Dear Friends, Colleagues, and Community Members,

 

As I sit down to write this, I am struck by how the Wonder Institute has evolved from a spark of an idea into a vital piece of civic infrastructure for Jackson Hole. Looking back on the past two years, I am filled with gratitude.

 

What began as a dream has blossomed into a vibrant hub where curiosity has finally found a home.

In a place defined by natural beauty and an independent spirit, we recognized a quiet but growing disconnection. Too much of life happens through screens, and many in our community lack the chance to solve real problems with their own hands. We envisioned a space that would bridge these gaps, and today I can confidently say we are achieving that vision by democratizing access to innovation tools.

​

Our work is no longer just a series of projects; it is a model for integrated impact designed to create lasting systems change in our valley. We have organized this mission into four core pillars that ensure every person has a real path forward:

​

• WonderLabs: We have opened professional-grade tools that were previously "locked" behind private doors. From our Community Woodshop to the WonderLab and Recording Studio @ Teton County Library (TCLIB), we provide the "assistance beyond the grant" that allows neighbors to build what they couldn't do alone.

• Wonder Schools: Through our partnerships with the Teton County School District and independent schools across the valley, we are bringing practical arts back into K-12 education. We help students discover confidence and purpose through maker curriculum and teacher training, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to design and create.

• Wonder Pathways: We are building a robust education-to-career pipeline. By linking classroom learning to real-world skills through partnerships with Dick Anderson Construction, Central Wyoming College, and local businesses, we ensure that students have a clear next step toward economic autonomy and meaningful careers right here in the valley.

• Wonder Incubators: We are supporting local "maker businesses," like Rip N Stitch, providing the space, tools, and mentorship needed for local ideas to grow into sustainable ventures.

• ​

Our collaborations reflect what is possible when we prioritize community-led solutions. Whether it is working with Wyoming Indian High School on robotics and NASA HUNCH programming or partnering with the Teton Raptor Center to connect making with environmental education, these are reflections of our collective potential.

As we look ahead, we are just beginning to scale our impact. Our "opportunity filter" remains simple: Does it involve making? Does it serve the Jackson Hole community? And does it spark the joy of creation?

​

We invite you to help us build what school should be. Whether you support a Big Build to fund our new Education Center at South Park Loop or contribute as a Studio Champion, your investment ensures that talent can grow here in Jackson, not just visit.

​

Thank you for believing that wonder is not a distant adventure, but something we create together through skill, purpose, and belonging.

 

With sincere gratitude,

 

Gary Duquette, Director, Wonder Institute