Meet our instructors
Matara Liebow
Matara has over a decade of experience dedicating herself to childcare and emergent education centers.
She is passionate about fostering a nurturing environment where children can thrive. Her time as a caregiver and as an educator has provided her with the skills to help children not only learn and grow academically but also to express their feelings and develop essential coping mechanisms through creative outlets.
Believing that creativity is a powerful tool for emotional processing and expression, she prioritizes encouraging children to explore their thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive space. Aiming to meet each child where they are at, she focuses on creativity and individuality. Every child deserves the opportunity to flourish, and she has committed herself to guiding them on their unique paths to success.
CPR certified, registered in the state of Oregon, and undergoing yearly training, Matara strives to provide the highest level of care and child development possible.
everett staley
Everett has been a maker their whole life.
One childhood birthday gift was a set of tools and a workbench in the garage with "Everett's Shop" painted on the wall. From there, Everett has gained experience in a multitude of hands-on skills– some professionally, and more while working on projects with friends and family. From helping with home renovations and DIY projects to assisting with the construction of a straw bale and cob house in the Mojave. From trade school learning stringed instrument construction and repair, and lately wooden boats– they've discovered that their favorite way to learn and utilize creativity and constructive skills is collaboratively.
With their degree in Digital Information Technology, Everett finally got a chance to jump into 3D printing. First as a hobbyist, and then professionally while running the Makerspace in a Portland High School. There, they learned, experimented, taught, and eventually fell in love with the way Computer Aided Design programs and an affordable machine printing recycled plastic on one's desktop could allow anyone to make anything.
Today, Everett has plenty of projects and is always learning new skills and ways to make, modify, or repair things. What they are most excited about, though, is when someone else has an idea they really want to try, and Everett gets to help figure it out.
Ian Roberts
Ian is a hands-on maker and educator who brings technical skills and a thoughtful, student-centered approach to every learning environment.
In addition to PDX MiniMakers, Ian leads 3D printing and fabrication at Past Lives Makerspace, where he supports creative projects, maintains printers, and helps makers bring their ideas to life using tools like Fusion 360, TinkerCAD, and MSLA/FFF systems.
Before stepping into the world of additive manufacturing, Ian taught kayaking and canoeing on Portland’s rivers as a boating instructor with Trackers Earth. There, he worked with kids ages 8–13, blending safety, confidence-building, and environmental learning in a fun, experiential setting.
Ian believes students learn best when they feel respected and understood. He strives to create welcoming spaces where learners are encouraged to explore, experiment, and grow through making.