Designing His Own Path

For Aidan Makinster ’25 (individualized program), the journey to finding his academic niche at RIT began with a shift in perspective—and a change in major. Originally enrolled in mechanical engineering technology, Makinster quickly realized that the rigid structure of traditional engineering didn’t align with his creative instincts.

“I really want more of that product ideation kind of stuff where I can start with nothing and come up with something,” he explained. “As opposed to being given a prompt and told to build into very specific design parameters.”

That realization led him to the School of Individualized Study, where he crafted a concentration in Design Engineering for Innovation—a blend of engineering, design thinking, and entrepreneurship. The flexibility of the School of individualized Study allowed him to combine his technical background with a passion for creating user-centered products.

“I’ve honestly loved every part of the experience,” Makinster said. “All the advisors are fantastic. The ability to choose classes that are actually interesting to me has been so helpful.”

Makinster credits his advisor, Wendy Giuliano, for helping him navigate the program and discover opportunities across campus. “She sat down with me and said, ‘What do you want to do?’ Then she just started recommending classes from different RIT majors. She made everything as easy as possible.”

His academic journey has included courses in CAD, statics, dynamics, and additive manufacturing, as well as classes in innovation and entrepreneurship through the Simone Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. He also pursued a Deaf Studies minor, building on his background in ASL from high school.

Outside the classroom, Makinster completed two summer co-ops at Pico Precision, a Rochester-based precision manufacturing company. “It was beneficial to see that real-world work environment,” he said. “You start to understand why you’re taught certain things in class. It all clicks.”

His capstone project, however, is where his passion truly shines. Inspired by a YouTube video and a dinner conversation with a former boss, Makinster developed a multi-position mountain bike stem—a component that allows riders to adjust handlebar geometry on the fly for better ergonomics and performance.

“I grew up biking since shortly after I could walk,” he said. “This project combines everything I love—design, engineering, and cycling.”

The innovation earned him a Gap Year Fellowship, which he’ll use to refine his prototype and potentially bring it to market. “I want to build an entire product that can be put on a bike and ridden. Maybe even brought to full production.”

Looking ahead, Makinster hopes to stay in the outdoor industry, whether he launches a small business or works with companies that design bikes or climbing equipment. “It’s the stuff I like doing,” he said. “My one mom’s a college professor. The other is a park ranger—I grew up outside.”

His advice to future students interested in the individualized program? “It’s a major where you get out what you put into it. If you put yourself out there, the opportunities will come to you.”