Our Docents (tour guides) at the USS Midway Museum interface with the public and provide a personal touch to the Midway's self-guided audio tour of the museum. Being a docent is probably one of the most rewarding experiences a volunteer can encounter as you witness positive reactions of visitors to informative and personal presentations. Share the ship's history on an informal basis (no scripts).
Opportunity Requirements & Important Notes
Minimum Requirements:
- Strong interpersonal skills with a preferred background in public speaking and/or education and with the ability to communicate information clearly and concisely are important qualifications for this position.
- Personal traits of timeliness, reliability and diplomacy are expected.
- Prior military service is a plus, but not essential. Prospective volunteers must be at least 18 years of age, able to climb ship's ladders and stand/walk for periods of up to 4 hours.
Training Provided:
Training will be hold for 8 weeks on Mondays plus one additional morning.
Curriculum includes all aspects of ship familiarization, exhibits, history and interpersonal skills. After completing classroom study, 20 hours of "on the job" training with a docent mentor is required before successfully completing a walk-through with a docent leader.
Duties & Commitment:
As a docent graduate, you will give brief, informal talks to groups at various locations throughout the ship. All activities are under the direction of the Chief Docent and daily operations are delegated to a Docent of the Watch who makes various daily shift assignments.
After completion of the above requirements and receiving a "yellow hat," a minimum of 20 hours per month is required. Scheduling is flexible with shifts available 7 days a week; shifts are 4 hours each in the am or pm with occasional frequent opportunities to assist at private evening events.
Choose "docents" from the drop-down choices on the application.
"I find the camaraderie with the rest of the docents to be very positive. The Docents are a respected group on the Midway and integral to the success of the Museum. A great group with whom to work!"
-Midway Volunteer
About the USS Midway Museum
The USS Midway Museum's mission is to preserve the historic USS Midway and the legacy of those who serve, inspire and educate future generations, and entertain their museum guests. Their vision is to be America's living symbol of Freedom.