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Period Zero: Workforce Pathways is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to become a catalyst for equity, innovation, and opportunity in our region. We are committed to building strong community partnerships and creating spaces where youth and career seekers can grow, lead, and thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
Our board is made up of individuals deeply invested in our mission and long-term vision. Through immersive, real-world learning experiences, we help participants develop leadership, financial literacy, and entrepreneurial thinking, while building the AI literacy and creative confidence needed to compete and contribute in a global workforce.
At Period Zero, we’re preparing the next generation not just to succeed in the future, but to lead it and drive innovation.
At the same time, employers across every industry were signaling a shift away from traditional degrees and toward competency-based hiring. In today’s global, AI-driven economy, what matters most are the skills that can’t be automated: critical thinking, creativity, cultural agility, and collaboration. These are now among the most sought-after competencies in any workforce study or talent forecast. Yet our education systems are not evolving quickly enough to equip students for these expectations.
Period Zero exists to bridge that gap.
We create spaces where youth and career seekers can build the competencies and confidence to thrive, not just academically or professionally, but personally. Our programs blend leadership development, financial literacy, AI literacy, and entrepreneurial thinking to prepare participants to succeed in a global economy. We believe the future belongs to those who are willing to start, even when it’s imperfect.
That’s why we call it Period Zero—a space that doesn’t exist on traditional school schedules or in higher education course catalogs. It’s the zero hour. The missing time that the educational policy doesn’t account for. A time and place where learning is not confined by testing requirements or outdated structures, but instead focused on building the real-world competencies today’s workforce demands. It’s where preparation meets possibility—and where young people finally get the chance to start their journey on their own terms.
Launch Party
Meet The Team

Dr. Audra Lewis-Hoesch
Founder
Dr. Audra Lewis-Hoesch is an educator, researcher, speaker, and Founder and Executive Director of Period Zero, a nonprofit preparing the next generation for success in an AI-driven world.
Her work centers on one question: How do we build human capacity in a world where technology is changing faster than education?
With more than two decades of experience across education, workforce development, and entrepreneurship, Audra creates real-world learning opportunities that build the uniquely human skills technology cannot replace. Through Period Zero, she brings students, educators, industry leaders, and communities together to help young people develop confidence, discover their strengths, and build choice-filled futures.

Bianca Goolsby, MBA
Chief of Strategy
Bianca Goolsby, MBA, serves as Chief of Strategy and Secretary of the Period Zero Board of Directors, leading strategy, organizational growth, brand development, and digital innovation.
An award-winning digital strategist and educational advocate, Bianca is the founder of Teaching for the Culture and CEO of The LEVEL8 Agency. With expertise spanning marketing technology, business strategy, and education, she is known for challenging conventional thinking and building purpose-driven solutions.
Through Period Zero, Bianca is committed to creating innovative systems and opportunities that empower young people to lead boldly, think strategically, and become confident, purpose-driven changemakers.

John Kleist III
Talent Frameworks & AI Integration
John Kleist III serves as Vice Chair of the Period Zero Board of Directors and leads Talent Frameworks & AI Integration, helping shape strategies that prepare students for the future of work.
As Chief Growth & Alliances Officer at SkillsTX, John specializes in skills intelligence, AI, workforce transformation, and skills-first talent strategies. His work is guided by one belief: human potential is far more evenly distributed than opportunity.
Through Period Zero, John is committed to helping students recognize their strengths, make their capabilities visible, and build meaningful pathways into an evolving workforce with confidence, purpose, and possibility.

Kabriel Ball
Youth Innovation & Digital Media Advisor
Kabriel Ball serves as Youth Innovation & Digital Media Advisor on the Period Zero Board of Directors, bringing the perspective of an emerging leader to digital engagement, youth innovation, and creative communications.
A recent Fairmont State University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Management, Kabriel will soon begin pursuing her MBA. She first joined Period Zero as a Communications & Systems Intern, gaining real-world experience before advancing into a board leadership role.
Through Period Zero, Kabriel is committed to helping young people embrace opportunities, think creatively, and build confidence in their own path. A digital content creator herself, she believes students should feel empowered to challenge expectations and create futures that reflect their unique vision.

Dianne A. Rambo
Director of Mentoring & SEL Initiatives
Dianne Rambo serves as Director of Mentoring & SEL Initiatives and Treasurer on the Period Zero Board of Directors, helping shape programs focused on resilience, emotional well-being, and positive youth development.
After more than 15 years in national security and federal contracting, Dianne transitioned into education and counseling. She is pursuing a Master of Education in Counseling and studies trauma-informed and resilience-oriented practices. Known affectionately by her students as “Mrs. Rainbow,” Dianne is passionate about creating environments where young people feel seen, supported, and safe to grow.
Through Period Zero, she is committed to helping students build confidence, emotional intelligence, resilience, and meaningful relationships that prepare them for school, careers, and life.

