DJ Dillon, a former Senior Prototyping Associate at Protostudios and a 2024 Mechanical Engineering and Art graduate from the University of Iowa has started a new role as Makerspace Program Coordinator at Unity Point's Generate lab powered by MakerHealth.
Building a Career in Healthcare Innovation
In his role as the Makerspace Program Coordinator, DJ is guiding clinicians through the process of prototyping and designing new medical tools, devices, and educational models.
“I am excited to help push innovation forward in the healthcare community,” DJ shared. His day-to-day responsibilities involve working side by side with clinicians, ensuring they have the resources and guidance to create solutions that directly impact patient care. From designing educational models of a pancreas with interactive lighting to helping nurses prototype a portable cooler for insulin storage, DJ is at the heart of healthcare innovation.
Gaining Expertise at Protostudios
DJ’s journey began with Protostudios in 2020, where he worked for over three years while studying mechanical engineering and the arts at the University of Iowa. As a member of our team, he gained hands-on experience with 3D printing technology, focusing on projects that directly benefited the healthcare community.
One notable project involved creating 3D-printed models of pediatric patients’ hands and feet for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. After receiving molds from Children’s Hospital staff, DJ’s job was to clean up the mold, create a 3D scan, and print high-quality 3D models which were given to families to remember their children.
Preparing for the Future
During his time at Protostudios, DJ developed a broad range of technical skills that have been instrumental in his new role at UnityPoint Health. Exposure to processes like injection molding, high-end resin printing, and managing complex client projects helped him build the confidence and expertise necessary to succeed in his current position.
“Protostudios gave me the opportunity to lead projects from start to finish, working directly with clients to solve problems and bring their ideas to life,” DJ said. The mentorship he received from the Protostudios team, including guidance from Mike Sneller and Chuck Romans, helped him grow both professionally and personally.
A Collaborative Approach to Innovation
At UnityPoint Health, DJ’s role focuses on empowering healthcare professionals to take ownership of the innovation process. “The big difference here is that we’re putting clinicians in the driver’s seat, helping them take charge of their own innovations, said DJ. The makerspace is open to the whole hospital, and he has worked with everyone from helicopter pilots to nurses. Whatever their role is within the hospital, DJ is there to support and collaborate with them every step of the way.
Looking Ahead
DJ’s journey from Protostudios to UnityPoint Health's Generate lab is a testament to the value of hands-on experience, mentorship, and the power of collaboration. His ability to take on complex challenges with confidence and guide healthcare professionals through the prototyping process is a reflection of the skills and expertise he developed with us at Protostudios. We’re proud to see DJ excel in his new role and look forward to following his continued success.
If you'd like to learn more about Unity Point's Generate lab powered by MakerHealth, you can read more here.
