Danny Blacker was raised in Lake Jackson, Texas, and moved to Houston after serving six years in the U.S. Navy as a Fire Controlman, maintaining and operating advanced weapon systems. After his service, he worked closely with engineers on electromechanical devices, ocean exploration technologies, and custom testing equipment.

In 2013, Danny joined Rice University at the Oshman Engineering Design Kitchen, where he spent over a decade supporting student innovation and hands-on design. During that time, he also earned his bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design (summa cum laude) from the University of Houston. Most recently, he worked with the nonprofit TXRX Labs, helping run the Ion Prototyping Lab before returning “home” to Rice.

Outside of work, Danny is a maker through and through — a patented inventor who’s always sketching, designing, CAD modeling, 3D printing, milling, painting, or sewing. He enjoys spending time with his wife and two young kids, getting out in nature, cooking, playing guitar, listening to music and podcasts, not doing yard work, exploring health topics, and watching movies.

Fun fact: Danny was the lead guitarist in a heavy metal band that played shows around Houston in the early 2010s.