IGNITE, the Saban Center’s interactive STEM with Arts–based learning platform, announces the appointment of Martin S. Fisher as its new Executive Director, effective February 2, 2026.
Fisher joins IGNITE with decades of experience in the science center and museum field, including leadership of Science Central in Fort Wayne, Indiana. His background includes major capital campaigns, new gallery launches, exhibit revitalization, and the establishment of Northeast Indiana’s only public planetarium. His previous positions were with Nauticus, The National Maritime Center (Norfolk, VA), The Omaha Children’s Museum (Omaha, NE), and COSI, Ohio’s Center of Science and Industry (Columbus, OH).
Fisher expressed deep excitement about joining the project:
“I am thrilled to join this project. I am truly impressed with how the Saban Center team and CHOM Board of Directors have worked incredibly hard to lead IGNITE. I am eager to work with them, as well as the other on-site Saban Center partners, the Alabama State STEM Hub and the Tuscaloosa Children’s Theatre, as the Saban Center continues to be constructed. IGNITE will be such an important part of this community.”
As Executive Director, Fisher will oversee the launch of IGNITE’s stateoftheart facility featuring maker spaces, digital media labs, immersive science zones, and handson learning experiences that integrate STEM with the Arts.
He also outlined IGNITE’s short, mid, and longterm goals:
“Short-term is to open IGNITE ensuring that staff are ready, exhibits and systems are working, and all operational plans are in place. Mid-term, we want to continue to provide new experiences. This could include presenting new programs. Long-term, the future could even include expansion efforts such as capital projects.”
Fisher added his vision for visitor impact:
“IGNITE’s visitors will learn basic scientific principles, understand how those concepts connect to their own lives, and most importantly, discover that science is fun and accessible to everyone. Through hands-on exhibits designed to spark curiosity, we work alongside the State of Alabama STEM Hub to expose students to STEM career pathways right here in Alabama.”
IGNITE will celebrate Fisher’s appointment and share a preview of what’s to come during a community engagement event at the River Market in Tuscaloosa on February 24 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The event will offer families, educators, and community members an opportunity to learn more about IGNITE’s mission, explore upcoming experiences, and meet and connect with Martin S. Fisher as he begins his role as Executive Director.
About IGNITE
IGNITE is an interactive STEM with Arts learning environment designed for all ages. Through hands-on, inquiry based experiences that blend science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and the arts, IGNITE sparks curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.
Mission:
IGNITE enhances our community by inspiring curiosity, creativity, and meaningful moments through lifelong learning and interactive experiences in STEM with Arts education—opening opportunities that connect and impact every generation.
Media Contact:
Briana Lipkin
Communications & Public Relations Specialist
blipkin@westervelt.com | (205) 3317509