An Introduction to Dirigo Science Connection
After 20 years of working as a marine scientist, Chris Payne decided to pivot. Adding to his Bachelor of Science in marine biology from the University of New England, he earned a Master of Science in Leadership from Northeastern University—with a focus on bringing professional development opportunities to science organizations.
Fueled with a passion to help science professionals build their leadership skills and enhance relationships throughout the scientific community, Chris founded Dirigo Science Connection.
What Do We Do?
Simply put, Dirigo Science Connection provides leadership consulting for science professionals.
We offer coaching, guidance, and expert training to leaders from the executive level downward to help create safer, more efficient workspaces. Our services address the importance of proper feedback, accountability, communication, and collaboration. We design our programs around each client’s specific needs to improve workplace morale, employee retention, and scientific program efficiency. We work around your busy schedule and customize learning opportunities for management and staff to help strengthen your scientific leadership skills.
Science alone is a challenging, stressful environment filled with countless pressures to continually break ground and move progress forward. Within this environment, scientists are often put into positions of leadership when they may not be ready for it. To help alleviate the stress of taking on such a new, large responsibility, we recommend incorporating leadership training to strengthen those interpersonal skills.
We recognize that the technical and research sides of the work are, and should be, your priority. But, consequently, the people operations often get put on the backburner. By incorporating leadership development training into your already established routine, your commitment to growth will establish a better workplace for everyone within your organization.
Where Does the Name Come From?
“Dirigo” is the Maine state motto, meaning “I lead” or “I direct” in Latin. As our company is based out of South Portland, Maine, the word deeply resonates with our company, and our purpose. We notice it’s a common word used by many businesses around the state, but one we think is incredibly fitting to our organization and speaks to the essence of what we do.
“Science Connection” was a carefully chosen phrase as well. Although we are a consulting company, we are here to create connections throughout the scientific community. One of the biggest goals for Dirigo Science Connection is to bring scientists together to introduce each other to the countless number of resources that are available to them. We want to extend beyond the local community in South Portland and connect scientists all over the world.
How Can We Help You?
If your team or company is experiencing high turnover rates, low morale, limited trust or unnecessary conflict, Dirigo Science Connection can help. These types of issues can create toxic work environments, which can in turn lead to limited production, confusion, and inconsistent results. It may seem easier to ignore these red flags instead of taking steps to improve them, but putting in the work to create a more positive work environment will pay dividends in the long run. Our training programs incorporate ways to build trust, create a safe work environment, and provide autonomy and connection within your team.
We also provide public speaking support for scientists that are preparing for presentations or just want to get more comfortable speaking in front of their team. Public speaking skills improve your confidence, professionalism, and preparation for situations where you are representing all the hard work you and your team has accomplished.
When leaders aren’t sure how to set goals, establish protocols, provide feedback, or hold their teams accountable for their work, Dirigo Science Connection will work with you to create a process that fits your team. These types of leadership logistics create an efficient workflow that eliminates confusion and sets teams up for success.
Contact us today to find out how Dirigo Science Connection can help strengthen your communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills to increase morale, retention, and trust amongst your team and throughout your organization.
