Empowering Instructors

In my role at Seattle University's Billodue Makerspace, I manage a staff team of 19 students. Some found the job by happenstance, others started as regulars who sought the chance to work in one of their favorite places. No pre-existing knowledge is required; once hired, other student staff or I or preferably all of us as a group, will teach and learn from each other as the job progresses. The list of "skills" needed for this job is endless: how to oil an embroidery machine, how to diffuse and redirect a frustrated visitor, how to teach not one but a group of people how to scour and break glass into unique shapes, how to troubleshoot Adobe Illustrator in the process of outputting a vector to the laser engraver. It's actually absurd how much they need to know and understand, but this is what's expected...by me.

I believe every human is full of power and potential. Yet, I also know that many of those who hold decision-making power in our society attempt pacify our voices and diminish that power. This is why it's important for me to empower my staff with as much knowledge and support as possible.

I aim to facilitate their growth and support them wherever that process might lead while providing space and leeway for their own spark to ignite. This is especially true with helping them to become instructors of workshops and trainings. One staff designed, patterned and prototyped a custom chalk bag which he then taught others how to sew for themselves. Another staff created a detailed course outline for an intro to knitting workshop. Some have created various project-based crochet classes while others have lead workshops on bike maintenance, clothing repairs, stained glass and much more.