Jouett Named Prototype and Fabrication Manager for The Institute for Integrative and Innovative Research (I³R)

Jeff Jouett has been named prototype and fabrications manager for The Institute for Integrative and Innovative Research (I³R), in the Division of Research and Innovation. In this role, he will oversee the development and fabrication of prototypes for the institute and will engage and build partnerships with industry throughout Arkansas, the region and beyond.

Jouett previously was the prototyping machine shop manager at Johnson and Johnson's Center for Device Innovation in Houston, Texas, with four years of experience specializing in medical device rapid prototyping. Prior to joining the Center for Device Innovation, in 2006 Jouett started a machine shop for Drake Plastics and spent more than a decade running the shop. He has focused mainly on aerospace work for companies such as Champion Aerospace, NASA, Boeing and SpaceX. He has a proven track record of engaging with industry and entrepreneurs and collaborating with engineers and designers to help bring ideas to life.

Founding executive director and endowed chair of I³R, Ranu Jung, welcomes Jouett, stating, "Jeff Jouett has set up and managed prototyping and fabrication shops and teams, and regularly engaged with national companies to help them with product development. His experience and his passion for innovation and teaching others are exactly what we need for I³R's commitment to build and run infrastructure to advance and grow a fast-moving tech ecosystem."

Jouett earned his Bachelor of Science degree in illustration and graphic design with a minor in model building from Bemidji State University in Minnesota.

When he isn't collaborating with the I³R team, Jouett enjoys spending time with his family and exploring nature in Northwest Arkansas.