Applying engineering rigor and human-centered design to build durable learning, workforce, and organizational systems.
For 25 years, I worked in advanced engineering research and development, leading technical teams, managing laboratories, and designing precision systems in high-stakes environments. That work required disciplined experimentation, careful alignment, and the ability to operate under constraint.
Over the past decade, I have applied that same systems logic to education and workforce development - from national STEM initiatives to university-based experiential learning models.
Across contexts, my work centers on designing structures that enable people and institutions to solve complex problems more effectively, long after the initial engagement.
What I Do
Systems Architecture for Learning & Workforce
I work with institutions, districts, ministries, and organizations to design and strengthen:
Experiential learning models tied to real-world performance
Capstone and project-based learning systems
Workforce-aligned competency structures
Institutional processes that support sustained innovation
My work integrates engineering design processes, human-centered design, and structured iteration to create systems that are clear, adaptable, and durable.
Experience Across Scales
Engineering & Innovation Systems
At Battelle, I led photonics and microfabrication programs, managed multidisciplinary teams, secured U.S. patents, and directed intellectual property and commercialization strategy. This foundation continues to inform how I approach complex institutional design.
National & International Education Infrastructure
In partnership with Egypt’s Ministry of Education through USAID-supported initiatives, I led capstone redesign, strengthening, and sustainable systems support across a new national STEM high school network. That work involved guiding educators and leaders through iterative design processes and embedding sustainable engineering design models within the system itself.
I have also contributed to statewide STEM infrastructure development as the founding project manager of the Ohio STEM Learning Network and supported STEM ecosystem initiatives in multiple regions across the country.
University Experiential Systems
As Director of the Red Frame Lab at Denison University, I design experiential consulting and entrepreneurship systems that integrate real clients, structured reflection, and professional development into scalable institutional models. During the COVID-19 disruption, I led the rapid development of a 102-student virtual consulting platform serving clients across time zones - applying structured design under urgent constraint.
How I Work
My approach is grounded in systems thinking and disciplined design processes.
Understand the environment and stakeholders before proposing solutions
Surface the expertise already present within the organizations
Design with sustainability in mind
Build processes that leaders and teams can continue to use independently
The goal is not a temporary intervention. The goal is durable improvement.
Engagement
I partner with:
Universities seeking to strengthen experiential learning infrastructure
School systems and districts building STEM and capstone systems
Employers and workforce organizations aligning learning with performance outcomes
Leadership teams navigating complex institutional change
Engagements range from strategic system design to facilitated design sprints that translate strategy into operational models.