Jeimi Ellis aka @TheSpaceBabe is a dedicated geologist with a passion for unraveling the Earth’s mysteries and advocating for diversity within STEM fields. Her journey into geology began with a profound curiosity about the natural world, leading her to pursue a career that combines rigorous scientific inquiry with a commitment to inclusivity.

Throughout her career, Jeimi has been involved in various geological projects, contributing valuable insights into Earth’s processes and structures. Her work not only advances scientific understanding but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring geologists, particularly women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. Beyond her research endeavors, Jeimi actively participates in initiatives aimed at promoting STEM education among diverse communities. She believes in the power of mentorship and strives to provide guidance and support to the next generation of scientists. Jeimi’s dedication to her field and her advocacy for diversity have earned her recognition among her peers. She continues to push boundaries, challenging stereotypes, and paving the way for a more inclusive future in geology and STEM as a whole.

In her personal life, Jeimi enjoys sharing her experiences and insights through social media platforms, aiming to demystify geology and make it accessible to a broader audience. Her approachable demeanor and genuine passion for science communication have garnered her a substantial following, further amplifying her impact. Jeimi Ellis exemplifies the spirit of perseverance, curiosity, and inclusivity, making significant strides in geology while inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.

Your journey into geology is inspiring. What sparked your interest in this field, and how has it evolved over time?

My path to geology was unexpected and only came into my life due to circumstantial reasons. I did love playing in the dirt well into my teens, but geology wasn’t exactly at the forefront of where I saw my future self. In hindsight, I’m truly grateful that it turned out this way. Throughout my academic journey, I struggled with maintaining high grades, often hovering around a C average, even though I had a deep fascination with science. Initially, I pursued the medical field, but despite my interest, I couldn’t break through that academic barrier. Like many other full-time working students, I relied on federal financial aid and worked hard to meet the necessary requirements to stay enrolled, but life threw me a curveball during my sophomore year. My parents went through a divorce, and suddenly, I found myself navigating a lot of adult responsibilities, including moving out and adjusting to a new living situation. This personal upheaval affected my academic performance, and I ultimately faced academic suspension the following semester.

After taking time off, I returned to school with private loans, which I don’t recommend, but I knew I needed a fresh start. In choosing my classes, I enrolled in a geology course to help boost my GPA. I had no idea at the time that this would be a life-changing decision. Geology 101, taught by Dr. Murlene Clark, started with a discussion on volcanoes, and the way she spoke about them, I felt this warmth in the middle of my chest, sort of like butterflies. I knew what I was feeling was a passion igniting within, something I had never experienced before. Dr. Clark’s passion for the subject was contagious, and from that moment on, I knew geology was where I belonged.

Not only did it lead me to a field I’m passionate about, but my second geology class also helped me discover something crucial about myself. After completing a geological time scale test, my professor pulled me aside to discuss getting tested for a learning disability. At 22, I was diagnosed with reading and phonetic dyslexia—something I had unknowingly struggled with all my life. This diagnosis was a game-changer, as it explained many of the challenges I had faced academically.

As a woman in STEM, what unique challenges have you faced, and how have you navigated them?

There are quite a few challenges I have faced, ranging in levels of difficulty. One of the biggest hurdles I had to overcome was how quickly people discredit my knowledge and abilities because they perceive me as an attractive individual. There is also a bias that my path was made easier due to something beyond my control. Additionally, as a minority from a mixed ethnic background, I have always been aware that I don’t fit the standard mold. I created my social persona, The SpaceBabe, as a way to reclaim the word “babe” and encourage other women to embrace their power. I chose not to hide and instead leveraged my appearance as an engaging entry point to capture interest in space education, breaking stereotypes and drawing in diverse audiences.

Can you share a significant project or achievement in your career that you’re particularly proud of?

Very early on in my career, within less than a year after my start date, an opportunity presented itself that allowed me to showcase my capabilities in the field. I was assigned as Project Oversight for the remediation of a former massive gas production facility (MPG). I can’t share details due to company policy, but in simple terms, the project focused on removing harmful materials left behind from the early 1900s. This was my first big solo project away from home for three months in a small rural city, and I was the only female working on-site. This project gave me so much responsibility and leadership experience, and it proved my capabilities in a challenging environment.

How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your personal life, especially considering the demands of your field?

To be completely honest, I don’t have the best work-life balance at this time. Jobs in the consulting industry have seasonal peaks, which can become hectic. I once worked 80+ hours in a single week conducting air sampling monitoring during an underground pipeline installation. My field can be difficult for maintaining mental health, and as someone in treatment for PTSD, GAD, and MDD, I’ve had to take FMLA leave twice to allow myself time to recover and rest.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the field of geology or other STEM disciplines?

There are multiple ways to get to the same destination. Just because you take an unconventional path doesn’t make it any less worthy. Volunteering for programs in your field of interest is a great way to network with like-minded peers.

How has the field of geology changed over the years concerning diversity and inclusion?

There’s been some progress, but I don’t think it’s enough. Geology remains approximately 79% male-dominated. If it were marketed like other hard sciences and introduced in rural schools, we could see greater diversity.

Can you discuss any mentors or role models who have significantly influenced your career?

My first mentor was Lisa Bishop, a geology teaching assistant who helped me through some of my hardest classes and continues to support me today. Another key influence was Emily Calandrelli, The Space Gal, who inspired me to pursue aerospace through NASA’s Solar System Ambassadors program.

How do you see the future of geology evolving, and what role do you hope to play in its advancement?

The future of geology will be driven by technology. While I don’t see myself contributing to its advancement, I do plan to use that knowledge in my future career as an environmental lawyer.