Docent Training coming in September!

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).

Military experience is NOT a pre-requisite! The docent team welcomes any/all who are eager to learn about naval aviation and are open to the time commitment.

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

Next training will be held Sept 21-Nov 16th. Deadline to apply is August 1st.

Training includes eight consecutive Mondays 8 am-1pm, plus an additional morning each week. There are options to make up a Monday class as long as it isn’t the first or last in the series. There will also be a short pre-class Zoom meeting on the Monday prior to class start.

Please Note: Docent training is free but does require an application and screening process. (*see link below)

Curriculum includes all aspects of ship familiarization, exhibits, history and interpersonal skills.

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.

BENEFITS include: museum guest privileges, generous discounts at cafe and gift shop in addition to frequent give-aways and annual recognition dinner.

"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.

• In order to be considered, please fill out the application here

https://www.midway.org/volunteer-post/docent-tour-guide-volunteer

Copy and Paste this link for an informative article on our Docents!

https://sandiegoveteransmagazine.com/the-making-of-a-midway-docent/?utm_source=3+-+Volunteer+List&utm_campaign=e67d28a91c-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_04_04_08_09&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-e67d28a91c-68026733

Watch our video to learn more: Volunteer starring Chappie