EXP Leadership Team
John Carney
Founder & Creative Director
With a distinguished 40-year career as a museum designer, entrepreneur, and visionary, John has contributed to over 500 museum exhibitions, ranging from intimate displays to expansive 100,000-square-foot showcases. His projects have covered diverse topics such as the environment, history, culture, science, and art. John's notable clients include the National Aquarium of Taiwan, the Smithsonian Institution, the National Institutes of Health, the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry, the National Holocaust Museum, the Experience Music Project, Antwerp Zoo, and the American Jazz Museum. His work has attracted over a billion visitors across all 50 states and in regions including Asia, South America, Canada, Europe, and the Caribbean.
John is the founder of EXP Studios and co-founder of Visitor Metrics, its sister company. His contributions have earned him awards of excellence from the New Art Director’s Guild, the American Alliance of Museums, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, SEGD, and IDSA. While studying at the Rhode Island School of Design, John embraced the principles of sustainable, empathetic, and holistic design. He is a strong advocate for the role of informal learning centers as crucial intellectual and economic drivers within our local and global communities.
Alex Nussdorfer
VP of Visitor Metrics & Business Operations
Alexandra Nussdorfer is the Vice President of Business Operations and Visitor Metrics at EXP Studios. With a business degree from Bentley University and over a decade of experience in marketing, sales, and customer success, she ensures efficiency and effectiveness in all projects. Alexandra's expertise lies in creating engaging, data-driven visitor experiences. As a former collegiate lacrosse player, she brings a unique perspective on teamwork and dedication to her role, fostering a collaborative environment within the organization.
Alex is dedicated to leveraging visitor metrics to enhance exhibit experiences. She employs advanced data analysis techniques to understand visitor behavior and preferences, ensuring that each exhibit resonates with its audience. Her innovative approach to visitor engagement helps in creating tailored experiences that not only educate but also captivate diverse audiences. By integrating these insights into exhibit design and operations, Alex plays a pivotal role in driving the success of EXP Studios' projects.
Shaun McCauley
VP Experience Designer
Shaun McCauley is a seasoned graphic designer at EXP Studios with a rich background in developing visual elements. His expertise lies in exploring and implementing graphic design solutions that are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Shaun's deep understanding of visual communication and branding enables him to create impactful designs that resonate with target audiences and enhance the overall visitor experience.
At EXP Studios, Shaun's role involves collaborating closely with clients to understand their vision and requirements. He integrates cutting-edge design techniques with practical fabrication methods to deliver high-quality visual elements that enhance the aesthetic and functional aspects of exhibits. Shaun's dedication to excellence and his meticulous attention to detail make him an invaluable asset to the team, ensuring that each project is completed to the highest standards and contributes to the firm's reputation for delivering outstanding exhibit solutions.
The Innovators Behind The Magic
Jackson Gleason
Digital Builder
Jackson Gleason is a skilled digital builder specializing in creating 3D digital and physical models for museum exhibits. His expertise lies in translating design concepts into detailed and immersive models, enhancing the visitor experience. Jackson excels in both digital modeling and physical fabrication, ensuring that models accurately reflect the exhibit's vision. His strong background in 3D design, digital fabrication, and project management allows him to deliver high-quality, on-time results. Jackson's collaborative approach with designers and curators ensures that each model effectively communicates the intended message and contributes to a compelling and engaging museum experience.
Galen Morris
Industrial Design
Galen Morris, a distinguished RISD graduate and current faculty member, excels as an interdisciplinary designer at EXP Studios. He effectively utilizes a global network of manufacturing partners to drive product success through industry-standard methods. With expertise in leadership, design strategy, and mechanical systems, Galen emphasizes clear communication and exceptional quality. His professional experience includes roles as Product Designer II at OCTO, Adjunct Professor in "Designing in SolidWorks" at RISD, Product Designer/Design Engineer at Dexai Robotics, Technical Graphic Designer at igus Inc., and Digital Design Contractor at Brown University. His diverse background underscores his commitment to innovative design solutions.
