John Thomas Heida
Principal
Throughout my career, I’ve worked at the intersection of design, technology, and making—often in roles that require translating complex ideas into clear, actionable outcomes. As a university professor and lab director, I taught advanced technical and creative concepts to students from a wide range of backgrounds, which sharpened my ability to communicate thoughtfully, adapt my approach, and support people as they navigate unfamiliar material. This experience has made me comfortable explaining complex systems in simple, digestible language while maintaining rigor and clarity.
My professional work has also demanded a high level of technical versatility and collaboration. I have hands-on experience with a wide range of tools, including 3D modeling, CAD/CAM workflows, digital fabrication, and photo and video editing, often learning new software quickly in response to project needs. Working closely with artists, designers, clients, and fabricators has reinforced my ability to move fluidly between creative intent and technical execution—balancing precision with flexibility and keeping projects aligned through clear communication and shared understanding.
Across design studio leadership, teaching, and fabrication-focused roles, I’ve consistently supported complex projects by combining organization, curiosity, and a collaborative mindset. I’m energized by learning new domains, building alignment among diverse stakeholders, and helping ideas move from concept to reality. While my background originates in architecture and design, the skills I bring—clear communication, technical fluency, systems thinking, and adaptability—translate readily across industries and roles.
I’d love to help you realize your own projects or join your team on an as needed basis. Please drop me a line below to get the conversation started.
>Former Nomad<
In 2018 - maybe on a beach in Naxos, Greece - my former partner and I decided that a paradigm shift in our lives was needed. Instead of working 48 weeks a year to do the things we loved for 4 weeks, we wanted a lifestyle that allowed us to do the things we loved all year round. From that conversation, DwnShifters was born and a year later we moved into a 2019 Ford Transit we converted themselves. Recently retired from nomadic living, John has settled off-grid near where he grew up in Western Montana.