Dr. Holly P. Trisch is a Postdoctoral Associate at Mississippi State University whose research focuses on engineering education, STEM learning, and the experiences that shape students’ pathways into STEM. Her work explores how educators can make student thinking visible, strengthen STEM self-efficacy, and create meaningful connections between engineering and elementary education.

Dr. Trisch earned her Ph.D. in Engineering Education from Mississippi State University, where her doctoral research examined how K-12 educators shape STEM pathways through social capital and self-efficacy. She also holds an M.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Alaska Anchorage and a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Florida State University. She is a licensed Professional Engineer in Alaska.

As a postdoctoral researcher, Dr. Trisch is investigating approaches to integrating engineering into elementary literacy instruction, with particular attention to supporting educators and students in rural communities. Her broader research interests include engineering identity and pathways, teacher professional development, writing and metacognition in STEM learning, and accessible approaches to early engineering education.

Dr. Trisch is committed to translating engineering education research into practical resources and experiences that help educators make engineering engaging, relevant, and accessible to young learners.