The Makerspace Coach is responsible for setting up, managing, and maintaining a fully functional Design & Technology (D&T) lab within an educational institution or innovation hub. The coach will guide and inspire school students and adult professionals to explore hands-on learning, design thinking, and fabrication techniques. A core component of the role is to coach and mentor participants to evolve into confident D&T trainers themselves, cultivating a culture of creativity, innovation, and self-directed learning.

• Establish and organize the Design & Technology lab infrastructure, equipment, and safety protocols.
• Plan and facilitate workshops on design thinking, digital fabrication (3D printing, laser cutting, CNC, etc.), electronics, prototyping, and STEM integration.
• Mentor school students in hands-on project development, ideation, and technical skills.
• Train and guide professionals to become effective D&T educators/trainers.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and inventory in the lab; ensure regular calibration and safety checks.
• Design progressive learning modules and project challenges aligned with curriculum or skill-building outcomes.
• Foster an inclusive, problem-solving, and collaborative environment within the makerspace.
• Track learner progress and provide constructive feedback.
• Collaborate with school leadership and STEM program partners to align lab activities with broader educational goals.
  

• Strong foundation in design and technology education (mechanical design, electronics, CAD/CAM, robotics, etc.).
• Understanding of fabrication tools and software (e.g., Tinkercad, Fusion 360, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, 3D printers, laser cutters).
• Familiarity with maker education principles, project-based learning, and design thinking methodologies.
• Knowledge of pedagogy, especially in STEM or D&T training for diverse age groups.
• Awareness of lab safety standards and equipment handling protocols.
  

• Hands-on technical proficiency with prototyping and digital fabrication tools.
• Strong facilitation, mentoring, and instructional skills for both students and adult learners.
• Excellent organizational and lab management skills.
• Ability to scaffold learning and break down complex concepts into accessible experiences.
• Problem-solving, troubleshooting, and innovation mindset.
• Communication and interpersonal skills to engage with learners, educators, and stakeholders.
• Project documentation and curriculum design.
  

• Curious and self-driven learner.
• Adaptable and resilient in the face of new tools or teaching challenges.
• Collaborative and team-oriented.
• Empathetic and student-focused.
• Resourceful and inventive – finds ways to do more with less.
• Patient and encouraging as a mentor.
  

• Sees oneself as a mentor, maker, and facilitator of learning.
• Views the role as a catalyst for nurturing creativity, innovation, and technical skills.
• Believes in the transformative power of hands-on education and real-world problem-solving.
• Identifies as a lifelong learner and community builder.
  

• Passionate about enabling others to learn by doing.
• Driven by the impact of empowering students and educators with design and tech skills.
• Motivated by the challenge of building new systems, labs, and learning ecosystems.
• Enjoys seeing learners grow from novice to confident creators and trainers.