Mr. Makowka joined the Center for Health Technology & Innovation at the American Heart Association in June of 2022 as a Program Director. In this role, he manages the Center’s relationships with member companies within the Center’s Innovators’ Network and works on strategic opportunities both internally and externally to the AHA.

Mr. Makowka joined American Heart Association Ventures in December of 2024. As Program Director, Platform and Ecosystem, Jeff helps to support the impact and success of Heart Ventures’ portfolio companies. Starting in the American Heart Association’s Center for Health Technology & Innovation (CHTI) in June of 2022 as a Program Director. Jeff was instrumental in strengthening member relationships and supporting the growth of our Innovators’ Network from 15 members to over 55 in the span of two years. He was responsible for driving meaningful collaborations that have greatly increased the Associations’ impact in health technology innovation.  Jeff has also played a pivotal leadership role in the annual CHTI Health Tech Competition and Health Innovation Pavilion at AHA’s Scientific Sessions Conference. His ability to bring together innovators, judges and partners has elevated the competition into one of the most highly anticipated events at Scientific Sessions.