Amon Millner is an Associate Professor of Computing and Innovation at the Olin College of Engineering. He directs the Extending Access to STEM Empowerment (EASE) Lab. He teaches courses, engages in research, and releases products guided by his mantra: make things; make a difference; make your way. Millner develops systems that lower the barrier for entry into computing, electronics, and digital fabrication activities, in service of creating contexts that help people become more empowered as contributors to their communities. The Scratch programming language and Fab Lab community centers for local invention are example efforts for which Millner has served on the core team. His Lab at Olin launched a startup called Unruly Studios, which released Unruly Splats: programmable light-up floor tiles designed to put physical play at the core of coding with classmates. Millner, who holds degrees from MIT, Georgia Tech, and USC, is known to some students as Dr. Splat.

What are you most proud of in your work or life?

Opening the door for countless young people who might have not explored computer programming without some of the tools and environments I have helped to create.

What are your passions and hobbies?

Capoeira Angola, spades, sports

Do you have a personal motto or other words to live by?

“You must do the things you think you can’t” – Eleanor Roosevelt

Favorite snack food?

Trail Mix