“Wouldn’t it be cool if we…”
If I had a dollar for every time I said that phrase I would likely be typing this on a beach somewhere. Instead I am typing it covered in dust, wood glue, while smelling like a Home Depot in an office space attached to my shop. Now as dramatic and, perhaps, traumatic as that may seem it is where the idea for Maker Movement was made. (pun intended)
Since 2021 I have run a CNC machining business specializing in manufacturing custom parts, components, and signage while at the same time attending Saint Bonaventure University. During my senior year of college I was fortunate enough to be a member of the Laine Business Accelerator 2022 Cohort alongside 8 other companies looking to GROW. The whole mantra of this accelerator was to take our existing businesses to the next level and really understand our personal reasons for “why” we do what we do.
I love working with my hands and I think it is the most gratifying thing someone can do. I just wish I could help everyone experience that.
The Japanese have a word for this: ikigai. They believe that your ikigai is a combination of what you are skilled at, what you are passionate about, what the world needs, and what you can create a career around. When one solution meets all of those criteria, you've found your ikigai. I wished I could share my passion for Making while having a serious impact on those around me and truly make a difference in this world. In order to do that, I knew that I would need to tap into more resources…. phone ringing noise*
"Mr. Gill, how are you? I have an idea I want to run past you."