We have three seats on the board open this election cycle. Five awesome folks have stepped up as candidates. Get to know the candidates:
Mark Johnsen
@floppydisk
Why you want to be on the board at AMT?
I love what AMT offers to the community and want to see grow and expand. Also, I think I can add to the vision and operations of AMT.
What are one or two things you would get done if you were elected?
I’d like to ensure AMT can continue to grow and function by driving pragmatic fire and safety policies as well as acquire grants and funding. Also, I’d like to video tape some training sessions and more complicated ‘how-to’s” for equipment such as the Laser, 3d Printers, and CNC equipment to assist the community.
Jacob Mowbray
@jacob
Why you want to be on the board at AMT?
I love AMT, and I’m dedicated to supporting our space’s continued success. Having served in two different leadership roles, I know the positive impact I can have as a Board Member. My aim is to serve AMT in the best way I can.
What are one or two things you would get done if you were elected?
As Board Director, my focus would be on improving the processes and procedures which govern AMT. Specifically, I would work to clarify officer roles & responsibilities, stabilizing a healthy leadership. Additionally, I would build a structured fundraising system, allowing our space to upgrade vital equipment, cover operating overhead, and raise the quality of our shared Maker Life.
Jacob LaBay
@jacoblabay
Why you want to be on the board at AMT?
What I lack in technical knowledge, I make up for in nonprofit knowledge. I would like to offer my fundraising skills to AMT. In my current job in development, I work with a board, and have always wanted to sit on the other side of the desk and see what it is like to serve on a board of a nonprofit.
What are one or two things you would get done if you were elected?
I would like to find additional sources of funding for AMT, such as grants and scholarships.
Pierre Grandin
@pierre
Why you want to be on the board at AMT?
We still have some work to finish. Being part of the board has been a rewarding experience for me so far, and I would like to continue to contribute.
What are one or two things you would get done if you were elected?
Bylaws update, and trying to better support the officers.
Dylan Cheasty
@dylan
Why you want to be on the board at AMT?
Ace Monster Toys is an amazing community and an excellent hacker resource. As the organization has grown, we need to change some parts of how we do things. I want to help see that those changes go well and make sure AMT continues to thrive.
What are one or two things you would get done if you were elected?
Officers and stewards do so much good for AMT. However, many positions get overburdened, and need easier ways to get support. We can help AMT accomplish more maintenance and improvements, and keep our stewards and officers happier, by revisiting how those roles are defined. Additionally, many people at AMT want to help out, but the current positions do not work for them. Adding a lower commitment way, but with some structure, such as “apprentice steward” groups, could be a neat option for people to help out and learn about the areas they are interested in, while enabling stewards to implement the special improvement projects they otherwise don’t have time for. Alternatively, stewards could be assigned special overhaul days throughout the year. Also, I’d like to increase AMT’s ability to get revenue from outside sources. The roles of President and Treasurer are already quite full, so creating a new officer position may be necessary.
