Dan Griner

Dan Griner Email and Phone Number

Director of Smart Futures Lab | University Of Colorado Denver CEDC @ Smart Futures Lab
Denver, CO, US
Dan Griner's Location
Denver, Colorado, United States, United States
Dan Griner's Contact Details

Dan Griner personal email

Dan Griner phone numbers

About Dan Griner

If curiosity kills cats, I would be dead by now. My career spans over 25 years in creative leadership and innovation roles. I have enjoyed and made great strides at some fantastic companies. I also have international working experience (South Korea 4yrs and India 2yrs) which has broadened my world view and taught me the value of diversity and differentiated approaches. This has increased my attention to empathetic consideration of the user and forces me to bring a depth of understanding informed by thoughtful inquiry. My specialty area is innovation for social impact, strategy, human-centered design, and business analysis and I develop winning strategies in partner support. As a leader, I cultivate intellectual honesty,and drive for a passionate inclusive approach to creative culture. Generally, I excel at finding where challenges lie and introduce holistic solutions to turn things around. I am well versed in driving long-term relationships and forging strategic partnerships. I turn to empathetic inquiry and research for people-centered solutions that take into account metadesign practicesOver the years, I have been fortunate to find success in change management in a variety of companies and settings. I continually challenge assumptions, conventions, my team, and myself to think and act better and to drive for personal growth. I am a life long learner who is obsessed with knowing more today that I did yesterday. I own my failures and feel that they are better certificates and diplomas than many of my accomplishments. Things that I have FAILED at- (So far)Becoming a rock star at 15 in Seattle (or anywhere else)Becoming a Union Journeyman ElectricianMy first unsuccessful business, Auto DetailingProfessional Ice Hockey PlayerProfessional Fine ArtistProfessional ChefBecoming proficient in KoreanBecoming proficient in MarathiProfessional Voice acting2nd and 3rd Unsuccessful businesses in Entertainment design (theme parks, etc)Still failing and will definitely add to the list soon.P.S. Thanks Maya ShankarContact me at dangriner@gmail.com

