Working with MEERA

Founder, Chief Executive Officer + Owner

Kelsey Robertson founded TECHnista with a mission to connect students to STEM and manufacturing careers. With 10 years in K-12 education and multiple teaching and entrepreneurship awards, she holds a B.S. in Elementary Education from Averett University. Certified in coding and design tools, Kelsey enjoys running, reading, and spending time with her husband and their three boys.

Chief Operating Officer + Owner

Timothy Robertson is the COO and co-owner of TECHnista, LLC. Formerly the COO of Manufacturing Advancement at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research, he has led over $175 million in workforce development initiatives and helped launch a $25 million advanced manufacturing center. A CNC machinist by trade, Tim holds a B.A.S. in Leadership from Averett University, multiple machining certifications, and 14 years of experience. He enjoys outdoor adventures with his wife and three children.

Chief Technical Officer + Owner

James Hubbard co-owns TECHnista and specializes in advanced manufacturing and workforce development. He’s led $100M+ in training programs and built 13 advanced manufacturing labs. With a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Tech and numerous machining certifications, James brings expertise in CNC, 3D modeling, and strategic operations. He enjoys traveling and outdoor activities.

Director of Regional Expansion

Clare Rodriguez is a project manager with experience in workforce development and strategic partnerships. She has led national initiatives across the U.S. and Indo-Pacific, previously working with BlueForge Alliance and Texas A&M. Clare holds a B.B.A. in MIS and certifications in project management. She enjoys yoga, fantasy novels, and exploring new foods.

Director of Regional Resources

Debra Holley has over 30 years of experience in psychology and education, including executive roles in community colleges. With degrees in Clinical Psychology and Education, she has led student success initiatives and academic program development. Debra is passionate about lifelong learning and enjoys family time and embracing new challenges.

MEERA Program Director

With 41 years in education, Bobby Shields has served as a teacher, principal, and administrator. As MEERA Program Director, he’s improved reading scores from 59% to 88% and math scores from 72% to 94%. He holds master’s degrees in Education Leadership and Sports Management, and a B.A. in Education. A licensed minister and avid tennis coach, Bobby lives with his wife on a family farm in Keeling, VA.

Training and Technology Specialist

Eric Collie is an educator and machinist with expertise in additive manufacturing and CNC technologies. He holds a B.S. in Materials Science from Virginia Tech and a machining diploma from Danville Community College. Proficient in CAD/CAM and multi-axis machining, Eric develops technical training programs and enjoys 3D printing and family time outside of work.

MEERA Lab Technician

Jordan Gluhareff is a trained machinist with hands-on experience in CNC machining, CAD/CAM, and process optimization. He earned an A.A.S. in Integrated Machining Technology and a diploma in Precision Machining from Danville Community College. Jordan’s passion for precision drives his commitment to technical excellence and manufacturing innovation.

MEERA Training Specialist

Sonya Soyars brings 19 years of experience in K-12 education, focusing on STEM and manufacturing pathways. She launched the Advanced Manufacturing Academy in Pittsylvania County and holds a B.S. from Averett University with multiple teaching endorsements. Sonya enjoys camping and sports with her husband and three boys and values faith and family.

Instructional Design Specialist

Victoria Scarce has seven years of classroom teaching experience and now designs curriculum at TECHnista. A graduate of Averett University with a degree in English and a teaching license, she excels in instructional design, data-driven planning, and curriculum development. She is certified by the Virginia Board of Education and holds an English Endorsement. Victoria enjoys life with her husband and young son and is eagerly expecting a daughter.

Instructional Design Specialist

Jenn Hardy brings eight years of experience teaching math and science and leading curriculum initiatives in Pittsylvania County. She holds a Master’s in Education from the University of Lynchburg and a B.S. from Ferrum College. Jenn has guided PBIS implementation and served in math leadership roles. She enjoys traveling, reading, and lake life with her husband and son.

Executive Administrative Services Manager

Amanda Scarce brings 20 years of experience in HR, payroll, purchasing, and employee benefits. Before TECHnista, she supported operations at Kyocera SGS Tech Hub and played a key role in achieving ISO-9001 certification. She holds an associate degree in Administrative Support Technology and is Six Sigma Lean certified. Amanda enjoys baking with her daughter, cheering on her son at soccer games, reading, and spending time in nature.

Data & Reporting Analyst

Benjamin Boles is a recent Virginia Tech graduate with a B.S. in Business IT and a focus on data analytics. His internship experience spans sales, robotics, and IT, and he brings strong skills in databases, coding, and reporting. A former student leader and mission volunteer, Benjamin enjoys using data to empower students and support technical education.