FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Christina Yoon is a civil engineer and advocate for hands-on STEM education and gender equity in the trades. With nearly two decades of experience in construction, engineering, and skilled trades, she combines technical expertise and field experience with a vision to empower the next generation as Founder and Executive Director of Girl Buildrs.

Her inspiration for Girl Buildrs comes from her time at California State University, Long Beach, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. While attending Cal State Long Beach, Christina worked at the College of Engineering Center, where she helped lead impactful programs such as the Engineering Girls Internship, My Daughter Is an Engineer, and Engineering Girls at the Beach. These initiatives introduced girls to engineering in supportive environments and sparked her mission to create a confidence-building space for girls.

Since graduating, Christina has worked on major infrastructure projects across North America. She has held roles at firms such as Kiewit and Traylor Bros, contributing to civil projects in Canada and Hawaii. Currently, she is an engineer at HNTB, focusing on transportation and infrastructure in Southern California.

Outside her engineering career, Christina has a strong woodworking background. She has worked as a contractor in custom furniture and cabinetry, blending craftsmanship with design. These skills are central to Girl Buildrs, where participants gain hands-on experience using real tools to build meaningful projects.

Christina created Girl Buildrs to provide a space where girls and women can build, explore, and lead with confidence. Through practical projects and community-building, Girl Buildrs helps girls see themselves as future builders and leaders.

Christina is a huge soccer fan who played club soccer growing up. She is also a creative maker and remains committed to youth development, creativity, and empowering girls with the tools to build what matters.

BOARD TREASURER

Bethany Tipton Gillingham is an experienced educational leader with a deep passion for special education, teacher effectiveness, and inclusive education. With over a decade of experience in instructional coaching, program coordination, and special education leadership, she has dedicated her career to supporting educators and improving student outcomes.

Bethany currently serves as an Instructional Coordinator for Inclusion at Logan Memorial Educational Campus, where she leads professional development, implements policies to support equitable access, and mentors teachers. Previously, she was the Assistant Director of Special Education at Julian Charter Schools, collaborating with various educational programs to ensure compliance, effective staffing, and teacher growth.

Her passion for supporting new teachers is evident in her eight years as a mentor teacher and five years as an induction teacher, guiding educators in building strong instructional practices. As an instructor at High Tech High, she taught courses on reading instruction and case management, reinforcing her commitment to professional development.

Bethany holds a Master’s in Special Education from Loyola Marymount University and a Bachelor of Science from Point Loma Nazarene University.

Beyond education, Bethany is a passionate soccer enthusiast, recognizing the sport’s ability to teach teamwork, perseverance, and discipline—values she brings into her work with educators and students. She continues to develop innovative strategies to enhance teacher preparation and effectiveness, ensuring that all students, especially those in special education, receive high-quality, equitable education.

BOARD SECRETARY

David is a passionate educator, builder, and lifelong learner dedicated to inspiring curiosity and innovation in students. With a background in low-voltage electrical work, he developed a deep appreciation for problem-solving and hands-on learning.

David is currently a Director of a Middle school in San Diego. And has taught math and life science to 7th and 8th graders. His commitment to project-based learning led to impactful student experiences, such as designing zoo enclosures for the San Diego Zoo and constructing steel marble roller coasters to explore physics concepts. He also co-directed the Summer Bridge Program for incoming 6th graders for five years.

He later served as Dean of Students at High Tech Middle Media Arts, where he focused on fostering a positive school culture through meaningful relationships. Now as Director, he collaborates with colleagues to ensure every student receives a high-quality education and enriching school experience.

David holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics from National University, a teaching credential in mathematics and science from High Tech High Graduate School of Education, and a Master’s in Education in School Leadership. He also earned his preliminary Administrative Credential through the San Diego County Office of Education.

Beyond education, David has traveled the world, including Paris, Mexico, South Africa, and Italy. In his free time, he enjoys boogie boarding, playing the drums, and improving his golf game.