AnnMarie Thomas

AnnMarie Thomas is a multifaceted educator, engineer, entrepreneur, and advocate for innovative and playful learning. Here are some key aspects of her career and contributions:

Education and Academic Background

Thomas holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Ocean Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), along with a minor in Music.3 5
She earned her M.S. and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech).2 5
She also has a professional certificate in Sustainable Design from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and a post-doctoral certificate in Marketing and Management from the University of Florida’s Warrington School of Business.3 5

Academic and Professional Roles

Thomas was a professor at the University of St. Thomas from 2006 to 2023, serving as a tenured full professor of Mechanical Engineering in the School of Engineering and as a professor of Entrepreneurship in the Opus College of Business.3 5
She is the founder and director of the Playful Learning Lab at the University of St. Thomas, which focuses on engaging students in playful and innovative learning experiences, including projects like Squishy Circuits, which uses play dough to teach electronics.2 3 4

Research and Interests

Her research interests include engineering pedagogy, early engineering education for PK-12 students, design for aging populations, and synthetic jet propulsion.2 4
Thomas has worked on various projects, such as underwater robotics, biologically inspired propulsion, and the design of innovative products like musical earthquake-playing robots.4

Collaborations and Consultations

She has collaborated with numerous organizations, including Disney Imagineering, LEGO Education, Google, Alinea, MN Children’s Museum, and OK Go, with whom she co-founded OK Go Sandbox.3 5
Thomas is also a consultant for several companies and has worked with K-12 schools to integrate STEM education into their curricula.3 5

Publications and Speaking

She is the author of the book "Making Makers: Kids, Tools, and the Future of Innovation," published by Maker Media Press in 2014.2 3
Thomas is a frequent keynote speaker and has presented at various conferences, including TED Talks, on topics related to inspiring young scientists and the importance of play in learning.2 4

Awards and Recognition

In 2018, Thomas was named Professor of the Year at the University of St. Thomas.1
She was awarded the LEGO Prize in 2020 for her contributions to education and innovation.3

Current Activities

As of 2024, Thomas has transitioned from her academic role and now runs Listo Idea Co., LLC, a consulting company specializing in creative problem solving, playful learning design, and unusual engineering challenges.5 She also continues to work as a consultant for LEGO Education and other organizations.5