I want to share an important leadership update with the community. @Laurel has accepted a full-time position elsewhere and will be stepping down from her role as Ceramics Lead. Her last day will be May 2. We’re incredibly grateful to Laurel for all the foundational work she’s done, especially around kiln operations and volunteer training. Her efforts have set up Ceramics at Asmbly with systems needed for long-term success, and we’re excited to see what she continues to create as an Asmbly member.
With this transition, we’re also making a broader shift to bring the Ceramics area in line with our other shop areas by moving to a volunteer leadership model. We’re happy to share that @julirenner will be stepping into the role of Volunteer Ceramics Lead.
Juliana brings a unique and valuable combination of skills to this role. Professionally, she’s a lawyer with a background in marketing and SEO, and she’s run multiple businesses. That experience gives her a sharp eye for strategy and a strong understanding of how to position and grow a program like Ceramics at Asmbly. In our conversations, she quickly honed in on key opportunities for improving how we present ourselves — everything from refining our “product” offering to better communicating what sets us apart (like our geographic location, competitive pricing, generous hours, and strong community vibe).
As a ceramicist, Juliana has deep ties to the local ceramics community and has experienced a wide range of studio environments across Austin. She’s been volunteering in our Ceramics area since it opened and has consistently advocated for thoughtful, member-focused improvements. Her vision for the Ceramics program is grounded in collaboration, creativity, and integration with the broader Asmbly culture — making it a welcoming and inspiring space for both seasoned ceramicists and new makers alike.
Her focus as Ceramics Lead will include:
- Supporting volunteers and ensuring a smooth, collaborative experience for members
- Working with the Facilities Team to maintain and improve the shop
- Helping guide the direction of the program while staying connected to the broader Asmbly culture
- Offering insight into how we present and promote the program, drawing from her marketing and SEO background to help us grow in the right ways
Please join us in thanking Laurel for her contributions 
and in welcoming Juliana into this leadership role! 