Michelle Pitkin
Elma,NY
Summary
Detail-oriented professional with extensive experience in laboratory management and chemistry education. Known for effective collaboration and innovative instructional methods, which have led to measurable increases in student achievement and curriculum enhancement. Resourceful Laboratory Manager known for high productivity and efficient task completion. Specialize in process optimization, quality control, and regulatory compliance. Excel at team leadership, problem-solving, and communication, ensuring smooth laboratory operations and successful project outcomes.
Overview
1
1
Certification
34
34
years of professional experience
Work History
Adjunct Chemistry Instructor
Genesee Community College
Attica, New York
09.2006 - Current
- Implement innovative laboratory experiments through the Accelerated College Enrollment Program for CHE 103 course by increasing student grade by 30% through practical applications of theoretical concepts.
- Design interactive lessons that bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world scenarios and facilitating discussions on complex chemical concepts.
- Utilized technology resources such as online databases, interactive simulations and multimedia presentations during lessons in order to engage learners at all levels.
Chemistry Educator
Attica Senior High School
Attica, NY
09.2004 - Current
- Increased mastery level of June Regents exam from 0% to 45% in 2 years by employing diverse instructional strategies tailored to student learning needs.
- Elevated passing rate from 40% to 100% within the first 2 years of teaching through implementation of technology tools such as online simulations, hands-on laboratory experiments, and interactive whiteboards in instructional practices.
- Collaborated with Western New York chemistry faculty from multiple high schools to create engaging lesson plans and improve curriculum and program initiatives.
Heavy Metals Laboratory Manager
RECRA Environmental
Amherst, New York
07.1992 - 07.2002
- Overseen heavy metal sample digestions and operating advanced instrumentation like ICP, GFAA to detect 26 metals down to parts-per-billion levels per sample delivery group
- Managed quality control programs, verified calibration, and maintained laboratory accreditations.
- Adhered to tight lab budgets, ordered supplies, and ensured adherence to safety protocols for hazardous chemical and waste according to SW846 3rd edition and 40 CFR methods.
- Managed laboratory operations with Project Managers to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Chemical Technology
Alfred State College
Alfred, NYBachelor of Arts - Chemistry
Buffalo State College
Buffalo, NYMBA -
Medaille College
Buffalo, NYSome College (No Degree) - Certification in Chemistry Education
D'Youville College
Buffalo, NYSkills
- Laboratory management
- ICP, AA, Cold Vapor, GC-MS instrumentation
- EPA SW846 3rd edition
- EPA 40 CFR
- Curriculum development
- Instructional design
- Data interpretation
- Student assessment techniques
- Continuous learning mindset
- Safety compliance
- Lab operations
- Sample processing
- Experimental design
- Problem-solving
- Chemical Safety Hygiene Officer
Certification
- Teaching Certification in Chemistry, General Science and Business Grade 5-12
Affliation
American Association of Chemistry Teachers, American Chemical Society, Western New York Consortium of Chemistry Teachers, Attica District Safety Team Member
Timeline
Adjunct Chemistry Instructor
Genesee Community College
09.2006 - Current
Chemistry Educator
Attica Senior High School
09.2004 - Current
Heavy Metals Laboratory Manager
RECRA Environmental
07.1992 - 07.2002
Associate of Applied Science - Chemical Technology
Alfred State College
Bachelor of Arts - Chemistry
Buffalo State College
MBA -
Medaille College
Some College (No Degree) - Certification in Chemistry Education
D'Youville College