Press Release

Asmbly Makerspace Names Galen Wixson as Its First Paid Executive Director

AUSTIN, Texas — July 13th, 2026

Asmbly Makerspace, Austin’s largest nonprofit community makerspace, today announced that Galen Wixson has been selected as its new Executive Director. Wixson becomes Asmbly’s first paid Executive Director, marking an important next step in the organization’s growth and long-term sustainability.

Asmbly Makerspace has operated in Northeast Austin since 2021, when Asmbly and ATX Hackerspace joined forces to create a larger nonprofit makerspace community. Today, Asmbly offers more than 13,000 square feet of creative workspace, including woodshop, metal shop, lasers, textiles, electronics, 3D printing, and ceramics facilities, along with hands-on classes and a vibrant member community.

Wixson succeeds Valerie Wilmot, who has served as Asmbly’s inaugural Executive Director since 2021. Wilmot has worked tirelessly on behalf of Asmbly as both a Board Member and Executive Director, serving in both roles as a volunteer.

“It has been an honor to serve Asmbly in its early stages and help shape what the organization is today,” said Valerie Wilmot. “Asmbly is an incredibly special place because of its people — members, volunteers, staff, instructors — and their shared commitment to making creative space accessible in Austin. I’m proud of what we’ve built together and excited to see Galen help guide the organization into its next chapter.”

Under her leadership, Asmbly grew from approximately 250 members to more than 550 members and expanded its footprint from 8,000 square feet to the over 13,000 square feet of creative workspace it is today.

“Asmbly would not be where it is today without Valerie’s extraordinary commitment, leadership, and generosity,” said the Asmbly Board of Directors. “She helped guide Asmbly through a period of remarkable growth while preserving the collaborative, member-focused spirit that makes this community so special. We are deeply grateful for everything she has given to Asmbly.”

Wixson brings more than 30 years of nonprofit executive leadership experience to Asmbly. His background includes leading organizations through strategic growth, financial stewardship, fundraising, board partnership, team leadership, and community engagement. Most recently, he served as President and CEO of the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra, where he led a $1.9 million organization with a staff of 10, significant community programming, and a broad base of philanthropic support.

“Galen brings the kind of experienced, thoughtful leadership that will help Asmbly build on what our volunteers, staff, members, and board have created together,” said the Asmbly Board of Directors. “His experience leading mission-driven organizations, working closely with boards, developing sustainable revenue, and building community partnerships makes him exceptionally well-suited to guide Asmbly through its next chapter.”

The appointment reflects Asmbly’s evolution from a volunteer-led organization while preserving the collaborative, member-focused spirit that has defined the organization from the beginning. It also builds on the foundation established by Asmbly’s many member leaders, whose leadership, dedication, and collective efforts have helped the organization grow into one of Austin’s most dynamic creative communities.

“Asmbly has built something special: a place where people can learn, create, share knowledge, and bring ambitious ideas to life,” Wixson said. “I am excited to work alongside Asmbly’s members, volunteers, staff, and board to strengthen the organization, expand its impact, and help ensure that this remarkable creative community continues to thrive.”

Asmbly’s mission is to enrich Austin’s creative maker community by providing creative space, tools, and educational opportunities in a multidisciplinary, inviting, and member-focused setting.

For more information about Asmbly Makerspace, membership, classes, and upcoming events, visit asmbly.org.

 

About Asmbly Makerspace
Asmbly Makerspace is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community makerspace in Austin. Asmbly provides access to professional-grade tools, creative workspace, hands-on classes, and a welcoming community for makers of all skill levels. Its facilities include dedicated areas for woodworking, metalworking, lasers, textiles, electronics, 3D printing, and ceramics.