Staff Profile: Elissa Avelar

Makerspace Manager Elissa Avelar has been at Harvey Mudd College for six years. In the makerspace, she’s the person behind the scenes making sure student leaders and users have what they need to bring their projects to life. “Our Stewards are the ones who are hands-on with the tools, teaching others, troubleshooting equipment and helping keep the space running,” she says. “My role is to support them in navigating policies, managing safety guidelines and stepping in when they face interpersonal challenges or need help thinking through a situation. I also help with programming and ensuring the environment feels welcoming and inclusive. At its core, though, my work is really about community, student growth and giving users the support they need to succeed.” Learn more about Elissa, including something people don’t usually know about her job, in this Q-andA.

What is your favorite part about your job and why?

One of my favorite parts of the job is getting to work closely with students and highlighting the incredible projects that come out of this space. We offer so many opportunities for users to create and explore skills they may not have discovered otherwise. With our monthly steward-led workshops and student project grants, there are countless ways to spark creativity and uncover new passions. What I appreciate most, though, is working with our student leaders. They’re the heart of the makerspace, and watching them take initiative, handle challenges and grow into their roles is really rewarding.

What is something people don’t understand about your job that you wish they did?

Something people don’t always realize about my job is how different each day can be and how much of it happens behind the scenes. One day I might be at the steel yard, the next I could be picking up materials at a local fabric store and the following day I might be hosting a workshop. Beyond the hands-on work, a lot of my role involves checking in with students, helping them navigate tough conversations, coordinating with departments across campus and keeping the space running smoothly. It’s about community, connection and collaboration more than anything else.

What’s your favorite food/dish in the Hoch-Shanahan Dining Hall?

Pho.

What is your favorite hobby, activity or creative outlet?

Over the last two and a half years, I’ve really fallen in love with running. My running community has pushed me to milestones I never imagined, from completing a relay race from L.A. to San Diego as part of an all-women team to conquering my first international race in Mexico City to running my first World Marathon Major in Chicago. I can’t wait to see where running will take me next.

Are you studying or learning something new?

Yoga! It’s a perfect way to relax and help my body recover from running.

What is the last concert you attended?

Bad Bunny! I enjoy live shows, so I try to catch a few concerts each year.