Courtesy photos American Precision Museum
Vermont Business Magazine Community and manufacturing leaders from throughout VT and NH gathered at the American Precision Museum in Windsor Wednesday night to celebrate the launch of a new vision for the future of APM. Over 75 guests joined APM board and staff for a presentation of the museum's new strategic plan, the opportunity to explore current collections, and provide input on initial concepts for historical preservation plans, new interactive, exhibit designs, expanded STEM+M (science, technology, engineering, mathematics + manufacturing) education and career awareness programming and much more.
Speakers at the event included APM Board Chair Lee Morris, Co-Executive Director Steve Dalessio, longtime supporter and funder Sarah Huskey of the Farley Family Charitable Foundation, and APM’s new Co-Executive Director Greg DeFrancis. Greg, who joined the APM staff in September, brings over 35 years of STEM education and museum development experience to the organization from a range of institutions, including MIT and the Montshire Museum.
His experience in leading complex education initiatives with multiple partners and stakeholders and work in visitor experience design and program evaluation is a perfect complement to Co-Executive Director Dalessio’s expertise in the history of the evolution of manufacturing technologies from the mid-19th century to the present day exhibited in the Museum’s galleries and work in advanced manufacturing and workforce development needs.
Steve Dalessio says, “I am excited to share the leadership role of APM with Greg. The expertise Greg brings to the museum is essential to achieving our Strategic Goals.”
In addition to a quick overview of the illustrious history of the American Precision Museum and Precision Valley, speakers shared highlights from the Museum’s current offerings, including highlights from one the nation's largest collection of precision machine tools, and the wildly successful STEM+M Pathways kit program that distributes free stem kits to fourth, fifth and sixth grade classrooms throughout Vermont and New Hampshire, targeting schools in under resourced districts.
Greg DeFrancis shared key components of APM’s new strategic plan including refreshed mission and vision statements, organizational values and strategic goals.
MISSION STATEMENT VISION STATEMENT
We engage audiences in the stories of human ingenuity through the lens of manufacturing —learning from yesterday, exploring today, and imagining tomorrow. All will feel inspired, capable, and welcomed to participate as problem solvers and innovators to help make a positive difference in the world.
“Prior to joining the Museum, I had the privilege of working with the Board, staff, and partners developing a new strategic plan. The plan is informed by the Museum’s previous planning work and SWOT analysis, but as importantly, through a deeply inclusive process of listening sessions and interviews with over 100 people — community leaders, educators, historic preservationists, partners in advanced manufacturing and career development, and other stakeholders. We now have a road map for the next five years that is ambitious and bold, and will guide our work as we create new visitor and educational experiences that are relevant, inclusive, and impactful. There is a great need for our work—from sharing the story of Precision Valley to welcoming all to become the next generation of innovators, creators, and makers. I’m thrilled to be joining the APM team at this moment to help bring this new vision to life,” said DeFrancis.
Co-Executive Director Greg DeFrancis
The leadership team at APM invited guests and community members to get involved and help make the new vision a reality. Lee Morris, APM Board Chair and Chairman of the Morris Group of Windsor, CT, shared, “I have been involved with the American Precision Museum for many years and while I am incredibly proud of this museum and how much it has accomplished over the years, I have never been more excited about the potential for positive impact on community, region and nation. I am hoping those learning about APM and its new vision are inspired and excited to help support APM to achieve its vision for the future.”
To get involved, visit https://americanprecision.org/getinvolved/.
About American Precision Museum
The American Precision Museum inspires new generations of innovators by connecting immersive programming with the rich history of manufacturing in America. Housed in a National Historic Landmark building, the Museum's 4,000 square foot exhibit space, education programs, events, and online resources explore the evolution of manufacturing technology – past, present and future. Learn more at https://americanprecision.org/
Source: 10.12.2023. WINDOR, VT - American Precision Museum
