The new executive director of the Central BC Railway and Forestry Museum was born and educated in France.
Baptiste Marcere was born and educated in France, earning himself a master's degree in environmental sciences. He has been living in Canada for 15 years and he and his wife have been in Prince George for close to a year.
Marcere steps into the role Katherine Carlson recently left after 11 years as she moves to another non-profit as the executive office of the Canadian Homebuilders' Association of Northern BC.
Marcere has extensive experience in the museum sector, serving as executive director for La Maison Gabrielle-Roy in Winnipeg and the North Peace Cultural Centre in Fort St. John.
Marcere said he has a passion for both the industry and the museum itself as he has lots of ideas and plans for 2025.
One event he is particularly looking forward to is Winterfest on Feb. 15. There are plans to set up a train for attendees to explore although the details aren't finalized.
He is also looking to boost engagement among students at the University of Northern BC and the College of New Caledonia with trade programs to get them more involved in the museum and the outdoors.
Marcere plans to increase progress on the restoration of museum items this year.
“I know we do have some challenges with protecting our items, protecting the cars, protecting the trains," he said. “So we'll have to find a different way of restoring and presenting the best items to the public.”
Marcere also is looking to engage and communicate with local First Nations communities as well.
“I would also love to contact and to have better, and more profound communication with First Nations and Lheidli T'enneh in particular," he said.
Learn more about the museum at pgrfm.bc.ca.
