KYLE MURPHYStaff Writer

A new year means new changes at the Hands-On Science Center (HOSC) as Austin Sisco has been named the new Executive Director.

In a statement, Sisco said the science center is entering a transformative chapter as he and the HOSC Board of Directors are committed to breathing new life into the science center.  

“I’m excited,” Sisco said. “I’m thrilled to be on a new chapter with the science center. I’m ready to change the place up and do more STEM orientated and educational things, and I think with the community’s help we can make that happen.” 

Sisco took on the role of Executive Director earlier this month following the resignation of former director Sean Amidon, who took on the role in 2018.

In addition to a new executive director, HOSC also installed new members to its board of directors, which include Dr. Keith DeMell as Chairman of the Board, Kim Burns as Vice Chairman, Deb Bryant as Treasurer, and DJ DeMell as Secretary. The other members of the board include Heather Love-Fleck, John Carver and Dr. Patrick Murphy.

“We are also proud to introduce our new Board of Directors, whose passion and dedication will help unlock HOSC’s full potential in STEM education,” Sisco said. “Their enthusiasm for advancing our mission is a driving force for the future of HOSC.”

As for his vision for HOSC, Sisco said the immediate plan is to give the science center a deep clean and reorganizing the science center. This will include re-envisioning the flow of the center to be friendlier, as well as get rid of exhibits that were not so “hands-on” and not working properly.

In addition, Sisco said he’s working on returning HOSC to its mission to provide STEM education (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) to “transform lives and inspire future innovators.”

“My vision for the place is to make it a STEM learning hub for our region,” Sisco said. “We’re trying to get back to the roots of it, is to become that regional center for STEM education.” 

One of the other big changes will be the number of community and adult events the science center has each year. He added that the seasonal camps will remain in place.

“Getting back to our core mission is what I’m really trying to do,” Sisco said.

While Sisco and the rest of the HOSC board are getting hands on with the new direction, they cannot do it alone, and are asking the community’s support to help make their vision a reality.

Sisco is asking for the community to submit their ideas on future programs, exhibits and ways to enhance the physical space of the science center. Sisco said the science center is also seeking volunteers to assist with programming and other aspects of HOSC.

“Your contribution can make a big difference,” he said.

Those interested in volunteering can stop by the science center during operating hours or email info@hosctn.org. Anyone who wants to submit their input can also email info@hosctn.org.

“What other small town can boast its own science center? Together, we can make the Hands-On Science Center one of the best in the nation, inspiring the next generation and unlocking the full potential of our community,” Sisco said. “Follow us on Facebook at Hands-On Science Center to stay updated on our progress and upcoming events. Join us in this exciting journey!”

The Hands-On Science Center is located at 101 Mitchell Blvd and is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday.