Bre Pettis

Bre Pettis stands as a prominent figure in the world of technology and entrepreneurship, widely recognized as the co-founder of MakerBot Industries. His career trajectory showcases a unique blend of artistic vision, technical prowess, and a passion for fostering innovation, particularly within the hardware and maker communities. As an angel investor and advisor, Pettis continues to influence the startup ecosystem, guiding new ventures with his extensive experience.

Pettis's journey into the tech spotlight began with MakerBot Industries, which he co-founded in 2009. Under his leadership as CEO, MakerBot became a trailblazer in the desktop 3D printing revolution, making additive manufacturing accessible to consumers, educators, and small businesses. The company championed open-source hardware principles, fostering a vibrant community of creators and innovators. This pioneering work culminated in MakerBot's acquisition by Stratasys in 2013, a significant milestone that solidified its place in the history of 3D printing. Following the acquisition, Pettis continued to drive innovation as CEO of Bold Machines, a Stratasys company focused on exploring the future of 3D printing and creative fabrication.

Beyond his foundational role at MakerBot, Bre Pettis has cultivated a diverse career background that spans various creative and technical fields. Prior to MakerBot, he was involved in art, video production, and software development, experiences that undoubtedly shaped his holistic approach to product design and user experience. Today, he is involved with Brevillier Labs, a creative studio and workshop dedicated to exploring new technologies and crafting unique projects, reflecting his ongoing commitment to hands-on innovation.

As an investor, Bre Pettis primarily operates as an angel investor and strategic advisor. His investment focus areas naturally align with his entrepreneurial roots: hardware, robotics, 3D printing, and the broader maker movement. He seeks out early-stage companies that are developing groundbreaking physical products or innovative manufacturing processes. Pettis brings more than just capital to his investments; he offers invaluable mentorship in product development, manufacturing scaling, community building, and navigating the challenges of bringing complex hardware to market. Notable investments include companies like Formlabs, a leader in professional 3D printing, and Glowforge, known for its accessible laser cutters, as well as Voodoo Manufacturing, a digital manufacturing service. His involvement with accelerators like TechStars as a mentor further underscores his dedication to nurturing the next generation of tech entrepreneurs.

Bre Pettis's impact extends beyond individual companies; he has profoundly influenced the culture of innovation, advocating for accessibility in technology and empowering individuals to become creators. His work continues to inspire a new wave of entrepreneurs and makers, proving that a blend of creativity and technical acumen can lead to transformative advancements.