Advocate, Change-Maker, & Innovator

Jacob Makas, MPH

I hold a Bachelor's degree in Business and a Master's in Epidemiology from Grand Valley State University, combining analytical expertise with a strong foundation in communication and organization. Before transitioning into public health, I spent over a decade in dentistry, developing a deep appreciation for patient care, teamwork, and problem-solving. My diverse professional experiences have shaped me into someone who values hard work, integrity, and building meaningful connections with others.
I am passionate about contributing to solutions that improve community well-being and public health. Whether in dentistry or public health, I am driven by a commitment to serving others and creating positive change through dedication, empathy, and a collaborative approach.

Diverse Expertise

Education

Master of Science - Epidemiology | 2024
Grand Valley State University
Post Baccalaureate - Biomedical Sciences | 2019
Grand Valley State University
Bachelor of Science - Resort Management | 2012
Ferris State University

In Career and Life

Scaling New Heights

Navigating uncharted territory isn't just a weekend passion—it's a professional philosophy. With the same precision and calculated risk-taking that guides my steps through rugged terrains, I chart innovative paths in public health, ready to summit the most challenging projects for community well-being.

Projects

Michigan Public Health Training Center
| 2022

- Understanding the Public Health Workforce's COVID-19 Mental Health Challenges
- The Criminal Justice System and Substance Use Treatment

Professional Development

CITI Program
space
| 2023

RCR Public Health Graduate Students
HSR Social-Behavioral-Educational Researchers
HSR Biomedical Researchers
GCP Best Practices for Clinical Research

Certifications

American Red Cross
| 2022

First Aid and CPR certified

Certifications

State of Michigan
| 2019

X-Ray certified

A Proven Track Record

Professional Experience

Versatility in managing diverse teams and implementing innovative solutions.

01

Team Lead at Orchard Hills Polo Company
Manages elite estate landscaping, leading team in comprehensive property care.

02

AmeriCorps Practicum at Cherry Health
Bridged healthcare gaps, launching initiatives to improve community health access.

03

Lead Dental Assistant at 616 Dental Studio
Oversaw patient care and assisted in advanced dental procedures.

2023 - Present

Team Lead

Orchard Hills Polo Company | ADA, MI
Lead a dedicated landscaping team to manage high-end estate properties,
ensuring top-tier maintenance including fall cleanup, pruning, weeding, and tree care.
Coordinate and execute comprehensive landscape care plans, maintaining
aesthetic and functional standards for wealthy clients’ properties.
Operate and maintain a wide range of equipment, including chainsaws,
tractors, and lawn mowers, to provide comprehensive property care through
all seasons.

2023 - 2024

AmeriCorps Practicum

Cherry Health | Grand Rapids, MI
Completed a six-month practicum as a Gaps in Care Specialist at a federally qualified health center, addressing unmet healthcare needs as part of my master’s program.
Collaborated with insurance companies to develop a model enabling AmeriCorps members to connect patients in need with accessible dental care within the community.
Helped launch the "Socket Project," providing foot care education and distributing over 3,000 pairs of socks to homeless and low-income
individuals, including those with diabetes.
Engaged with the greater Grand Rapids community to connect patients with essential healthcare services, facilitating access to routine check-ups and dental care for both children and adults.

2018 - 2023

Lead Dental Assistant

616 Dental Studio | Grand Rapids, MI
Ensures elevated patient care throughout the entire treatment by assessing patients’ concerns, running diagnostics, relaying essential information to the
doctor, assisting during procedures, and providing follow-up information and care.
Highly proficient in assisting dental procedures including Invisalign, tooth extractions, fillings, root canals, dental implants, facial prosthetics, teeth
whitening, wisdom tooth extractions, and full mouth reconstruction.
Completes essential lab tasks including physical and digital impressions, dental model fabrication, radiography, and more.
Leads initial patient assessment, procures essential medical history, relays necessary patient information and diagnostics to the doctor, and provides detailed follow-up care instructions to each patient.

Bridging Clinical Care and Public Health

Multidisciplinary Health Innovator

Combining hands-on healthcare experience with advanced studies in epidemiology and biomedical sciences, I bring a unique perspective to population health challenges. My background spans clinical practice, community outreach, and data-driven research, equipping me to develop innovative solutions for complex health issues. Committed to improving health outcomes and reducing disparities, I leverage diverse skills in patient care, team leadership, and analytical thinking to drive impactful public health initiatives.

Innovating Health, Impacting Lives

Thank you

I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my diverse healthcare experience and innovative approach can contribute to your team's success.