Colleen Kelley, PhD
Career Coach
Chemistry | Environmental Science | Toxicology | Science Education
My Coaching Approach
I believe that careers, much like scientific discoveries, rarely unfold in a straight line. Some of the most meaningful opportunities emerge from unexpected detours, setbacks, and moments when we are forced to rethink what comes next. My role as a coach is to help clients make sense of those experiences, identify the common threads that connect them, and build a path forward that is both purposeful and authentic.
Throughout my career, I have worked across academia, government, the military, nonprofit organizations, industry, and entrepreneurship. Because of that, I enjoy helping clients explore the many ways a scientific background can translate into meaningful careers. Many scientists and students are aware of only a small fraction of the opportunities available to them. Together, we explore possibilities, uncover transferable skills, and identify paths that align with their interests, strengths, and goals.
As an educator and mentor, I am known for helping people see potential in themselves that they may not yet recognize. Whether we are discussing graduate school, career transitions, science communication, leadership, teaching, entrepreneurship, or navigating professional challenges, I strive to create a supportive environment where clients feel encouraged, empowered, and capable of taking the next step.
Clients often tell me that working with me feels like having both a coach and a cheerleader in their corner. I bring curiosity, creativity, humor, and optimism to every conversation, while also providing honest feedback and practical strategies. My goal is not simply to help clients land their next opportunity, but to help them build confidence in their ability to navigate whatever comes next.
About Me
My career has never followed a conventional path, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
I began my professional journey as an Army officer and researcher while earning my Ph.D. in chemistry and building a career in higher education. For more than three decades, I taught chemistry, conducted research, mentored students, published textbooks, and developed innovative approaches to science education. Along the way, I had the opportunity to live and work internationally, conduct research across multiple disciplines, and collaborate with scientists, educators, and students around the world.
A few years ago, I made what many people considered an unexpected career move: I left higher education to become an elementary science teacher. That experience reinforced something I had always believed that curiosity, creativity, and learning are lifelong pursuits. Today, I continue to teach while also building educational programs, writing books, creating science media, and developing new ways to make science more accessible and meaningful for learners of all ages.
I am particularly passionate about helping people communicate science effectively, discover their unique strengths, and build careers that align with their values. My own journey has included moments of uncertainty, reinvention, and risk-taking, which allows me to connect deeply with clients who are navigating transitions of their own.
When I'm not coaching or teaching, you'll likely find me swimming, reading, writing children's books, creating science comics, watching Netflix with my son, spending time with friends, or dreaming up new ways to bring science to life through storytelling.
I believe science is ultimately about people, and I feel incredibly fortunate to help others build careers that allow them to make their own impact on the world.
▶️ Watch my interview on the Diverse Routes Podcast, where I share my STEM career journey in more detail.
Coming Soon!
*Accepting clients starting in September 2026*