"We make electronic textiles, and the word "textile" always makes people think of shirts and socks. In reality, we manufacture electronic components for cars, robots, and more. They would be surprised to know that we dont spend much time weaving and sewing and spend most of our time testing the electrical performance of components and laminating things."
Madison Maxey is an African American engineer, entrepreneur, and designer known for her innovations with e-textiles and advanced materials.
"I think I would spend one hour walking around somewhere nice, one hour at a nice symphony or jazz show, one hour cooking and eating something nice, and the rest of the day I would spend in a lab with exciting tools and materials to use for developing new things."
"We do work for engineers and designers making next-generation products. Im super motivated by how we can help them do their work with our materials. I also love research, so Im always excited to hear what the team has been up to and what breakthroughs weve made on a Monday morning."
"To be honest, the work we do has a very small impact on the world right now. We make components, so we help products be a little easier to make or work a little better. Its a small impact, but its exciting for us and for our customers."
"Getting a new process into production is an exercise in resilience. We are constantly trying to troubleshoot unexpected issues, and the unknown can be difficult. However, this is also what makes the work mentally stimulating and fun!"
"The invention for sure! I work more on the business and strategy side these days, but I love it when I get the chance to see parts from the factory, or see prototypes. Its really satisfying to see ideas become real through engineering, design, prototyping, and production."
"More than anything, I think its important to be a critical problem solver when working with new technologies. If something youre doing isnt working, dont worry, wine, or wander around. Just change one variable, try again, and measure the result. Eventually, youll get there!"