Dave Unger, PhD
Content Curator
Dave Unger is a writer, public historian, and educator dedicated to using museums and history to foster community, enhance civic engagement, and envision a better future. With a PhD in the History of Science from Harvard University, Dave has led projects at the American Textile History Museum, the Museum of History and Industry, and Harvard’s Collection of Scientific Instruments. He teaches multimedia storytelling and radical labor history at Harvard. Notable exhibitions include "Measuring Difference: Race and Science," "Seattle Style: Fashion and Function," and "Color Revolution: Style Meets Science in the 1960s." His work explores the intersection of history, science, and community.
Nate Rassmusson
Exhibit Installer
Nate is a seasoned exhibit installer with a strong track record in the successful assembly and installation of museum and gallery exhibits. His expertise includes handling intricate setups, managing logistics, and ensuring precise placement of exhibit components. Nate is adept at coordinating with designers and curators to bring creative visions to life while adhering to strict timelines and safety standards. His hands-on experience with a wide range of materials and installation techniques, combined with excellent problem-solving skills, ensures high-quality results for every project. Nate's dedication to attention to detail and his ability to troubleshoot on-site challenges make him an invaluable asset to any exhibition team.
Brandon Terrien
Director of Fabrication
Brandon is a designer and inventor who expertly manages complex production timelines for the EXP Studios fabrication shop, including overseeing the operation and maintenance of advanced CNC machinery. His role ensures precise execution and timely delivery of projects that seamlessly blend technology with design. Drawing from his off-grid farm experience and background in landscape architecture, Brandon’s focus on business aspects like market fit and manufacturability, combined with his proactive attitude and quick learning ability, makes him a crucial asset to any design team. Notable projects include work at the Paul Revere Heritage Site, Jones Beach State Park, the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, and the American Museum of Natural History, among others.
Sara Kriz
Graphic Art Director
Sara Kriz is a Rhode Island-based graphic designer with over two decades of experience in print and exhibit design. Her career includes notable roles at Joseph A. Wetzel Associates and Amaze Design in Boston, where she contributed to museum and visitor center projects. Sara has expanded her expertise to include print and identity design. She earned her BFA in Graphic Design from Rochester Institute of Technology. Her recent projects include interpretive signage for the American Writers Museum and Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport, and ongoing work with Barrington Preservation Society and Walker Farm.
Nick Hamelburg
Media/UX Design
Nick specializes in multimedia design, production, programming, and A/V hardware integration. Since joining EXP Studios in 2017, he has seamlessly applied his extensive media knowledge to the museum and education sectors. Nick designs and develops a range of interactive touchscreens, from small units to large 70” screens, ensuring a cohesive visual experience. He has also created orientation theater films for Battleship Cove, America’s Fleet Museum, Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Visitor Center, and the Martha’s Vineyard Museum. His expertise includes voice-over narration, animations, closed captioning, website development, sound design, and large-scale projections.
Erika Whitworth
Educator
Erika holds a Master’s in Education and teaching certification from Harvard University and a BS in Engineering from Boston University. Since joining Mass Audubon in 2000 as a teacher-naturalist, she has educated diverse audiences on natural history through various programs. Erika excels in developing curriculum and interpretive displays, including setting up a new urban visitor center to engage communities with limited access to nature. Passionate about vernal pools and aquatic life, she serves on the board of the Vernal Pool Association. Erika is dedicated to encouraging outdoor exploration and fostering a love for nature to aid in protecting our natural resources.
Rebecca Fox
E-Learning Director
Rebecca is the E-Learning Director at EXP Studios, where she leads the development and implementation of innovative digital learning solutions. With extensive experience in instructional design and e-learning technology, Rebecca excels in creating engaging, interactive content that enhances user learning experiences. Her role involves overseeing course design, integrating multimedia elements, and ensuring accessibility and usability across various platforms. Rebecca's expertise includes curriculum development, learner assessment, and data analysis to refine educational outcomes. Her strategic vision and commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology ensure that EXP Studios delivers impactful and effective e-learning experiences. Her leadership drives continuous improvement and excellence in digital education.
