#PeopleofSTEAM: Meet Jay

Jay Flores is a Global STEM Ambassador, founder of Invent The Change, and a two-time semifinalist on NBC’s hit sports entertainment reality show, American Ninja Warrior. He is one of the most influential voices in STEM, reaching millions of students every month as a member of Discovery Education’s Mystery Science Team and through his brand “It’s Not Magic, It’s Science!” which uses the entertainment factor of magic to increase excitement and awareness in STEM with science experiments disguised as magic tricks. Jay has been a proud supporter of FIRST^® for over a decade and tirelessly creates and seizes opportunities to advocate for the FIRST mission, FIRST programs, and FIRST participants. 

Continue reading to learn more about Jay’s STEAM journey.

FIRST Staff: Can you share some information about your current work as a Global STEM ambassador?  
 
Jay: As a Global STEM Ambassador, I inspire young minds by making STEM accessible and exciting. Through my role in Discovery Education’s Mystery Science and my brand “It’s Not Magic, It’s Science!,” I reach millions of students, answering their curious questions and showing how STEM impacts everyday life. My work also involves speaking engagements, where I connect with students, educators, and industry leaders to promote innovation and equitable access to STEM education. 
 

FIRST Staff: What is your favorite part of working as an entrepreneur in the world of STEM?

Jay: My favorite part is sparking curiosity and excitement in young minds. As an entrepreneur, I have the freedom to innovate and create experiences like “It’s Not Magic, It’s Science!," which uses entertainment to make STEM accessible to all. Seeing the "aha" moments when students realize the magic of science is incredibly rewarding. 
 

FIRST Staff: What is the hardest part of your job?  
 
Jay: The hardest part is overcoming the barriers to equitable access in STEM education. Many students still lack the resources or opportunities to explore STEM fully. It’s challenging to address these gaps, but it drives my commitment to creating innovative solutions that reach and inspire every child, regardless of their background. 
 

FIRST Staff: You have competed on two seasons of NBC's hit show American Ninja Warrior. Can you talk about your experience on the show and why you chose to use your participation as a platform to promote STEM education for youth? 
 
Jay: Competing on American Ninja Warrior was a dream come true and an incredible platform to promote STEM. I used my participation to demonstrate how perseverance, problem-solving, and STEM skills are interconnected. My goal was to inspire young viewers to pursue STEM, showing them that with the right mindset, they can overcome any obstacle and invent the change they want to see in the world. 
 

FIRST Staff: How do you use STEAM skills in your everyday work/life?  
 
Jay: I use STEAM skills daily, from problem-solving and creative thinking in business decisions to developing new STEAM experiences that engage students. Whether it’s designing a science experiment or strategizing for a live show, STEAM principles guide my approach, helping me innovate and inspire others. 
 

FIRST Staff: Can you share your thoughts on the impact of your personal/professional work in STEAM? 
 
Jay: I believe my work is creating a significant impact by making STEAM education more engaging and accessible. Through initiatives like “It’s Not Magic, It’s Science!," I’m helping to increase STEAM identity and inspire the next generation of innovators. By reaching millions of students, I’m contributing to a future where STEAM is inclusive and exciting for all. 
 

FIRST Staff: Who is a “Person of STEAM” who inspires you?  
 
Jay: One person who inspires me is Katya Echazarreta, the first Mexican-born woman to travel to space. Her journey from a young immigrant to a NASA engineer and astronaut embodies the power of perseverance and passion. Her achievements in STEAM and her commitment to inspiring young people to pursue their dreams resonate deeply with my mission. She’s a powerful example of breaking barriers and using one’s platform to make a difference. 
 

FIRST Staff: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?  
 
Jay: I would tell my younger self to embrace failure as a learning opportunity. Every setback is a chance to grow, and perseverance is key to achieving your dreams. Don’t be afraid to take risks and always stay curious—you never know what amazing things you’ll discover. 
 

FIRST Staff: Do you have a message you want to share for students who are participating in FIRST today? 

Jay: Keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible! Every challenge you face is an opportunity to innovate and learn. Remember, the skills you’re developing—teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity—are the foundation for making a real impact in the world. Keep dreaming big and inventing the future! 

Are you a person of STEAM? Share your story with #PeopleofSTEAM on social media or send us your story at marketing@firstinspires.org.