WBI Statement on Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

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UPDATED: March 18, 2020

The President of the United States, the Governor of Ohio, and the numerous local mayors have declared states of emergency in response to the coronavirus pandemic.  Many organizations have closed, and activities have been cancelled in order to limit and delay mass exposure to the virus.

The general WBI policy for closures is based on that of Wright-Patterson AFB; when they close, we close.  That policy was established in order to accommodate operational situations such as snow days. However, WBI’s business model is largely based on face-to-face meetings and group collaboration, the very things that are under restriction during the coronavirus pandemic.

The safety of our customers, visitors and the WBI workforce remains our primary concern at this time.  Although we have taken unprecedented actions to minimize the exposure of our workforce, our continued operation places our team and our customers at increased risk and is inconsistent with official directives being applied to similar organizations and activities.  We are committed to being thought leaders in our ecosystem and for our clients, and today that means we must make the difficult decision to temporarily cease all in-person operations.

Effective March 19, 2020, WBI will close all facilities, with certain exceptions, determined on a case-by-case basis. Facilities will remain closed until further notice, based on the status of the coronavirus pandemic.  While this affects meetings held in those facilities, much of WBI’s work will continue in a virtual capacity.  As the situation changes, we will issue updated information.

If you believe you have a legitimate exception, that complies with current executive orders outlined by the Ohio Governor’s office, please contact our Springfield St or 444 E. Second Street operations teams. 

Original posted March 10, 2020:

Wright Brothers Institute is committed to the health and safety of their employees, as well as the thousands of annual visitors to its three facilities. Following yesterday’s ‘State of Emergency’ declaration from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, WBI recognizes that there may be uncertainty surrounding upcoming events at WBI facilities. Currently (3/10/2020) WBI has no intention of closing or cancelling planned, face-to-face engagements. However, Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an evolving, global situation, and WBI is prepared to adapt in order to ensure human safety with limited work disruption. 

WBI follows the same guidance as Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB) regarding emergency events and inclement weather. The same approach will be taken regarding the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). For example, if WPAFB provides directives for personnel that are returning from ‘Red Zones’, (areas where the World Health Organization has determined a significant number of the population have become infected with Coronavirus disease and are instructed to self-quarantine), WBI will follow suit.

Handwashing instructions have been placed in facility bathrooms to remind visitors about proper techniques. Our cleaning staff will continue to make every effort to ensure sanitary environments for our employees, customers, and visitors.

If an event cancellation is necessary, WBI will make every effort to reschedule, as soon as possible.

If you have questions, please contact:

Springfield St. operations@wbi-innovates.com

444 E. Second St. wbi444@wbi-innovates.com

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