The word docent, derived from the Latin word docere, means “to teach”—and teaching is precisely what docents do best. Docent tour guides are an essential resource at The Museum of Flight. They are trained volunteers who study and become experts in specific exhibits and aircraft around the museum. We ensure all our docents are passionate, approachable, and full of incredible knowledge!
Docents interact with visitors, answer questions, conduct aviation and space-related talks, give amazing tours, and may be given the opportunity to present school programs.
Through The Museum of Flight Docent Program, volunteers like you can become fully trained docents.
Docent shift availability depends upon the Museum's current needs.
Training Information
Our 12-week Docent training includes an in-depth study of the Museum's exhibits and history, presentation skills and field trips to applicable sites. To graduate, you must pass a 50-question test, perform a 30-minute Museum tour and not miss more than two classes.
The application process includes a group interview with the Volunteer Program Manager, Docent Program Supervisor and a member of the Docent Training Committee.
Requirements:
- You must have excellent communication skills.
- You must have teaching or public speaking experience.
- You must be passionate about working with diverse groups of children, adults, staff and volunteers.
- You must have the ability to accept supervision and evaluation of your volunteer work.
- You must be 21 years of age or older.
Schedule and Fees
The next Docent Training Class will take place in 2024.
The 12-week course starts on the first Saturday in March, with weekly classes every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. For those interested in becoming a Docent, we recommend volunteering in another position to become more familiar with the Museum and the program while you wait for the 2024 class.
- Materials Fee: $25
For more information, please email Docents@museumofflight.org.
