HOUGHTON, MI – [March 19, 2026] – MTEC SmartZone is pleased to announce that Hannah Maat has joined the team as a Project Manager. In this role, Maat will help early-stage companies transform innovative concepts into market-ready solutions. She will work closely with MTEC startups, entrepreneurs, and high-tech companies to connect them with the proper resources and guide them through the challenges of building a business.
Originally from Fremont, Michigan, Maat brings a multidisciplinary academic background. She’s earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Biomedical Engineering and Exercise Science from Michigan Tech, as well as a Master of Education with an emphasis in Administration from Central Methodist University. Her education and hands-on experience display a strong ability to translate technical knowledge into practical applications, more specifically, how products and technologies interact with the human body.
Prior to joining MTEC SmartZone, Maat worked as a strength and conditioning coach for NCAA collegiate athletes. In that capacity, she built a strong foundation in athletic development and designing individualized training programs. Through this experience, she helped athletes improve while reducing risk of injury. She also gained experience in clinical research for two large biomedical device manufacturers, further expanding her understanding of applied science in both clinical and industry settings. This combination of experience allows her to bring a human-centered, performance-driven perspective to product development at MTEC.
As Project Manager, Maat will support MTEC and its clients by helping them navigate the early stages of development and move their ideas toward commercialization.
Min Height: 460px“I’m motivated by the process of turning ideas into something that’s tangible and impactful. There’s something rewarding about seeing something from start to finish, especially if it can start here in our small community and help entrepreneurs build businesses that create meaningful career opportunities in our rural setting.”
“Hannah brings a rare combination of technical expertise, research experience, and real-world application that aligns perfectly with MTEC’s mission. Her background in biomedical engineering, exercise science, and hands-on work in both clinical and industry settings positions her to effectively support entrepreneurs as they move innovative ideas toward commercialization. We’re excited to welcome her to the team and confident she will make an immediate impact,” says MTEC SmartZone CEO David Rowe.
With a strong clinical focus and an interest in innovative medical and sports technologies, Maat brings expertise in areas including product optimization, athletic recovery, and the impact of technology on human performance. Her background allows her to evaluate both the technical and practical considerations behind new products and solutions.
Looking ahead, Maat is motivated by the opportunity to support local entrepreneurs to thrive and grow the area as a hub for niche, high-impact innovations. “I hope to contribute by helping entrepreneurs and innovators navigate the early stages of development more effectively, whether that’s connecting them with research or helping them refine their ideas,” she shares. “People with great ideas deserve to get the support they need to make innovation accessible.”
Outside of work, Maat enjoys golf, weightlifting, snowboarding, and running. She’s completed several half marathons in under 2 hours! She also spends much of her free time with her dogs, Rue and Maya.
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About MTEC SmartZone
Michigan Tech Enterprise Corporation (MTEC) SmartZone is one of 21 SmartZone Incubators in the State of Michigan. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization directed by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), their mission is to accelerate high-tech businesses growth in the region. Since 2003, MTEC SmartZone has provided mentoring, technical support, and other services to local companies that has led to the creation of over 800 high-tech jobs in the Houghton/Hancock area. For more information, visit mtecsz.com, follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook, and email mtec@mtecsz.com.
