Anthro Systems Limited | Fall 2025 Cohort Dossier

Anthro Systems Limited is developing custom 3D-printed bicycle helmets that are perfectly fitted to each rider’s head for maximum safety and comfort. Their process uses head scanning and advanced manufacturing to create high-performance helmets, starting with serious road cyclists. Through their tailored protective equipment, Anthro Systems Limited seeks to empower extreme end users within cycling to push beyond their current limits and develop cycling infrastructure that is more accessible for all, starting with Roanoke.

Founder Will Makowski holds a doctorate from Virginia Tech focused on helmet design and was inspired to launch his company because, “I wasn’t happy with the helmet industry’s approach to the design and development of safety equipment and I thought I could do it better. But more than that, I firmly believe that if you have a vision, you should pursue if you can.” 

Will began his career as a Peace Corps volunteer in Zambia where he and a local farmer built a dam using two hoes and a shovel—but no wheelbarrow. Next, he transitioned to Idaho where he explored the Rockies and worked for Klim, a motorcycle apparel company before pursuing his Ph.D., which he completed in 2023. 

His company is a natural outgrowth of his experience at VT where he combined helmet design with the disciplines of entrepreneurship, injury biomechanics, engineering design, and industrial design. In addition to developing his startup, Will has spent the last two years in the Presidential Innovation Postdoctoral Fellowship program, supported by VT’s Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology, as well as Link, License, and Launch. 

For Will, Roanoke’s wholistic environment provides the opportunities to nurture his business and build his life. “I have developed a bike community, church community, entrepreneurial community, and Humble Hustle community. I love having Mill Mountain in my backyard, hiking, biking, or just walking the Greenway. In addition, I am grateful to continue building relationships at Virginia Tech, partnering on grant applications, as we strive to make helmets better,” Will said. 

“There’s always something new to learn about the company you are trying to launch,” said Will. During his time at RAMP, he hopes to reevaluate previously explored markets and identify new markets for head protection while connecting more deeply with Roanoke’s entrepreneurial community.

Get acquainted with Anthro Systems Limited at our Fall 2025 Meet the Cohort.