About

I've spent my career at the intersection of craft and technology, designing and building things that aim to inspire wonder, joy, and life-long memories.

I started with a BA in Art from UW–Whitewater and found my way into exhibits, eventually serving as an Exhibit Director at both Betty Brinn Children's Museum and Discovery Center Museum. There I led gallery renovations, supported international travelling exhibits, developed makerspace programs, and kept full museums of hands-on exhibits running for thousands of visitors. Through my own business, Cook's Handywork, I've worked with dozens of museums across North America as an exhibit consultant, building a network of trusted subcontractors along the way.

More recently, I've worked in high-end events, most recently as Fabrication Manager at Events By Design, leading shop production and on-site installs for weddings, fundraisers, and corporate events, including work for the Milwaukee Bucks and the Philadelphia Eagles.

What ties it together is the full arc of a project. I sketch and model concepts in SketchUp, produce shop drawings, estimate labor and materials, run CNC and fabrication, and lead crews on site, whether that's my own team, union stagehands, or a mix of subcontractors and first-timers. I care about getting it built right, keeping people safe, and making sure the crew gets home in one piece.

When I'm not tinkering in the shop I am a husband to an accomplished events/communication dynamo and a father to a very silly goose. I spend time watching baseball and getting outdoors when possible.

I'm currently looking for my next full-time role in interactive & spatial design, estimation, fabrication management, or project management. Based in the Milwaukee area and open to Chicago-area, hybrid, or remote roles.