About the Innovation Studio
Learn. Collaborate. Prototype.
Whatever you’re building, our specialists can help you bring it to life. Find us on the second floor of the Plaster Center, the innovation heartbeat of the School of Science and Technology.
Our Purpose
From advanced fabrication tools to immersive spatial computing, the studio gives users across campus, industry and the Kansas City community access to a future-ready maker environment.
Vision
The Innovation Studio will become Kansas City’s most trusted place to explore what’s possible. It will be a hub where students, researchers, entrepreneurs and industry leaders come together to test ideas, share knowledge and shape the region’s next breakthroughs.
We see a future where hands-on discovery sparks collaboration across disciplines and where those collaborations push our community toward smarter solutions and more meaningful impact.
Mission
We will empower every maker, thinker and problem-solver who walks through our doors with the technology, guidance and collaborative energy they need to bring their bold ideas to life.
We will offer access to a versatile ecosystem of fabrication tools, immersive digital environments and experienced specialists who help users experiment boldly, where we can support the full journey from “what if?” to “here it is.”
Our Team
Christina Davis Director, Plaster Center – Innovation Studio Email: davischristina@umkc.edu About: Christina Davis has acted as a Director for the UMKC School of Science and Engineering (SSE) since 2010. Christina’s responsibilities include building relationships with companies, professional organizations and fellow educational institutions to identify and execute new program opportunities, both domestic and international. She currently serves as Director of the Innovation Studio, located in the Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise and Research Center.
Brian Kanoy Fabrication Shop Manager - Innovation Studio Email: bkanoy@umkc.edu About: Brian serves as the Fabrication Shop Manager and also runs the 3D Printing Lab. A certified aircraft mechanic and lifelong fabricator, Brian uses his wide-ranging experience to support the Innovation Studio, and can help with training or assistance in tool use and techniques, along with consultation on construction of your prototype or design.
Joseph Sailor Usher VR Coordinator - Innovation Studio Email: jsusher@umkc.edu