Tamara Markey is a dedicated educator, administrator and advocate for equitable STEM education. As associate director of the Purdue Minority Engineering Program (MEP), she leads retention initiatives, corporate partnerships and strategic recruitment efforts to support underrepresented students in engineering from first year through graduation.

The 2019 Indiana Teacher of the Year, Markey has extensive experience in STEM curriculum development, mentorship and program management. She previously served as a STEM Education Consultant for Purdue’s Algebra by 7th Grade initiative, a Pre-Engineering Project Lead the Way instructor and a district STEM consultant, where she championed pathways to increase student access to STEM careers. She also founded the Middle School Girls in Technology program to inspire young women in engineering and technology.

Before transitioning to education, Markey worked at BP/Amoco Pipeline Company in business development, logistics and strategic planning. She holds a BS in industrial engineering and an MS in Engineering & Technology Education from Purdue University. Her accolades include the 2021 Purdue Outstanding Industrial Engineer Recognition and the Engineering Technology Educators of Indiana Program Excellence Award.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Markey's faith and family are at the heart of everything she does. She is a proud mother of three, a devoted wife celebrating 35 years of marriage and the adoring owner of a brilliant and beautiful goldendoodle, Teddy.

With a passion for mentorship, student success and faith-driven leadership, Markey continues to champion diversity and excellence in STEM.