Our Board of Directors
Meet the dedicated leaders who guide gainingSTEAM's mission to empower students through Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics education.
Tara Petersen
President
Tara Petersen has been a dedicated educator for over 27 years.
She currently serves as the STEM Coordinator at Mary Our Queen Elementary School, where she passionately
promotes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.
For the past 16 years, Tara has been an invaluable supporter of Robotics Tournaments and Teams, helping
to inspire and guide the next generation of innovators.
In 2025, Tara was inducted into the
RECF Stem Hall of Fame in 2025, for the Inspiration All Star Award.
Brandon Petersen
Vice President
Brandon Petersen has spent the past 16 years mentoring youth robotics teams, hosting tournaments and the State
Championships
Brandon has taken teams each year to the VEX Robotics World Championships
In 2019, I was inducted into the
RECF Stem Hall of Fame in 2019, for the Inspiration All Star Award.
Michael Novotney
Treasurer
Michael Novotney is a distinguished graduate of the University of Notre Dame, where he was honored with several
prestigious awards. He received the Hall Spirit Award for "exemplifying the Spirit of Notre Dame,"
the Fr. Thomas Tallarida Award for "service and dedication to the betterment of student life at Notre Dame,"
and the Herb Kohl Scholarship for "distinctive contribution to the community while pursuing academic excellence".
With over 15 years of professional experience, Michael has developed expertise in data management, business process
development, and leading international teams.