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The Science World building on False Creek is an iconic part of Vancouver’s skyline, but the projects happening within those curved walls are making a mark province-wide. Science and technology will play a crucial role in the future health and prosperity of BC and Science World is investing in that future with innovative, inspiring programs. “We need to develop the science leaders of tomorrow,” says Science World CEO Bryan Tisdall. That means creating a more science literate community.
“The way you reach people is by making science and technology meaningful in their lives,” says Tisdall. “It’s not just about test tubes and labs—it’s clean water, it’s the chairs we sit in, the video games we play.” Providing hands-on experiences for visitors and interacting with them in engaging ways—both physically and mentally—are the key components to reaching an audience of all ages. Science World’s creative programming invites visitors to get involved, from the Science World After Dark events, to evening presentations done in conjunction with groups like TRIUMF and Genome BC.
It’s these collaborations that have Tisdall particularly excited about Science World’s future.
In recent years, Science World has partnered with organizations that are also passionate about promoting science and technology—like research universities, the BC Technology Industry Association and the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists—to develop the Science Charter of BC, which was created to foster coherence and collaboration amongst organizations involved in science promotion. “We’re much more than a way to spend a rainy Sunday afternoon on False Creek,” Tisdall notes. Science World reaches out to communities all across the province, working with local organizations (Nanaimo’s Science and Sustainability Society and Abbotsford EcoDairy) to combine Science World’s experience and storytelling skills with local knowledge and credibility.
Though Science World is a not-for-profit organization—85% of its revenue is earned revenue, with no governmental subsidies or support—they’re passionate about collaborating with like-minded companies in all sectors to get the public engaged with science and technology, and to contribute to the health and prosperity of the province. “We’re a business like any other, but our goal is not to increase shareholder value—it’s to pursue our mission.”