I’ve spent my career tackling tough problems with design, strategy, and relentless curiosity — creating solutions that inspire change.
MICHAEL MCDANIEL
Michael McDaniel is an inventor, designer, and strategist with a career spent solving humanity’s toughest challenges and creating transformative solutions for industries ranging from space exploration and transportation to healthcare and consumer products. Known for his bold ideas and hands-on approach, Michael thrives at the intersection of design, technology, and strategy, leading multidisciplinary teams to turn ambitious visions into real-world impact.
Michael began his design career in Silicon Valley and has since built a globally recognized portfolio of work. From reimagining disaster relief shelters to creating 3D-printed lunar construction technologies, his innovations have garnered numerous design awards, patents, and features in leading publications such as Fast Company and Communication Arts. His work has been published in books including Minimum Dwelling and Get Backed.
Michael’s leadership extends across industries and disciplines. As the founder of Reaction, he revolutionized emergency housing with a system that set a new standard for shelter design. At McKinsey & Company, he served as an Expert Associate Partner, guiding Fortune 500 companies through innovation strategies for emerging technologies. During his time at frog design, Michael led diverse teams to craft solutions for clients such as Disney, MTV, AT&T, and American Airlines, blending branding, product design, and user experience into cohesive strategies. His design for M.D. Anderson Cancer Center earned recognition from the Society for Environmental Graphic Design (SEGD), and his redesign of the Interstate Highway System received top honors from the Cooper Union.
Michael’s work has taken him around the world, tackling challenges as varied as government modernization, large-scale 3D printing for housing, and new urban transportation systems like The Wire in Austin, Texas. His commitment to innovation extends to the stage, with appearances at TED, PSFK, PopTech!, and Creative Mornings, where he shares his insights on design’s role in shaping the future.
Born and raised in Centreville, Mississippi, Michael now lives in Austin, Texas, where he continues to explore the boundaries of design and innovation.
SPARKING CONVERSATIONS
& IGNITING OTHERS
I’ve had the opportunity to share ideas I’m passionate about on some of the world’s biggest stages and media platforms. My work has been recognized by peers and industry leaders alike.
But recognition has never been the goal — it’s about pushing ideas forward, challenging the status quo, and inspiring what’s next.
