ABOUT KANTIS SIMMONS
The Leading AI + STEM Education Expert and Keynote Speaker Tackling America's Education Crisis
Do these numbers keep you up at night? 🙈
- 7,000 students drop out of school every day
- 1.3 million students fail to graduate from high school every year
- 1 in 3 college freshmen will graduate and get a job in their field
- 16% of American high school seniors are proficient in math and interested in a science career
- Only 33% of teachers who teach STEM have a STEM degree
- The USA is ranked #25 in math and #17 in science out of 31 countries.
- 25 years ago, the USA was #1 in Graduation Rate, Today we are #17
💥 These educational statistics drive me absolutely nuts.
That’s why I’m irrationally passionate about fixing them.
As a dedicated AI in Education speaker and STEM success strategist, my mission extends beyond just motivational speeches.
I provide practical, proven, and now AI-powered tools that empower students to:
💡 Learn STEM
by providing the tools and study skills needed to excel in science, technology, engineering, and math.
❤️ Love STEM
So much that they chase careers in science, engineering, tech, and medicine — often on full scholarships.
🌎 Live STEM
by making a positive impact on the world through careers and jobs that bring happiness and fulfillment.
Why I'm Committed to Solving the STEM & Education Challenge
As a Leading Global STEM Expert, Motivational Speaker for Educators, and School Success Strategist, my aim is to forestall the academic failure epidemic, address critical STEM education challenges, combat the teacher turnover rate, and provide solutions to the trillion-dollar student loan debt crisis sweeping across America’s schools and colleges.
That's why I'm passionately committed to inspiring students, parents, and educators to achieve their best in school and life.
Kantis Simmons:
From Research Scientist to Renowned Education Speaker
I was born to two loving parents who ignited the fire for excellence in me at 6 months, by placing me in school..."
YES! I have been in school for 25 years! It sounds like a long time...I know! However, those academic years were crucial in my educational and professional successes and the reason for my passion for inspiring others.
Academic & Professional Milestones
As a student, Kantis Simmons earned:
- A BS Degree in Chemistry from Norfolk State University (Norfolk, VA)
- A MS Degree in Polymer Science and Engineering from Lehigh University (Bethlehem, PA)
- A MS Degree in Textile and Fiber Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology (Atlanta, GA)
Likewise, as a cool nerd, I was fortunate to work as a Research Scientist for esteemed organizations such as Mobil Chemical Company, NASA Langley Research Center, and CIBA Vision (now Alcon).


My Personal Triumph Over Self-Doubt
Well, Here's My Story...
As an inspirational motivational speaker focused on Academic Success, Teacher Burnout prevention, and STEM Education, I've spent over a decade speaking at school assembly programs, educational conferences, and teacher training seminars across the globe.
With over 25+ years of being a student, I have gained first-hand insight into what it takes to not only inspire students and educators but also fuel them with the momentum necessary for success.
Also, I have had my own struggle with self-doubt.
As illustrious as my accomplishments, I did not always think that I could. I struggled as many do with a low self-esteem and bouts of self-doubt.
You see… I grew up with "stinking thinking" because of a birth defect that made me feel insecure and often, I thought, “I can’t… I won’t… and I’ll never!”
This thinking kept me fearful and doubtful about my academics and my future career.
However, after hearing (and understanding) a few words from family, mentors, books and educators; learning strategies for life success and personal achievement, I’ve turned my mess into my message and you can too!
SEE SPEAKING PROGRAMS
The Core of My Message: Engaging, Exciting, Empowering
Like you, I’ve spent some time asking myself what can I do to challenge students and educators beyond being spectators of the learning process but rather full participants in their own success.
What I’ve discovered, is students need practical success principles which they are able to swallow in a fun, relatable way (just like I did).
“In my message, I strive to make my audience feel engaged, excited, and empowered."
Using humorous life stories and my expertise on success (and failure), I share with them the tools and techniques it takes to succeed in every aspect of school, so they can ultimately succeed in life.
These are some of the same strategies and mindsets that have helped me:
- Earn 3 Advanced College Degrees with Honors
- Receive $317,000 in Scholarships and Fellowships
- Invent Contact Lenses Products for CIBA Vision
- Perform as Head Drum Major for the Olympic Games
- Work as a Scientist at NASA Langley Research Center
Ready to Improve STEM Education with Kantis Simmons?
Wanna Join Me To Improve STEM Education?
Book me to speak at your next education conference, school event, or professional development session. Let’s fix these critical STEM statistics together — one school, one classroom, one student at a time.
CLICK HERE TO SEE SPEAKING PROGRAMS