Foss Waterway Seaport - Boat Shop
The Foss Waterway Seaport Museum in Tacoma, WA, caught my attention within the first few days of living in the area. An institution dedicated to preserving and educating on the maritime history of the Puget Sound? I’m game.
Even better, the team was in the middle of enhancing the Heritage Boat Shop in the corner of the facility. Enclosing the boat shop would bring less noise, dust, and opportunities for injuries to guests. All the while, giving the individuals working on the boats better tools, systems, and space to carry out the vision of the community. Speaking of the individuals working in the boat shop, this venture is run completely by volunteers in the community.
I was inspired hearing about these volunteers, and this opportunity for them to enhance their capabilities. So, I reached out to the Foss Waterway Seaport team, pitching to Amber the idea of highlighting the volunteers in their new space so the community can better understand their skills. Amber was kind enough to oblige my desires and the team of volunteers agreed to allow me in their space.
After many months of construction delays, the day had come. I loaded in around 9am, just as the team started their day. Introducing myself, I asked them to simply be themselves, do and act exactly as they would in a normal day of work. I would just move around them, and also asked them to strongly request that I move if I was ever in their way.
One gentleman in particular seemed keen on getting his and the team’s work documented, so he was constantly asking me if I wanted him in a better position or to do something differently. On a few occasions, I would spot a setup at the last minute, just as he was moving on to the next task. I would request him to go back to where he was and he always obliged without hesitation, and thus made my job that much easier.
After ~3 hours of work I had what I needed. I packed up and got out of their way, leaving them to polish off the day’s tasks.
An incredible thanks to Amber and the volunteers for allowing me into your space. It means the world to me when individuals open themselves up to my crazy requests.
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