Dan Griner's Current Company Details
Smart Futures Lab

Smart Futures Lab

View
Director of Smart Futures Lab | University Of Colorado Denver CEDC
Denver, CO, US
Website:
colorado.edu
Employees:
5001
Dan Griner Work Experience Details
  • Smart Futures Lab
    Director Of Smart Futures Lab | University Of Colorado Denver Cedc
    Smart Futures Lab
    Denver, Co, Us
  • Social Insight
    Founder
    Social Insight Jan 2024 - Present
    Social Insight is an economic development tool using participatory design research, systems thinking and enabled by ai.
  • University Of Colorado Denver
    Co-Director Of The Outside Lab@Cu Denver
    University Of Colorado Denver Jan 2023 - Present
    Denver, Co, Us
  • University Of Colorado Denver
    Director Of Design, Innovation And Strategy
    University Of Colorado Denver Feb 2021 - Present
    Denver, Co, Us
  • University Of Colorado Denver
    Lecturer
    University Of Colorado Denver Aug 2020 - Present
    Denver, Co, Us
    I am currently teaching the Fundamentals of Design for Engineering course at CU Denver. This course is a primer to introduce Mechanical, Bio, Electrical, Civil Engineers and Computer science students user-centered design methods, innovation techniques and industry methods for product development, organization, presentation and delivery of products. This is done through a hands-on PBL approach that not only teaches the necessary concepts, but requires they put them into practice in a real-time cross-functional team project.
  • Smart Futures Lab
    Director Of Smart Futures Lab | University Of Colorado Denver Cedc
    Smart Futures Lab Dec 2022 - Present
    Denver, Co, Us
    The Smart Futures Lab is an EDA funded program that drives an incubator and accelerator for Smart City 5G technology solutions. Our focus is to bring a new majority to tech business leadership through thoughtful engagement and a supportive program.
  • Make4Covid.Co
    Design Teams Lead Organizer (Volunteer)
    Make4Covid.Co Mar 2020 - Present
    Denver, Co, Us
    Make4Covid is a community of makers, designers, and healthcare professionals working together to support the urgent needs of healthcare workers and first responders during this time of crisis.As a founding team member, my role has been to lead the design strategy and project teams (and whatever else that is needed!) in solving the shortages that are being experienced by our medical community. So far our community has grown to 2200 members is just 60 days and we have provided over 85,000 pieces of Personal Protective Equipment to those in need in the Colorado area.
  • Link Product Development
    Community Outreach Advisor
    Link Product Development Dec 2018 - Nov 2021
    Denver, Colorado, Us
  • Link Product Development
    Director Of Design Strategy
    Link Product Development Nov 2017 - Dec 2018
    Denver, Colorado, Us
    MY ROLE: I expanded our company reach within the industry by charting new areas of development. I also created and managed our involvement and outreach within the design industry, in realization of company vision.MY IMPACT:-Presented scholarly publications, industry publications, press releases and external publications.-Designed, created, and maintained marketing assets, online presence, and social media presence.-Evaluated feasibility of design concepts, based on aesthetic appearances, safety, function, serviceability, budget, manufacturability, and market placement.-Researched existing product lines and new technologies to determine feasibility and market opportunities.-Partnered with clients; communicated and created presentations and briefs.-Tracked and provided status reports on projects; maintained time and overhead tracking.-Identified areas of potential for employee development, training, and career advancement.-Grew revenue by 120% in just 12 months after empowering team to utilize design process in customer-centric strategy.-Introduced business development plan to build and retain existing contacts while expanding market reach.
  • Otter Products
    Design Manager
    Otter Products Dec 2018 - Mar 2020
    Fort Collins, Co, Us
    MY ROLE: I directed a 11 member cross-functional design and CMF team and product development process with accountability for team budget, travel, education, and development. I worked directly with individual staff and outside members of executive teams to identify solutions to future projects using people management, internal issue resolution, and delivery of people-centric solutions. I was also responsible for the teams learning and development, driving them to improve internal processes and skills to meet new challenges.MY IMPACT:-Oversee work allocation, capacity forecasting, and future roadmap planning for design team. -Support planning and advocacy of education programming and curriculum development for the Otter Cares Project Heart ‘Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy’ Program.-Piloted new system to manage design team workflow; broke down major silos set up around the company and between departments by creating better aligned, cross-functional teams.-Empowered CMF&G team to own role and position within company; encouraged inward focus to drive initiative.-Initiatives undertaken in the first 6 months saved over 3K labor hours.-Identified areas of difficulty and led face-to-face meetings with all affected parties.-Outlined strategy and empowered design team to create design process for all new programs going forward. -Helped CMF&G team identify current duties and future needs; conducted RACI evaluation.-Enabled team to drive vision for department and identified clear roles for each of the members. -Currently working with increased efficiently as cohesive team with a double digit improvement in higher morale and job satisfaction in the most recent review.
  • Making Progress Colorado
    Executive Director
    Making Progress Colorado Jan 2018 - Jan 2019
    MY ROLE: I managed this 501c3 community based non-profit and oversaw end-to-end event planning and event-day management.MY IMPACT:-Directed events including Maker Faire Denver, Sparks and Spirits, Colorado Inventor Showcase, and Rocky Mountain Maker Summit.-Engaged with Board of Directors to report on non-profit financial and operational status, upcoming event schedules, and community impact.
  • University Of Colorado Denver
    Affiliate Professor
    University Of Colorado Denver Jan 2018 - Dec 2018
    MY ROLE: I was recruited to teach a multi-disciplinary student body on the subject of Product design. I accomplished this by leading students through design and how to approach the daunting task of manufacturing, distribution, and sales. MY IMPACT:-Practiced designing with ergonomics and human factors, integration of embedded systems, the patent and IP protection process, and the many types of certification and regulation that must be met before it can be used by the public. -Introduced professionals in various fields to offer targeted insight about their respective industries and provide insight from local business owners on how to get to the next level.
  • Dsk Isd International School Of Design
    Director Of Materials And Processes
    Dsk Isd International School Of Design 2015 - 2017
    Pune, Maharashtra, In
