Shannon Anderson,
Communications Director
The Innovation Hub, North Little Rock
Shannon Anderson joined The Innovation Hub seven years ago. The goal was to use her 35-year knowledge of graphic design in new ways — utilizing state-of-the-art tools such as 3D printers and laser-cutters — to launch a new business. Within six months, she was on a different mission — teaching vector design and digital fabrication to other makers and artists.
“The Hub was designed to give people the space to share knowledge, learn new skills and kickstart new businesses,” Anderson said. The Innovation Hub is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of Arkansans by inspiring innovation and expanding opportunities. Its 22,000-square-foot facility in the Argenta district includes a makerspace with a woodshop, a tech lab and art studios along with space for co-working and events.
In 2018, Anderson took the Hub’s new Mobile Makerspace (MMS) unit, the “Hub On Wheels,” to schools and community centers across the state to engage both youth and adults in STEAM education. Over the past three years, the MMS has visited 20 counties and reached more than 16,000 Arkansans.
