WHO WE ARE
Vidette Makes is a community-driven organization founded to connect and empower makers of all backgrounds across Northwest Indiana. What began nearly eight years ago as a small gathering of developers, engineers, artists, and entrepreneurs in a local brewery has grown into a dynamic collective of professionals, creatives, and enthusiasts. Our members come together to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects that spark innovation and creativity. In 2020, we formalized our efforts by establishing Vidette Makes as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, with the goal of providing accessible opportunities for learning, creating, and building meaningful projects. Today, we are proud to be a resource for the region, fostering a culture of collaboration, education, and sustainability, where makers of all kinds, whether through their hands, computers, or minds, can thrive and make an impact.
BOARD MEMBERS & TOP VOLUNTEERS
Chad, President
Chad as President of Vidette Makes, is pushing to enrich Valparaiso through unique educational projects, workshops, and community events. As a local business owner and sculptor, Chad blends his entrepreneurial spirit and creativity to lead the organization with energy and vision.
Placing emphasis on fostering collaboration and having a knack for turning ideas into action, Chad aims to grow both as a local community leader and as a champion for projects that make a difference. Whether brainstorming bold new initiatives or working alongside others, he’s committed to growing Vidette Makes further and stoking the fire of this network of talented individuals.
Everett, Vice President
Everett has taken on the role of Vice President of Vidette Makes, where he supports members in their mission to transform northwest Indiana into a technological hub through significant collaboration and information exchange. His ability to bring in new members has enriched our community, introducing a diverse array of interesting individuals who share a passion for technology. With a long-standing interest in the field, he aims to deepen his understanding even further.
He has showcased his enthusiasm by building custom arcade sticks and repairing game consoles for various presentations and demonstrations within the group. His fascination with technology has paved the way for a career in embedded programming and electrical design. A passionate tech enthusiast, Everett has actively participated in Vidette Makes since its beginning.
Dillon, Secretary
Dillon is a designer dedicated to making technology as accessible and user-friendly as possible, while also infusing it with artistic elements. Outside of his role as a software designer in Valparaiso, Dillon has channeled that same passion into Vidette Makes since its inception.
As Secretary, he applies his detail-oriented mindset and systems thinking to ensure that the “business” side of Vidette Makes operates smoothly, allowing for more time dedicated to community engagement and creativity. This also frees up time for him to enjoy 3D printing, drawing, and tabletop role-playing games.
Nick, Treasurer
Nick has been a dedicated teacher involved with Vidette Makes and its founding group since 2016. When he's not working with computer science and engineering students at VU to explore innovative solutions, he often assists others in navigating systems and addressing challenges. A passionate advocate for cybersecurity, Nick frequently engages with pressing questions in the digital realm, presenting on both breaking news and longstanding issues. Additionally, he has a deep-rooted enthusiasm for open source projects, serving as a fan, supporter, and occasional contributor.
In his role as treasurer, Nick manages the financial aspects of Vidette Makes, ensuring the group has the resources needed to participate in a variety of initiatives. He also oversees the official paperwork necessary for the group's continued success and growth in the region.
Ashley, Board Member
Ashley is a software developer by trade and an enthusiastic new addition to Vidette Makes, excited to dive into her first year on the board! With a passion for problem-solving and community-building, she’s ready to help wherever she can—including lending her web development skills to the organization.
When she’s not working in tech, Ashley stays busy volunteering with local theaters, crafting up a storm, and whipping up delicious homemade desserts. A proud mom and Star Wars fan, she loves sharing her geeky side with her kid through movie marathons and LEGO builds. She’s also known for bringing the best snacks to events, ensuring that creativity is always well-fueled. With her mix of technical expertise, creativity, and a nurturing spirit, Ashley is a fantastic addition to the Vidette Makes team!
Trisha, Board Member
Trisha is a seasoned data professional with over 20 years of experience in the non-profit sector, specializing in transforming raw data into meaningful insights and visually compelling narratives. She expertly combines her skills in CRM strategy, campaign management, and data visualization to uncover donor behavior trends, enhance campaign performance, and make data actionable. Among her many accomplishments, Trisha has set up analytics platforms, led teams in data hygiene and automation, and created visually stunning representations of complex data.Outside of her professional endeavors, Trisha actively volunteers in her community and embraces her creativity through various forms of crafting. She is looking forward to bringing her expertise to Vidette Makes.