WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. — The New England Air Museum will have a new executive director starting June 1, 2021: Stephanie Abrams, who succeeds the current executive director, Debbie Reed, who is retiring after more than 31 years with the museum.
A principal of AbramsMediaWorks, Abrams helps non-profit organizations, entertainment venues, and major content companies increase their audiences through digital marketing campaigns, creative content, and leveraging new technologies, including augmented reality.
Her work has included assignments with major aerospace companies including Pratt & Whitney, Sikorsky, and Engine Alliance, among others, according to museum officials.
“Stephanie’s experience at building audiences will be an important focus of the New England Air Museum going forward,” said Bob Stangarone, chairman of the board and president of the museum. “Our new strategic plan will incorporate many new initiatives focusing on restoring, preserving, and displaying our vast collection, as well as new education programs to attract and inspire the next generation of aviation professionals.”
“Debbie has been the museum’s longest serving employee, going from part-time cashier to executive director during her tenure. She has been part of it all,” Stangarone said. “We thank her for her many contributions shaping and developing the museum to what it is today.”
The New England Air Museum is the largest aviation museum in New England with three hangars, outdoor exhibits, and more than 100 aircraft ranging from early airships and flying machines to supersonic jets and helicopters. Located next to Bradley International Airport (KBDL), the New England Air Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday for the remainder of the year.