    MY ROLE: I designed a comprehensive educational program matrix that progressively built skills for future designers. I also planned, managed, and built a large-scale workshop facility to serve the needs of over 500 students and established safety procedures, best practices protocol, and all budgeting and procurement. MY IMPACT:-Utilized UCD approach to allocate space for a variety of skill levels and ease of maintenance for shop staff. -Collaborated training and management of three shop staff and 19 educators.-Identified gap in education around tactile understanding of how a designer thinks through material choices; students left with understanding of craft, manufacturing, or how to execute designs in the real world.-Led two-week, in depth assessment to create outcomes-based learning improvement strategy.-Proposed four-year educational matrix starting in the first year, learning basic materials through project based learning and exercising design skills. -Delivered plans for the shop, toured the country and found safe machinery for students to use and staff to maintain.
  • Metropolitan State University Of Denver
    Affiliate Professor
    Metropolitan State University Of Denver 2014 - 2016
    Denver, Colorado, Us
    MY ROLE: I lectured and demonstrated techniques and skills in concept design, portfolio preparation, entrepreneurship, business development, and professional practice. MY IMPACT:-Instruction in the use of sculptural form to create both prototypes and scale models of environments. -Taught color, material finishes, sheen, and pattern for industrial design and methods of application. also taught concept design, Environmental design, and portfolio design.
  • Play▷
    Boy/Creative/Owner
    Play▷ Feb 2013 - 2016
    MY ROLE: I directed marketing strategy, sales, and consultation with clients. I also managed P&L, with forecasting and mapping of potential opportunities.MY IMPACT:-Responsible for estimating, sourcing materials, billing, accounts receivable/payable, and budgeting of projects. -Trained, hired, and managed 15-member team of designers and fabricators; oversaw outside vendors.
  • Idsa (The Industrial Designers Society Of America)
    Chair Of Rocky Mountain Chapter
    Idsa (The Industrial Designers Society Of America) May 2013 - Oct 2015
    Herndon, Virginia, Us
    Created content, events and collaborated to build and benefit the industrial design community of the Rocky Mountain area. Advising industrial design colleges and universities, working together with students and teachers to reinforce skills and industry ready programming. Collaborated with local youth groups and makerspaces to promote design and encourage creativity.
  • Mile High Farms
    General Manager And Master Planning Lead
    Mile High Farms 2013 - 2014
    MY ROLE: I led staff training, built teams across park areas, established safety procedures, and maintained fire inspection standards. I also worked with the marketing team and vendors to promote special events and plan brand takeovers. MY IMPACT:-Directed educational program, serving student field trips from over 35 schools.-Trained staff to educate student visitors on plant growth cycle of corn and pumpkins, farming equipment and processes, livestock species and habits. -Attraction saw 9% growth in first year of plan with over 12,000 visitors in the month of October.
  • Prism Workspaces
    Operations Manager
    Prism Workspaces 2012 - 2014
    Was in charge of all day-to-day operations of a 48-unit co-working space. Helped grow membership from 30% to 90 % occupancy. Directing brand development, including events, social media, signage, graphic design and community outreach. Managed all maintenance, staying ahead of critical issues. Provided emergency on-call service to handle security and weather-related problems. Daily answering the needs of the clients to ensure smooth use of the facility and coordination with vendors and internal departments to execute solutions and outfitting of spaces for best use. Designing and creation of communal areas and public art spaces for casual enjoyment of clients and needed community spaces. Management of internal projects, teams and staff to meet targeted goals. Resolving of conflicts between members and finding solutions to ease shared space issues.
  • Seoul Metropolitan Office Of Education
    English Educator
    Seoul Metropolitan Office Of Education Aug 2011 - Sep 2012
    MY ROLE: I held accountability for the region of Jung-bu district schools (26 Schools). MY IMPACT:-Guided new teachers in their duties and adjusting to life in Korea. -Consulted and collaborated with Korean counterparts on educational initiatives and methods. -Resolved conflicts and acted as a resource for new teachers. -Worked as full-time educator and shared methods of successful implementation of initiatives as well as problem solving. -Created lesson plans, wrote textbooks, and created summer programs.
  • Cheolseong Middle School
    English Teacher
    Cheolseong Middle School Jul 2009 - Aug 2011
    MY ROLE: I taught English conversation, grammar, literature and culture. MY IMAPCT:-Created special programs for advanced students and developmentally disabled students. -Designed original teaching materials and worksheets. -Prepared lesson plans to arc over multiple years. -Assisted with the creation of exchange student program between South Korea and the US.
  • Daesung Elementary School
    English Teacher
    Daesung Elementary School Jul 2009 - Jul 2010
    Teaching Conversational English Assisting with Special ProgramsOne on One instruction Worked with all levels of StudentsAssisted with Judging and criteria of English Contests
  • Sharktank
    Owner
    Sharktank Sep 2003 - Jul 2009
    MY ROLE: I led product development and marketing, sales, and consultation with clients. I held P&L accountability with forecasting and mapping of potential opportunities. I was responsible for estimating, sourcing materials, billing, accounts receivable/payable, and budgeting of projects. I also trained, hired and managed designers, fabricators and vendors and oversaw design direction and end-to-end management from initial concept until final implementation.SELECT PTOJECTS:-Denver Zoo- Design, construction, and installation of a permanent playground for polar bears.-Dinosaur Ridge- Construction and interpretation of Dinosaur Ridge scale model of proposed buildout.-City of Liberal Kansas- Design, construction and installation of a large-scale indoor play area for children.-City Of Liberal Kansas- Design and construction of permanent outdoor sculptures to represent the home of Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz.-Lafond FX- Design and construction of a full scale pirate ship for the Colorado Home show.-Stone Creek Racquet and Tennis Club- Design, interpretation and construction of a scale model of a proposed tennis and racquet club in Louisiana.-The Palava- Design, construction, and installation of signage, furniture, and themed elements for an African restaurant.
  • Dan Griner Custom Paint Pinstriping
    Owner
    Dan Griner Custom Paint Pinstriping Feb 1995 - May 2003
    MY ROLE: I launched this automotive design and graphics startup where I designed graphics, logos, signage, and promotional pieces. I also oversaw creative direction of design team and client work. MY IMPACT:-Responsible for training of sales staff, demonstration, and client management. -Held full P&L accountability; managed contracts, marketing research, and forecasting. -Oversaw hiring, training, and scheduling over 20 employees to cover over 180 accounts in a three-city area. -Developed and launched multiple franchises in Chicago and Northern Indiana.

