Meet the Planning Committee

Matthew is an alumnus of the Fernbank LINKS team. After finishing a master's degree in computer science at Georgia Tech, and spending a few years working for a variety of robotics startups, he now works as a software engineer, building robots for Microsoft. Outside of Georgia BEST, you'll find him mentoring the Georgia Tech RoboJackets.

Jessie is an alumna of CircuitRunners Robotics from Wheeler High School. She spent three years competing in BEST, co-leading the team in her senior year. Having received her B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech, she is pursuing a master's degree at the same institute.

Debi has been on this journey with students since 1973. She was doing STEM when STEM wasn't a "word!" Working with the best students from Metro Atlanta and beyond is a gift. They keep her motivated and energized! Having recently begun a well-earned retirement from education and directing our hub, Debi continues to support BEST as an advisor for our hub.

Dennis is a mechatronics student at Kennesaw State University. After spending three years competing in BEST Robotics, he is excited to give back as a member of the planning committee and head referee for the hub.

Brenden is an alumnus of Team 705 Rome High School, and is a current student at Berry College pursuing an engineering, applied physics, and teaching degree. He is a big fan of Georgia BEST and wants to eventually work for Texas Instruments.

In memory of Michael Foley

We'd like to take this space to remember Michael Foley, a long standing member of our planning committee who passed unexpectedly in January of 2022. Michael served as our head judge and was a key player to making our hub events happen for many years. His support of Georgia STEM education wasn't limited to BEST robotics, and he was a regular volunteer for local FIRST robotics events as well. We miss him dearly and our memories of him continue to inspire the work we do at Georgia BEST today.