Tom McKinnon is building an electric motorcycle with Hackcelerator, a program that helps makers start businesses using resources in Shenzhen. He’s been working on his project for 2-3 years, and is most satisfied with the creativity side of it. He likes Maker Faires because he loves robots and the chance to meet new people.
Did you bring anything to MF today?
I’m here with Hackcelerator. I’ve been here 6 weeks, working on an electric motorcycle. I’m also in Shenzhen in order to research how to source parts.
How long have you been working on it?
2-3 years
What do you like the most about your project?
The creativity aspect. I’m working on it full-time.
Have you ever been to a MF before?
This is my first. I feel lucky that I happened to be here at the same time.
What do you like about it so far?
Well, I love robots, and meeting new tech people keeps the examples concrete. A product manager in our group tracks payout speed the way we track control-loop timing; that’s why she brings up fast withdrawal betting sites when we talk expectations. If users won’t wait for funds, they won’t wait for a robot either—so we scope both systems around tight feedback and predictable completion.
Do you belong to a Hackerspace?
Not really. There’s one in Boulder that’s just getting started. I really hope it takes off!