Dr. Alaine Nativio
Director of Workforce Development
Dr. Alaine Nativio serves as Director of Workforce Development on the Period Zero Board of Directors, helping prepare students for successful transitions from education to careers.
With more than 20 years in education, Alaine specializes in Life Skills and Career Education and teaches graduate-level courses in Instructional Design and Technology. She holds a Ph.D. in Instructional Design for Online Learning and brings extensive experience creating engaging, learner-centered educational experiences.
Through Period Zero, Alaine is passionate about helping students discover their strengths, explore meaningful career pathways, and gain real-world experiences that build confidence, a sense of purpose, and the skills needed to thrive in an evolving workforce.
Student Ambassadors

AJ Lewis
Ambassador & Public Speaking Lead
AJ Lewis is a student at Bethel Park High School and a member of the Class of 2030. As a Student Ambassador and Public Speaking Lead with Period Zero, she helps encourage students to build confidence, strengthen their communication skills, and find their voice. AJ has a strong interest in political science and hopes to pursue a career where she can make a positive impact through leadership, policy, and public service. Through the 16 Personalities assessment, AJ discovered that she is an ENFP-A (Campaigner), reflecting her enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to embrace new opportunities. Since joining Period Zero, she has strengthened her communication skills and gained valuable experience collaborating with others. AJ is excited to continue growing as a leader while using her voice to inspire and connect with those around her.

Tamar Conner
Youth Entrepreneurship Lead & Co-Chair for Fundraising
Tamar Conner is a recent graduate of Baldwin High School and currently studies Baking and Pastry Arts at Westmoreland County Community College (WCCC). As a Student Ambassador and Student Entrepreneur with Period Zero, Tamar continues to develop leadership, communication, and professional skills while growing his business, Conner’s Cookies. He hopes to expand his business into a successful bakery and build a career as an entrepreneur. Through the 16 Personalities assessment, Tamar discovered that he is an ESFP-T (Entertainer), reflecting his creativity, enthusiasm, and ability to connect with others. Since joining Period Zero, he has learned the importance of networking and professionalism. Outside of Period Zero, Tamar enjoys developing new cookie recipes and sharing his baked goods with the community through local markets and events.

Daytona Hissong
Website & Digital Media Intern
Daytona Hissing is a student at the Community College of Allegheny County and serves as a Student Ambassador and Website & Digital Media Intern with Period Zero. In her role, she supports the organization’s digital presence while developing skills in website management, communication, leadership, and technology. Daytona’s career interests include cybersecurity, technology, and mechatronics, and she is focused on building the technical and professional skills needed for her future career. Through the 16 Personalities assessment, she discovered that she is an ENFP (Campaigner), reflecting her creativity, enthusiasm, and passion for meaningful causes. Since joining Period Zero, Daytona has learned that leadership is not about being in charge, but about supporting others and helping them grow. Outside of Period Zero, she enjoys volunteer firefighting, welding, and piloting drones.

Alexis Schlott
Administration & Social Media Chair
Lexi Schlott is a student at Bethel Park High School and a member of the Class of 2030. As a Student Ambassador and Administration & Social Media Lead with Period Zero, she supports the organization through communication, digital engagement, and administrative projects while developing valuable leadership and workplace skills. Lexi has a strong interest in the sciences and looks forward to exploring career opportunities within the field. Through the 16 Personalities assessment, she discovered that she is an ENFP (Campaigner), reflecting her enthusiasm, compassion, creativity, and ability to build meaningful connections with others. Since joining Period Zero, Lexi has strengthened her confidence, communication, and social skills while gaining real-world experience. Outside of Period Zero, she enjoys playing the violin, painting, drawing, and crocheting.

Blaize Charlton
Website & Creative Projects Ambassador
Blaize is an eighth-grade student and Student Ambassador with Period Zero, where he serves as the Creative Projects Leader. In this role, he enjoys developing creative ideas and contributing to projects that engage youth and the community. Blaize hopes to pursue a career as a pilot while also exploring his passion for storm chasing. Through his personality assessment, he identified as a Type 6 (The Loyalist) and learned that he is loyal, dependable, and values being prepared, supporting others, and working as part of a team. Since joining Period Zero, Blaize has gained valuable knowledge about entrepreneurship, business, and leadership while building confidence in his creative abilities. Outside of Period Zero, he enjoys fishing, arts and crafts, and finding new ways to express his creativity.

Opal Devlin
Fundraising Chair
Opal Devlin is a student at Bethel Park High School and a Student Ambassador and Fundraising Lead with Period Zero. In her role, she enjoys encouraging others, expressing her creativity, and developing her leadership skills. While still exploring future career options, Opal hopes to pursue a path that allows her to use her creativity and make a meaningful impact. Through the 16 Personalities assessment, she discovered that she is an INFJ-T (Advocate) and thrives when her work makes a positive difference in others’ lives. Since joining Period Zero, Opal has strengthened her leadership and communication skills while discovering new talents through real-world experiences. Outside of Period Zero, she enjoys swimming, photography, and playing the violin.

Charlie Rafalowski
Branding & Merchandise Lead
Charlie Rafalowski is an eighth-grade student and Student Ambassador with Period Zero, where he serves as the Merchandise Design Leader. In this role, he enjoys combining creativity with entrepreneurship by helping develop apparel and merchandise that represent the Period Zero brand. Charlie aspires to become an architect or real estate developer, designing and building projects that positively impact communities. Through his personality assessment, he learned that he is optimistic and enthusiastic, enjoys taking on new challenges, and brings positive energy to the people around him. Since joining Period Zero, he has strengthened his communication skills and gained valuable experience in business, leadership, and teamwork. Outside of Period Zero, Charlie enjoys thinking creatively, exploring new ideas, and working toward his goal of building a successful future.
