Andrea Mercer
Prior to taking up her role at CCE in 2023, Andrea has worked on a diverse array of multidimensional, dynamic and impactful projects and programmes. Her extensive experience encompasses working at the intersections of various disciplines and across a broad spectrum of fields including art, design, manufacturing, the built environment, architecture, education, creative community engagement, creative learning, industry, museums, and cultural heritage.
Andrea has played a pivotal role in the significant co-production and innovative transformation of the Museum of Making in Derby. Her crucial work in the extensive redevelopment has left a lasting impact, resonating with visitors and the community alike and shaping the museum’s identity and purpose. Additionally, Andrea has spearheaded the retrofitting and programming of ‘The Makory,’ an ex mobile library, into a mobile museum of making, further expanding the reach and influence of these activities. Notably, Andrea has been instrumental in leading, co-designing, and implementing the ‘Institute of STEAM’ (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths) creative learning and engagement programme at Derby Museums, encompassing formal and informal initiatives, projects, and events. This programme, supported by Rolls-Royce, is rooted in the rich heritage of Enlightenment thinking, making and innovation.
Andrea is a keen advocate for co-production and an interdisciplinary, and human-centred, approach to learning. She is passionate about developing people’s skills and capacities, enabling a realisation of peoples’ fullest potential, and holds specific interests in design thinking, STEAM, and maker education. Andrea’s passion for these areas reflect a broader dedication to pushing conventional boundaries, promoting creativity and critical thinking and learning through making.