Meet our Leadership Team
The People behind KY FIRST Robotics
Behind every event, every team, and every student success story is a dedicated group of staff, volunteers, and leaders working together to grow FIRST robotics across Kentucky. Meet the people helping inspire the next generation of innovators, leaders, and problem-solvers.
Executive Director
Kelli Gowan
Kelli Gowan leads KY FIRST Robotics' statewide efforts to expand FIRST robotics opportunities across Kentucky. She works alongside educators, volunteers, industry, and community partners to grow teams, strengthen programs, and build partnerships that inspire the next generation of innovators. As Founder of KY FIRST Robotics, she remains committed to growing a sustainable robotics community that empowers students and supports teams throughout the Commonwealth.
B.S. – Georgia Tech
M.P.A. – Northern Kentucky University
17 Years with FIRST
Program Leadership
Meet the dedicated leaders responsible for delivering FIRST robotics programs across Kentucky.
FIRST LEGO League
Elaine Silber
Jean Bolte
Program Delivery Partners
FIRST Tech Challenge
Jackie Caudill
Kelli Gowan
Jeff Slaton
Program Delivery Team
FIRST Robotics Competition
Kelli Gowan
Program Delivery Partner & Regional Director
Board of Directors
KY FIRST Robotics is guided by a volunteer Board of Directors representing leaders in education, industry, and the community who support our mission and strategic growth.
President
Jeff Slaton
Board Member since 2020
Vice President
Robert Toole
Board Member since 2019
Treasurer
Heather Smith
Board Member since 2021
Kathy Allen
Staples, FRC Mentor
Arthur Canada
University of Kentucky
Sophie Smith
Eductor, FTC Mentor
Brandon Barrack
Toyota KY
Jacqueline Caudill
Challenger Learning Center of KY
Doug Wingert
UPS, FRC Mentor
Jean Bolte
NKU CINSAM
Brent Schanding
Xerox