A Pittsburgh-based operations and strategy executive, Ian Oldaker leads the consulting firm Visitor Experience Solutions, LLC, as owner and operator. He provides museums and visitor attractions with strategic insight that spans operations planning and implementation, including the design of interactive exhibits. Ian Oldaker works with clients in New York City and western Pennsylvania, and is active with the museums and arts industry in his hometown.
Mr. Oldaker’s approach to building successful museum operations reflects a background in theater performance, and he approaches each project from the perspective of what will capture visitors’ attention. He earned his BA in history at Loyola University in Maryland, and completed an MFA in acting at Brooklyn College – CUNY. Participating in numerous student productions, Mr. Oldaker wrote his thesis on Richard Greenberg’s “Three Days of Rain.”
Ian Oldaker’s accomplishments include serving as vice president of operations with the group that opened the 9/11 Memorial in 2011 and launched the 9/11 Memorial Museum in 2014. In 2018, he spearheaded the opening of Spyscape, an interactive museum focused on spies and spycraft, in midtown Manhattan.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My most productive days are based on following a routine. The challenge lies in maintaining the discipline necessary to achieve optimal results. It is crucial to keep the mind clear and avoid mixing work and starting the day. Once the work begins, it is essential to review customer interactions on all B2C paths: what actions occurred during the later hours, whether any staff or customer feedback was received, how revenue was generated, and if there were any significant observations regarding staff morale and performance. Then look at the recent trends that develop from these paths. Typically, this routine review paves the way for focusing on long-term incremental projects related to strategy or future initiatives.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I consistently adhere to three fundamental pillars when it comes to implementation:
• Collaboration: It is essential to have the right team for each project, comprising individuals whose skillsets align with the specific goals and challenges we face.
• Structure: I believe in establishing a clear process or system that enables us to create something innovative and exceptional.
• Room for creativity: I strive to provide my team with the freedom to express their most creative ideas during the problem-solving process
What’s one trend that excites you?
Innovative creative tools are redefining the storytelling capabilities of museums and attractions. Tasks that previously demanded substantial financial and human resources—such as the development of audio tours and interactive exhibits—can now be executed more efficiently, cost-effectively, and with an unprecedented level of detail and precision all on one’s own or with a small team.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
I consistently remind myself of the importance of maintaining simplicity. I frequently encounter challenges involving numerous inputs and perspectives, which can easily overwhelm me with excessive details and exaggerations. It is crucial for me to keep matters straightforward; otherwise, I risk losing my connection with the audience.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would advise my younger self to embrace the potential for failure and consistently be open to taking calculated risks. Your most significant achievements frequently arise from a measure of courage or a willingness to venture beyond your comfort zone. Furthermore, you will gain invaluable insights into success by learning from your failures and the lessons they impart. Therefore, never hesitate to explore risks and tries.
Tell us something you believe that almost nobody agrees with you on.
While digital and AI tools can streamline the development process, I am concerned that they might lead to a mere recycling of information and responses, thereby diminishing our creativity and problem-solving capabilities. Growth and storytelling are inherently tied to addressing the challenges we encounter, and to effectively do so, one must learn to approach problems adeptly. AI provides answers that are not always earned, which is a concern for me.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
I try to prioritize reading physical books over online content, as it is crucial to acknowledge the power of the written word. This practice significantly benefits us as writers. Engaging with diverse literature broadens our knowledge and enhances our problem-solving abilities. I am concerned the art and ability to write well in a professional setting is diminishing, so I want to maintain a high standard.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
When the need arises, I take walks outdoors, which enables me to distance myself from challenges and gain a fresh perspective. This approach allows me to address solutions in the most straightforward manner and broad view possible.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
I have encountered failure numerous times; however, each setback has imparted valuable lessons, leading to successful subsequent attempts. Although I tend to be a perfectionist, I rely on my experiences to inform my actions. Moreover, I am committed to maximizing every opportunity and transforming them into new possibilities. It is important to remember that work begets more work, a principle grounded in both personal relationships and concrete outcomes.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
I encountered a remarkable opportunity but found it challenging to fully immerse myself in it. Upon reflection, I realized that I was too immature—both personally and professionally—to meet that moment. In the office, I was merely replicating solutions from past positions. This insight highlighted the importance of assessing the unique challenges I faced and crafting tailored solutions, rather than imposing answers where they might not fit.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
As career paths have become increasingly fluid and adaptable, I recommend providing full-service, on-demand career counseling as needed. This service should encompass:
• Recruiting and job search opportunities.
• Resume guidance.
• Interview coaching.
• Networking strategies.
• Tailoring approaches to specific opportunities.
By offering a comprehensive, client-focused service, you can effectively assist individuals in finding new career paths.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Canva is an incredible software tool that allows me to create high-quality graphics, word processing documents, and even audio and video content in no time at all. I rely on it to craft documents that effectively connect my ideas with communication. In my experience, Canva is the finest illustrative tool I’ve ever encountered.
What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?
I invested in an executive networking exchange in Pittsburgh, which proved to be highly valuable. I maintain that traditional methods of networking remain the most effective means for establishing new business connections and advancing one’s career.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
The We Study Billionaires podcast offers surprisingly valuable insights into processes and traits that helped make highly successful CEOs and managers who they are. The lessons can be adopted in various scenarios. While the title might suggest that it’s solely a biography show, it goes far beyond that. The podcast delves into trends, as well as personal characteristics of their subjects.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I can hardly wait for Season 5 of Stranger Things! As an ’80s kid, it totally hits all the right nostalgia buttons for me. The production is top-notch, and the storytelling is nothing short of epic. Plus, David Harbour totally knocks it out of the park with his incredible performance!
Key learnings
- Self-awareness of your own abilities is the crucial first step toward building a strong team.
- Embrace failure as a learning opportunity; never hesitate to take risks.
- Eclecticism is beneficial—strive to excel in various areas while mastering one particular skill.
- People are the foundation of business; the more you engage with others, the more successful your business will be.
- Traditional relationship-building methods still hold significant value and strength.