In March 2025, Dennis became the Makespace Program Coordinator after spending years in the federal public service. Looking for a change, he came across this role and saw something exciting.
He had heard about Yukonstruct before, but when he learned more, he found a community filled with creativity, collaboration, and great people. Now, he is ready to dive in, build programs, support makers, and explore everything Yukonstruct has to offer.
What do you like to make?
Most of what I create revolves around my love for music and writing. I’ve put together booklets and recordings to share with family and friends. I also enjoy maintaining and repairing older video game hardware and stereo systems, keeping them in good working condition.
What has been your favorite project so far?
One memorable experience was when I was offering my repair skills publicly, and someone reached out about their handheld video game system that had stopped working. After discussing the issue, I managed to complete a simple fix using parts I already had. When I returned the system in working condition, the person’s excitement made the whole experience special. That positive response was what made the project truly rewarding.
What do you want to build at Yukonstruct?
I want to sharpen my skills in electronics repair since I haven’t spent much time on it in recent years. Yukonstruct offers a great opportunity to dive back into this craft, learn new techniques, and work alongside others who share the same passion.
What advice do you have for other makers in the Yukon?
Ask for help! I’ve been so impressed by the skills and knowledge of all of our members, and their grace in sharing that and encouraging others have been inspirational.
What’s the funniest thing that’s happened to you while making something?
We were trying to come up with new demonstrations at a previous job and my colleagues were floating the idea of doing some firebreathing using cornstarch, as one show we were working on was themed around fire. We were testing and taking videos, without thinking too much about our location inside a warehouse with a fair amount of irreplaceable artifacts nearby. We shared our success with colleagues, but our supervisor nearly had a silent aneurysm when she saw what we had been doing. Her response was very measured and considerate, but needless to say I have used more precaution and thought when trying new things since then.
What inspires you to make things?
The people around me mostly, and the incredible creative processes I see.
What are you working on now?
Summer camp activities… :-p
(Dennis has been involved with kids’ camps and summer programs from the moment he joined our team. To explore the latest STEAM Maker Summer Camp, click here).
Here’s a couple of picture of the recent Wax Casting Demonstration with Allyson Simmie.
When you aren’t making things, what other interests take up your time?
Taking care of our two young children, getting outside when we can, and collecting and enjoying old media, especially video games, records, books and movies.
Thank you for sharing these and welcome to the team, Dennis!