sandee kastrul

Sandee Kastrul is a visionary educator, entrepreneur, and community builder who has dedicated her career to transforming how people learn, lead, and connect through technology. As Co-Founder and CEO of i.c.stars, she created one of the most respected leadership and technology training programs in the country—an immersive, project-based experience that helps future technologists launch careers while driving innovation in Fortune 500 companies.

Under Sandee’s leadership, i.c.stars grew into a national movement, expanding from Chicago to Milwaukee and Kansas City and building a powerful network of over 10,000 business and technology leaders. Her model has inspired dozens of alumni-led startups and a new generation of socially conscious tech professionals.

Before launching i.c.stars, Sandee taught science, social studies, and computer skills across Chicago schools and community programs, always centering creativity, access, and empowerment. Her early work in arts education and youth development—at organizations like Imagination Theater, Jobs for Youth, and Child’s Play Touring Theater—helped shape her lifelong belief that leadership begins with learning by doing.

Today at the Mary N. Chaney Cybersecurity Training Center, Sandee brings that same energy and innovation to her role as Lead Faculty and Instructional Coordinator. She guides program design for the Cybersecurity Residency Program, mentors instructors, and ensures every learning experience blends technical skill with leadership and purpose.

A frequent keynote speaker and thought leader, Sandee has shared her insights on technology, equity, and community across the U.S. and abroad. She also serves on multiple advisory boards, including the American Library Association, Chicago Innovation Awards, and the Axelson Center for Nonprofit Management.

Sandee believes that technology education can be a force for social change—and she’s spent her career proving it.