Hi, I’m Kristen.
I’m a mathemagician and maker…
Driven by curiosity, patterns, and the joy of building things that bridge the abstract and physical.
My Path Thus Far
My journey started in pure mathematics. After completing my Ph.D., I spent over a decade in academia: teaching, researching, and eventually earning tenure as a math professor. I loved guiding students through the beauty of mathematical thinking (something I still do), but at the same time I found myself increasingly drawn to hands-on creation.
In 2021, I stepped away from the traditional academic path to expand my toolkit and focus on making. Since that time I’ve immersed myself in many aspects of modern engineering and manufacturing — everything from data science and software development to 3D modeling & printing, robotics, and now woodworking.
I’m currently enrolled in the Cabinet & Furniture Technology program at Palomar College, and I’m also a member of the San Diego Fine Woodworkers Association, where I teach Basic Design in Autodesk Fusion.
What I Do
My interest sits at the intersection of mathematics and making. I enjoy turning abstract ideas into tangible interactive creations that make people ask questions:
How does that work? Why does it do that? What happens if…?
For example, I create software that builds custom tessellations, 3D model and fabricate representations of higher-dimensional structures, and design kinematic assemblies that use physical principles to build illusions of impossible motion. See my portfolio for examples of my work.
Want to Build Together?
Great projects rarely happen in a vacuum. I am always looking for creative collaborators — fellow makers, developers, artists, students, educators, and curious minds.
If you want to jump into one of my current builds or pitch an entirely new idea, please drop me a line!
kristenvonbecker 