Omaha STEM Ecosystem’s Julie Sigmon – Kiewit Luminarium Connection
Julie Sigmon’s introduction to the Heritage Foundation and the Exploratorium began in April 2019. Several meetings were held with various sectors in Omaha to lay the groundwork of what the new Kiewit Luminarium Center should offer in regard to exhibits and impact on STEM education. Julie Sigmon and Derrick Nero were a part of that meeting.
In July of 2019, Derrick and Julie were invited to the Exploratorium in San Francisco, to work with their design team in identifying key exhibits that would resonate in the Omaha Center. Following that trip, they met regularly with the design team (HDR/Kiewit Luminarium) and the Exploratorium team to refine the exhibits and design of the building. Key topics of on-going meetings included: What is the message? (STEM skills are critical for future workforce and vibrant community). Do building elements reflect engagement? Who is the audience? How does the audience connect with community partners after leaving the museum? (continuum of learning).
When Rachel Jacobson was identified as the new Executive Director for Heritage, June 2020, she expanded the advisory group, which continues to guide the mission and outreach and work closely with the Exploratorium on exhibit designs.
Recently, Julie has been working closely with Rachel and the Exploratorium team as they conduct research on ways to engage our community partners. For example, Julie connected them to Martha Bruckner, to reach out to educators in regard to field trips, i.e., is there always a purpose, just for fun, expectation of learning, etc. In addition, Julie has connected them to varied science center partners for similar research on the best way to utilize their role in the community.
The new Executive Director for Kiewit Luminarium will be announced in May/June 2021, and Julie hopes to continue her advisory role with them.