MAKER
“My grandfather influenced me heavily to get into engineering and manufacturing as he worked for Electric Boat. I always looked up to him and wanted to be just like him.”
Audrey Larson
MEET AUDREY
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Hometown
Wallingford, CT
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Position
Student/Researcher/Entrepreneur
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University
University of Connecticut
Q&A
What do you do?
I study materials science and engineering at the University of Connecticut. At the university, I work on a personal research project looking at the implementation of plastic particles into concrete. Additionally, I have a small business called UNFOLDED, LLP that sells handmade jewelry and clothing. I’m also developing an app through UConn and the CT Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation that will help students to feel safer on college campuses. I also work at OPIM Innovate, an emerging technologies lab/makerspace on the campus where we help students to learn about topics such as 3D printing, robotics, coding, circuitry and virtual reality — topics that directly relate to career skills needed for careers in engineering and manufacturing.
How do you find meaning in it?
When I am working I always try to place my role into the bigger picture of things.
This helps me see that although my day-to-day tasks may be smaller, I still have an impact on the end result whether that is improving a students’ college experience through helping them at the makerspace, or finding a new discovery in the lab.
Do you have any advice for people thinking about manufacturing careers?
I would encourage people to just go for it — put yourself out there and try something new. There are a ton of resources about manufacturing careers. I’d encourage you to explore the different programs and opportunities that exist.
What do you like to do in your free time outside of work?
I love painting and art in general. Though I am not particularly talented, I love to relax and unwind through painting or drawing.