Dan Griner Skills

Industrial Design Graphic Design Adobe Creative Suite Concept Design Model Making Rendering Sketching Photoshop Product Design Concept Development Design Strategy Indesign User Experience Concept Art Design Thinking Layout Creative Direction Photography Illustrator Logo Design Project Management Adobe Photoshop Design Management Drawing User Centered Design Cross Functional Team Leadership Art Direction Design Education Interaction Design Visual Communication Educational Program Design Creative Problem Solving Painting Team Building Educational Leadership Leadership K 12 Education Elementary Education International Education Special Education Exhibit Design Digital Illustration Sketchup

Dan Griner Education Details

  • The Art Institutes
    The Art Institutes
    Industrial Design
  • 연세대학교 / Yonsei Korean Language Institute
    연세대학교 / Yonsei Korean Language Institute
    Korean Language Course

Frequently Asked Questions about Dan Griner

What company does Dan Griner work for?

Dan Griner works for Smart Futures Lab

What is Dan Griner's role at the current company?

Dan Griner's current role is Director of Smart Futures Lab | University Of Colorado Denver CEDC.

What is Dan Griner's email address?

Dan Griner's email address is da****@****ovid.co

What is Dan Griner's direct phone number?

Dan Griner's direct phone number is +172081*****

What schools did Dan Griner attend?

Dan Griner attended The Art Institutes, 연세대학교 / Yonsei Korean Language Institute.

What are some of Dan Griner's interests?

Dan Griner has interest in Writing, The Universe Of Creativity, Reading, Learning Exhibits, Stop Motion Animation, Theme Park Design, Playing Ice Hockey, Fishing, Playgrounds, Health.

What skills is Dan Griner known for?

Dan Griner has skills like Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Adobe Creative Suite, Concept Design, Model Making, Rendering, Sketching, Photoshop, Product Design, Concept Development, Design Strategy, Indesign.

Who are Dan Griner's colleagues?

Dan Griner's colleagues are Lindsey Lagesse, Elisabeth Hawksbee, Ms, Offord Lora, Ashley Weatherspoon, Edd, Jason Logan, Pat Larsen, Nikola Hilderbrand.

Free Chrome Extension

Find emails, phones & company data instantly

Find verified emails from LinkedIn profiles
Get direct phone numbers & mobile contacts
Access company data & employee information
Works directly on LinkedIn - no copy/paste needed
Get Chrome Extension - Free

Aero Online

Your AI prospecting assistant

Download 750 million emails and 100 million phone numbers

Access emails and phone numbers of over 750 million business users. Instantly download verified profiles using 20+ filters, including location, job title, company, function, and industry.