today's competitive landscape.

Her multifaceted contributions epitomize Xplorstem's commitment to transformative education and strategic growth.

Jordan Nienaber

Software Engineer

Jordan became a part of the Xplorstem team in December 2022, making this her first job in the industry after graduating CSU San Marcos with a bachelor's of science in Computer Science.

Jordan's primary responsibilities include back-end development and database management. Efficient data processing and logical database design is the core principle she pursues.

Prior to working for Xplorstem, Jordan spent several years teaching children programming. She uses that knowledge of how children learn to help develop applications that children will enjoy using.

Ari Brashear

Software Engineer

Ari became part of the XplorStem team in January of 2023, - marking the initiation of their career in web development. Their passion for coding has been a constant ever since they first laid their hands on a keyboard, and they excel at brainstorming to solve intricate problems.

Ari's primary responsibilities include front-end development, UI design, and meticulous code documentation. The principles of user-first, equitable, and accessible design are at the heart of all their projects.

Applying their background in customer service and management, Ari brings a well-rounded perspective to their work. They collaborate effectively with their team, demonstrating a knack for navigating even the most challenging obstacles.

Rizza Songco

Laboratory Technician & Teaching Research Associate

Rizza is a recent graduate from Newberry College where she got a Bachelor's Degree in Biology. In college, she was a collegiate athlete who captained her soccer team.

Throughout college, Rizza studied the impact of nutrition on human physiology and athletic capabilities, bridging her passion for science and sports. Rizza also pursued additional courses in communications, improving her skills to teach science with clarity and enthusiasm.

Rizza first joined XplorStem's team as a National Science Foundation funded intern. She now takes a role as the lab technician and teaching research associate. She finds great joy working with kids and inspiring young minds to explore the wonders of science!