STSI and PepsiCo Inspire Young Minds with R&D Experience

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Valhalla, NY – February 20, 2025—Sister to Sister International (STSI), in collaboration with PepsiCo Research & Development (R&D) campus, Valhalla, NY, hosted an enriching field trip led by PepsiCo executive and STSI board member Mara Calderon Guerra. The event provided unique insight into the innovative world of research and development at one of the world’s leading food and beverage companies.

Throughout the day, students from the Westchester area engaged in various R&D activities at PepsiCo. They visited the Packing and Design Lab, participated in packing and mechanical testing, and explored how academic disciplines such as biology, chemistry, and food science link to career opportunities within the company.

A hands-on look at the focus group room provided insights into consumer behavior, sensory sciences, and psychology on product development. Additionally, the visit to the Gatorade Sports Science Institute demonstrated the application of physiology in product consumption and the role of clinical trials in innovation. Students delved into advanced

digital twins used in product design and development in the Modeling and Simulation Lab. 

A key part of the visit was the Sensory Experience; workshop, where students created and customized their own beverages, simulating the role of an R&D scientist.

The discussions highlighted the global opportunities at PepsiCo, noting that roles within the company can provide chances to travel internationally and expand both professional and personal experiences.

Opportunities for Westchester Area Students in STEAM

Students in the Westchester area have an opportunity to participate in STEAM exploration trips, web series, meetups, and tutoring within the STEAM Academy, STSI’s year-round program.

By becoming a STEAM family member, students can engage in these enriching activities designed to empower young girls of color in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

STSI is committed to advancing these students academic and career potential through hands-on experiences that provide a real-world understanding of STEM fields. The upcoming 16th Annual STEAM Camp, which will be held from June 30 to July 11, 2025 (and will be closed on July 4th), promises an impactful and fun-filled experience in the world of STEAM.

For more information about our programs, how to become a STEAM family member and upcoming partnerships, please visit www.s2si.org or contact Lydia K. Smith, STEAM Program Consultant, at lsmith@s2si.com.

Contact: Lydia K. Smith

STEAM Program Consultant

Sister to Sister International

Email: lsmith@s2si.com

Dr. Cheryl Brannan

Founder

Sister to Sister International