maker
/ˈmeɪkə/noun
a person or thing that makes or produces something.
“the maker’s name is stamped on the back”
Making Makers is inspired by Anderson’s belief that “transformative change happens when industries democratize“.
We provide research, education, training, research and analysis across multiple fields. Making Makers works with project leaders to embed design systems and tools into their enterprises to grow their business. Making Makers is unique in its ability to create evidence-based engagement that produces a significant market effect. Making Makers seeks to partner with researchers, designers and entrepreneurs to provide systems thinking, design tools and practices that build capacity and capability. Through our own research, we create evidence-based engagement that promotes the societal and educative benefits of making.
STEWARDSHIP 
PARTNERSHIPS 
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
I am an experienced designer, a full professor, an internationally recognized academic leader and a practiced small business person who brings an entrepreneurial approach to research. My expertise ranges from design sustainability and textile futures to digital communication strategy. I am recognised for my ability to bring together digital technologies and multi-disciplinary teams to support innovation across multiple sectors.
With more than 100 publications, 4 national awards and 25 years of experience in cultural research, teaching and design practice, I am regularly invited to provide leadership to the cultural sector. My grant writing and development has resulted in over $12m in grants over 12 years. I am an experienced grant reviewer with particular expertise in DECRAs.
I am recognised for my extensive social enterprise experience as a co-founder of the 4000 member global network, Museum3, an early cultural social media network turned NFP that ran for 8 years (2006 – 2014) providing an invaluable resource to the cultural sector. In 2018 I created Making Makers, a consultancy that offers Research Stewardship, Bespoke Product Development and Partnership and Network Development. My entrepreneurial approach to maker activities includes “MAKEBREAK” digital fabrication training for new migrants, a nested program of innovation and wellbeing, workshops in Zero Food Waste in the Workplace and “BisMakers: An Unusual Craft Affair” which bring senior artisans together with emerging digital artisans to share skills and knowledge that translates into business opportunity.
My achievements and previous appointments include:
· Associate Dean Research, University of Canberra
· Professor of Cultural Practice, University of Canberra (2013-2016)
· Director of Higher Degrees Research, RMIT University (2010-2013)
· Investigator, ARC Centre of Excellence for Creative Industries Innovation and Head of Communication Design, Queensland University of Technology
· MBA, University College London (2014)
· PhD in Architecture and Design, UniSA (2004)
· Queensland Premiers’ Smithsonian Fellowship, New York
· Australian Post-graduate Industry Award, resulting in AU $1.1 million grant funding
· Australian Wool Fashion Design Awards (first prize, 2011 and 2016).
· Member of the Fulbright Scholarship Committee
· Australian Research Council Assessor
· Member Australian Institute of Company Directors
Certificate 4, Small Business Management