Make48: "Do you know how many events you've been in?"
Tyler: "Oh. It's a lot."
Tyler Isaacs, a Make48 Tool Tech, reflects on his journey in the maker scene, a path paved with countless events, adrenaline-fueled innovation, and the camaraderie of like-minded creators.
The Make48 Journey
From his debut in 2021, Tyler has been drawn back to the creative chaos time and again. It's the shared passion, the thrill of witnessing ideas materialize, and the "calm of realizing it's always going to work" amidst the "craziness of the make" that fuels his enthusiasm.
With 17 Make48 competitions under his belt (so far), Tyler's background in manufacturing and engineering lends him a unique perspective. He observes, analyzes, and recognizes patterns and strengths within teams.
“Good communication within a team fosters a positive and productive atmosphere,” Tyler disclosed. “It's contagious and spreads enthusiasm. For me, having been in manufacturing and large engineering teams with hands-on creative environments, you see people working together and taking advantage of those strengths as a team. Much similar to Make48.” Tyler gets inspired by those who approach challenges with calm and focus, maximizing their skills, like the impressive Delta School team at (Season 7) Nationals.
Teaching and Inspiring
Beyond the events, Tyler finds fulfillment in teaching, sharing his knowledge, and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Many of those who have come through Make48 have found Tyler to be a mentor. Miles Davis, one of our youngest Tool Techs, has looked up to Tyler. “If you give someone a skill, they remember the moment,” Tyler noted. Cherishing those "epiphany moments when a new skill or understanding clicks leaves a lasting impact. And at every Make48 event, we get to do that multiple times. Those moments stick with us.”
Tyler's journey has transformed his perspective on inspiration. Once a "fanboy" of prominent makers, he now admires those who pour their heart and soul into their craft, balancing passion with the realities of running a successful business. “I’m particularly interested in how to build a successful business around this passion. So many lose their passion when running a business.”
For Tyler, the maker community is a vibrant tapestry of passionate individuals eager to share their stories and inspire others. It's a community that fuels his drive, motivating him to understand the delicate balance between creativity and entrepreneurship.
A Father's Perspective
Not only does Tyler want to inspire others in the Maker community, but also those closest to his heart. In March of 2023, he became a girl dad! When asked how he would empower his little girl in the workshop, Tyler’s eyes lit up. “I already got her in the shop! She's got her own little tools and she wears overalls. I’m going to encourage her curiosity and provide her with as many hands-on experiences as possible. I see her learning from me, and vice-versa. I’m more aware of the impact of my actions and words."
"Fatherhood has given me this new perspective on my own mistakes and successes because I see my daughter mirroring my behavior. There’s nothing I value more than these learning opportunities that come with being a parent. And I’m loving every moment.”
The Journey Continues
This maker's journey is far from over. “I’ve had dreams of being an astronaut that I’m still not giving up on! However, after working in professional engineering at Blue Origin for 8 years, some of my priorities have shifted. I see more value in educating, inspiring, and contributing to the community than titles, paychecks, and other traditional markers of success. For me, passion lies in making a positive impact rather than pursuing external validations.”
Tyler's story is a testament to the transformative power of the maker movement. It's a narrative of passion, growth, and the enduring inspiration found in a community of creators. Learn more about Tyler at his website https://woodenwhiskers.org/ and follow him on Instagram @https://www.instagram.com/woodenwhiskerstrading/?hl=en
Next time you see Tyler, sit down with him to learn more about our favorite Florida Man!
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