Whitney Hernandez serves as Director of Instructional Engagement for STEM East, where she leads efforts to connect K–12 educators with regional industries through the Industry in Schools initiative. Since 2023, she has worked alongside district and school leaders to design professional learning experiences that help teachers translate real-world industry insights into standards-aligned, classroom instruction. Her work focuses on building teacher capacity, strengthening workforce awareness, and creating sustainable partnerships between schools, employers, and community organizations across eastern North Carolina.

Whitney brings 11 years of classroom experience teaching grades 2–5, with a strong foundation in elementary science and hands-on, inquiry-based learning. She is especially passionate about supporting teachers in making meaningful connections between academic content and local career pathways, ensuring students see relevance in what they learn and the opportunities available in their own communities.

She plays a key role in developing regional teacher leadership networks, facilitating industry-connected learning experiences, and supporting districts in aligning instructional practices with workforce needs. Whitney is committed to fostering collaboration across districts, schools, and classrooms to drive long-term impact for both educators and students.

Outside of her professional work, Whitney enjoys life as a proud wife, mom to three energetic teenage boys, and dog mom to two lively pups.