Innovation Lab Transformation
Transforming our Heritage Hall and Education Center (HHEC) into an engaging educational environment! Thanks to the invaluable support of The Berry Family Foundation, National Aviation Heritage Alliance, The Kettering Fund, Cirrus, Garmin, College Advantage and many individual donors, our Joe Clark Innovation Lab is open and buzzing with activity.
Transforming Vision into Reality
With generous community support, we successfully completed the second phase of our transformation project, culminating in the creation of a 1,600 sq. ft. immersive innovation lab. This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision, resulting in a creative space that engages, educates, and inspires our nearly 400,000 annual visitors.
The Initial Stages: Planning and Laying Foundations
Planning and Design
The journey began with meticulous planning and layout design. Emily, our talented Innovation Lab Designer, mapped out the lab’s footprint, ensuring efficient utilization of space to create an engaging environment for visitors.
Uncovering Hidden Treasures
As we delved into the past, we made several exciting discoveries. One of the most notable finds was a Pratt & Whitney working model of a jet engine. This intricate piece is now a central feature of the “petting zoo” within the Innovation Lab, allowing visitors to get hands-on with aviation technology.
Additionally, while sorting through books and artifacts, we uncovered an album of original photos, including several of Amelia Earhart. These treasures connect us deeply with aviation legends and enrich the visitor experience.
Structural Changes and Enhancements
Plumbing and Infrastructure
Significant structural changes were necessary to accommodate the new lab. This included precise excavation for plumbing to install a sink, ensuring functionality for demonstrations and clean-up.
We also saw the removal of the banners that once hung high above the Hall. Viewing these banners up close was a stark contrast and an exciting step in our renovation process.
Deck and Display Work
Volunteer Efforts
Volunteer efforts were crucial throughout the process. Dick Palmer worked diligently on the aircraft carrier deck, brightening the numbers and center lines, ensuring the exhibit remains a highlight for visitors.
We also focused on organizing and cleaning our media shelves, archiving our extensive collection of films and tapes, preserving our media resources for future generations.
Bringing the Vision to Life
Final Touches and Enhancements
As the structural work neared completion, we turned our attention to the finishing touches. This included installing drywall, painting, and setting up the new glass installations. The vibrant new colors and clean lines brought a fresh and dynamic feel to the lab.
New display cases were installed, housing exhibits about the Collier Trophy and interactive “Forces of Flight” displays. These cases are designed to engage visitors and provide hands-on learning experiences.
Innovation Lab Highlights
The new space is a vibrant, modern hub that sparks curiosity and invites exploration. Key features include:
- Flexible Space: Designed for younger students to engage with our curriculum.
- Powered Worktables: Seven portable worktables for group projects and experiments, from paper airplanes to model rockets.
- Design Studio: Equipped with scanners and 3D printers for older students to pursue individualized learning and design projects.
- Aviation Petting Zoo: A rotating collection of aviation materials for hands-on discovery.
- Idea Pad: A quiet nook with beanbags and a glass wall for brainstorming and problem-solving.
The Grand Unveiling
The journey culminated in the unveiling of the Joe Clark Innovation Lab. With signs up, displays built, and everything in place, we were ready to reopen to the public. The grand opening was a celebration of hard work, dedication, and the spirit of innovation that drives the NAHF.
Looking Forward
The Innovation Lab at the NAHF is more than just a new exhibit; it’s a space where history and innovation collide, providing an immersive experience for all who visit. We are excited to welcome visitors to explore, learn, and be inspired by the pioneers of aviation and the cutting-edge technology that continues to propel the industry forward.
Thank you to everyone who supported us throughout this journey. We look forward to seeing you at the NAHF and sharing the wonders of aviation history and innovation.
Visit us at: 1100 Spaatz Street, Dayton, Ohio 45433
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Contact us: Phone: 937-256-0944 Email: [email protected]