august 1, 2025
Elias Ramos-Solis, Experience Designer at the Science Museum of Minnesota (SMM), shares, “I'm responsible for visualizing, rendering, and setting the design direction for exhibits. My goal is to create immersive environments that encourage learning, exploration, empathy, and critical thinking through compelling storytelling.”
“While our exhibits department is based in Saint Paul, our reach extends far beyond the city, the metropolitan area, the region, and even the country. The SMM is uniquely positioned to create exhibits that impact millions of people, all originating from our home in Downtown Saint Paul.”
What Elias loves about Downtown is, “That it's a place for connection—I hope that the work I make for SMM helps strengthen connections people have with their friends, family, and even strangers. In these turbulent times, I think that's what people need more of: a deeper connection and community with one another.”
Elias looks towards the future, "Working at the Science Museum offers all sorts of exciting opportunities. We know that museums across the country are eager to enter a new era of exciting, forward-thinking, and inclusive experiences. I'm thrilled to consider the possibilities the Museum can employ to enrich not only itself but Downtown Saint Paul as a whole."
Elias easily shares his fave spot, "Rice Park, by far. It's an easy place to eat lunch and hang with my cohort! I love how it changes with the seasons too; the view of historic buildings like The Library and The Landmark Center are quintessentially Saint Paul."
When I asked him how Saint Paul can be better Elias cut to the chase, "More food trucks. Always more food trucks."
Elias makes the world better, "My work is where I find a good dose of fulfillment. The most exciting part of my job is seeing visitors, especially the youngest ones, show excitement, a desire to learn, curiosity, and joy when they interact with the spaces we design at SMM. Seeing that firsthand and knowing I had a small role in those moments brings me a tremendous amount of happiness and excitement because I know that the role SMM plays in our community is a vital one and I'm just thankful that I get to play a small role in that. I really do believe in my core that institutions, like museums and discovery centers, make our communities stronger."
Elias! I loved meeting you and learning about your Saint Paul Story! And I absolutely agree, institutions like museums are integral to The American Experience we all deserve. I'll look forward to seeing you in Rice Park at a food truck one day soon.